What happens after the fight is over, but the healing has just begun?

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Melinda Staton, a breast cancer survivor, therapist, Navy veteran, and healer at heart. She opens up about life after the diagnosis, how her trauma-informed work helped her through the darkest days, and what it truly means to reclaim your life when everything changes.

This is a story of faith, resilience, womanhood, and finding your way back home to yourself.
💗 Listen now. You’ll be changed.

On this episode, I’m sharing something deeply personal—my journey with acupuncture and how it helped me heal in ways I never expected. I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Micah Allen, a nationally recognized integrative health leader, licensed Naturopathic Doctor, and Acupuncturist based in Richmond, VA.

Dr. Allen is the owner of Essential Natural Health and has shared her expertise on CBS, ABC, and in countless media outlets. She brings a rare blend of wisdom, science, and compassion to her work, and today, we dive into how acupuncture works, what it treats, and why it may be the missing link in your wellness journey.

Whether you're new to acupuncture or curious about a more holistic approach to health, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and maybe even booking your first session.

In this episode, we explore what it means to build a life of purpose, connection, and adaptability through the lens of an Air Force childhood. Our guest Trish Hill shares how growing up in 10 states and 2 countries shaped her ability to form strong relationships, embrace change, and lead with influence.

Born in Mountain Home, Idaho, and raised in a family with deep military roots, she reflects on the unique experiences of being an Air Force “Brat”—from constantly starting over to finding stability within movement. Now working alongside her husband in the commercial robotics industry, with a background in Information Systems, Accounting, and an MBA, she brings both personal and professional insights into how adaptability becomes an asset in every area of life.

Whether you're part of a military family, navigating your own transitions, or seeking inspiration on building a meaningful life through change, this conversation offers wisdom, warmth, and a powerful reminder that your story is shaped by every place you've been.

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Candice as she shares her powerful journey battling Stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma. With a background in education and behavioral health, Candice now uses her Life Drafting approach to help others navigate life's challenges. Listen in as she recounts her intense battle with cancer—from major surgeries and slow recovery to finding strength and purpose through every setback. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and the belief that each chapter in life builds toward a better tomorrow.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ How embracing a “Life Drafting” approach can transform adversity into growth
✔️ The challenges and triumphs of recovering from major cancer surgery
✔️ Practical advice on resilience and redefining your path during difficult times
✔️ Insights into Candice’s unique journey and the power of personal transformation

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Anna Sothen, a dynamic media entrepreneur and networking powerhouse, to explore the profound impact of mindset on different areas of life. From business success to personal growth, Anna shares how shifting your perspective can open doors, create new opportunities, and transform challenges into stepping stones.

As a publisher, radio host, and community advocate, Anna has seen firsthand how mindset can make or break an entrepreneur’s journey. She dives into the power of intentional thinking, the role of resilience, and practical ways to cultivate a success-oriented mindset. Whether you're a business owner, a creative, or simply looking for ways to reframe your thinking, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable takeaways.

Key Takeaways:
✔️ How mindset influences success in business and personal life
✔️ The role of resilience and adaptability in growth
✔️ Practical strategies for shifting limiting beliefs
✔️ The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people

📢 Quote from the Episode:
"Your mindset is the lens through which you see opportunity. Change the lens, and you change your future." – Anna Sothen

Grief has the power to reshape us, but it doesn’t have to define us. In this episode, we sit down with Lydia Nitya Griffith, a certified Integral Yoga Teacher, Master Chinese Astrologer, Feng Shui Consultant, Retreat Spirit Guide, and Grief Ceremonialist. With over two decades of experience, Nitya has guided countless women, teens, and children on a path of self-reclamation and healing.

✨ In this episode, we explore:
🔹 How grief transforms us & how to navigate it with self-compassion
🔹 The connection between yoga, energy work, and emotional healing
🔹 The power of sacred retreats for reclaiming inner peace
🔹 Practical tools to support yourself & others through loss

Nitya shares her wisdom from hosting women’s yoga retreats at Open Sky, her serene countryside home in Virginia, where healing, self-discovery, and wellness take center stage.

💛 If you are navigating loss or seeking a deeper connection to your authentic self, this episode is for you.

Welcome to the Metamorphosis Unleashed season finale! In this special episode, Doc G. reflects on the incredible journeys shared throughout the first season and announces an exciting new chapter for the show.

In This Episode:

• Reflections on the Season: A look back at the powerful stories of transformation and resilience shared by our remarkable guests.
• Recurring Themes: Discussing the common threads of grace, courage, and empowerment that have emerged in each episode.
• A New Chapter: We’re evolving! Learn about the reason behind changing our show’s name, which reflects the continuous theme of transformation, akin to the journey of a butterfly.
• Gratitude for Our Audience: A heartfelt thank you to our listeners for their unwavering support, downloads, and engagement.
• Looking Ahead: What to expect in the upcoming season, including more inspiring stories and impactful discussions.

Special Announcements:

• New Name, Same Mission: The show will now be known as Emerging with Grace, continuing to highlight the grace of transformations in women who emerge like beautiful butterflies.
• Season 2 Teaser: A glimpse into the exciting themes and stories shaping the next season.

Thank You!

To our incredible listeners – thank you for being part of our community. Your support has made this journey possible, and we’re thrilled to continue inspiring and empowering you in the next season.

Where to Listen:

• Website: www.marquitagarrettphd.com
• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Google Podcasts
• Stitcher

Don’t miss out on the next chapter of Emerging with Grace! Stay tuned for our upcoming season filled with more stories of transformation, grace, and empowerment.

Episode Credits:

Emerald City Podcast

RVA Content Studio

Vrinda Media Lab

Growing up as the biracial child of globe-trotting diplomats, Anya Hildreth experienced a life filled with cultural richness and privilege. Yet, upon returning to the U.S., she faced the harsh reality of discrimination, a stark contrast that ignited her journey toward self-healing and empowerment.

In this episode of Metamorphosis Unleashed, Anya shares her powerful story of resilience, encompassing the trials of being a single mother and dealing with workplace bias. Her transformative path highlights the crucial role of aligning emotions and spirituality to survive and thrive in adversity.

Listeners will find wisdom in our exploration of self-awareness and balance, focusing on breaking free from limiting generational mindsets, such as scarcity. Anya and Doc G discuss the importance of acknowledging emotional pain as a stepping stone to personal growth, underscoring the benefits of holistic living. By embracing self-love and understanding, women can better navigate the unique energy dynamics they encounter, setting personal boundaries and fostering supportive relationships. We aim to guide you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life through these insights.

We also delve into the power of community and emotional healing, drawing strength from the resilience of black mothers and grandmothers. Past traumas can be addressed through methods like Reiki and emotional clearing, promoting internal validation over the pursuit of external approval. Anya generously offers a free exercise to help uncover your top five emotional needs, empowering you to embrace your true self.

By focusing on personal growth and healing, we can unlock the potential to transform obstacles into opportunities and lead lives filled with resilience and fulfillment.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Anya Hildreth's journey from experiencing privilege abroad to facing discrimination in the U.S. and how it sparked her path to self-healing and empowerment
• The importance of emotional awareness and spirituality in overcoming adversity and aligning with one's true self
• Breaking free from limiting generational mindsets, such as scarcity, and embracing holistic living for personal growth
• Challenges women face in asserting personal boundaries and the transformative power of confidence and mindset
• The role of community in emotional healing and the resilience drawn from black mothers and grandmothers
• The impact of past traumas and methods like Reiki and emotional clearing to promote internal validation
• Anya's free exercise to discover top emotional needs and her upcoming course, highlighting the importance of self-discovery

Resources from this Episode

Connect with Anya Hildreth: linktr.ee/CitizensofLife

Get a 22% discount off Anya’s course by mentioning code MARQGARRPHD88.

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.