Adversity to Ascension

About Adversity to Ascension

As a psychiatrist, I have listened to and treated thousands of people over the past 30 years from all walks of life. I have worked with the most desperate of the unhoused, addicted, criminally insane, people who have lost their physical health, material possessions, and loved ones, those functioning in their lives with mild to severe mood and anxiety disorders, and those whose maladies consist of complaints on a mundane and inconsequential level. In each category, some find ways to cope and overcome their challenges, while others are utterly devastated by their circumstances, sinking into des

Publisher

Dr.Sandra Cox

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Oct 2024

Latest episode

13 Jun 2025

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Jun 2025

   From Sandy Hook Tragedy to Unbreakable Strength

   Robbie Parker recounts the tragic loss of his daughter in the Sandy Hook shooting, the subsequent media harassment, and his journey toward healing through therapy and advocacy in an interview with Dr. Sandra Cox.

2. 

   14 Mar 2025

   From Trauma to Triumph: David Keck’s Journey of Healing

   Dr. Sandra Cox sits down with David Keck, host of The Process of Healing podcast, to discuss his harrowing journey through trauma, resilience, and advocacy. David shares his deeply personal story—growing up as an openly gay man in the South, surviving a brutal hate crime, and navigating the long road to recovery. Despite immense hardship, he has turned his pain into purpose, advocating for survivors and working to create change in the justice system and mental health support for victims of violence. 🌟 Topics Covered in This Episode: ✅ David’s early life and overcoming childhood adversity ✅ The attack that changed everything—and how he survived ✅ The failures of the justice system and the challenges of being a gay victim in Tennessee ✅ How therapy, grounding techniques, and advocacy helped in his healing process ✅ The importance of support networks and breaking the silence around trauma ✅ His podcast The Process of Healing and mission to help others David’s courage and determination are truly inspiring. Don’t miss this moving conversation about survival, resilience, and the fight for justice. 🔔 Like, Subscribe & Comment! Let us know your thoughts and share this with someone who needs to hear it. 🎙 Listen to David’s Podcast: The Process of Healing: https://www.youtube.com/@theprocess_pod 📲 Follow David on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@david_keck #HealingJourney #TraumaSurvivor #LGBTQ #SurvivorStories #MentalHealthAwareness #Resilience

3. 

   9 Mar 2025

   An Unexpected Friendship That Changed Their Lives

   Welcome to Adversity to Ascension, the podcast where we explore how life’s challenges can be transformed into meaning and success. In this episode, Dr. Sandra Cox sits down with Jeff Comerchero and Eli Radford—an unlikely pair whose friendship defies stereotypes and societal expectations. Jeff, a former mayor of Temecula, Vietnam veteran, and CEO of a billion-dollar real estate development company, spent most of his life as a staunch conservative. Eli, originally known as Liz, has since transitioned and now identifies as non-binary. Their story, captured in their book The Old Man and the Queer, is one of personal growth, unexpected friendship, and the power of open-mindedness. In this episode, they discuss: ✅ How their friendship began despite political and social differences ✅ Jeff’s personal transformation in understanding gender identity ✅ Eli’s journey navigating family expectations and societal norms ✅ The challenges and victories of the LGBTQ+ community today ✅ The importance of breaking down barriers and fostering understanding This conversation is a testament to the idea that real change happens when we are willing to listen, learn, and challenge our own perspectives. 📖 Get their book, The Old Man and the Queer: 🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Old-Man-Queer-Transformative-Retired/dp/B0CWGY2D63 🔗 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-old-man-and-the-queer-jeff-comerchero/1145027398 🔗 Website: https://theoldmanandthequeer.com/ 🎧 Listen & Subscribe to Adversity to Ascension 🔹 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/inspiring-stories-of-triumph-over-hardship-with-dr/id1777513787?i=1000675402178 🔹 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71AOfCUZJK5m3lZGlQILq4 👍 If you found this conversation insightful, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories of transformation and growth! #LGBTQ #PersonalGrowth #Friendship #AdversityToAscension #Podcast #JeffComerchero #EliRadford #TheOldManAndTheQueer

4. 

   28 Feb 2025

   From Evangelical Roots to Appalachian Witchcraft - The Solitary Journey of Carol Chea

   Dr. Sandra Cox welcomes Carol Chea, host of Solitary Magic Podcast, to share her incredible journey from a strict Southern Baptist upbringing to discovering her path in Appalachian witchcraft and spiritual self-discovery. Carol opens up about the struggles of being deeply embedded in evangelical culture—marrying young, homeschooling her children, and dedicating her life to the church—only to face a personal crisis when her marriage ended. This turning point led her to question the doctrines she once followed blindly and ultimately guided her toward a spiritual awakening rooted in nature-based practices, ancestral wisdom, and personal empowerment.She discusses the deep influence of her great-grandmother, a “holler witch” known for healing and prophetic dreams, and how that connection helped her reclaim an intuitive, earth-based spirituality. Carol also explores the significance of deities like Brigid, The Morrigan, and Hecate, explaining how they serve as archetypal energies that guide her through life’s transitions. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Cox and Carol reflect on religious trauma, the rise of witchcraft as a spiritual movement, and the deep calling many women feel to return to ancient wisdom in today’s world. They discuss the importance of community, spiritual sovereignty, and embracing a practice that isn’t about rigid rules, but about aligning with the cycles of nature and the power within. ✨ Topics Covered: 🔮 Leaving evangelical Christianity & religious trauma 🌿 Embracing Appalachian witchcraft & ancestral wisdom 🕯️ The role of deities and archetypes in spiritual practice 🔥 The resurgence of divine feminine energy 💫 How spirituality can be a path to healing and personal power 🎧 Listen to Carol’s podcast, Solitary Magic: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SolitaryMagicPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xSc5FyRgfWkHft1um3fRN Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solitary-magic/id1766319759 🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! Let’s keep the conversation going—drop your thoughts in the comments below! #SpiritualAwakening #ReligiousTrauma #Witchcraft #AppalachianMagic #SpiritualJourney #AdversityToAscension

5. 

   23 Jan 2025

   Kyle Hartfield's Story of Triumph Over Trauma and Healing with TMS

   Welcome to Adversity to Ascension, a podcast dedicated to transforming life's hardships into opportunities for growth and meaning. In this episode, we sit down with Kyle Hartfield, co-owner of Inland Empire TMS, whose incredible story of overcoming addiction, trauma, and adversity will inspire you. Joined by Dr. Sandra Cox, Kyle shares his journey of battling mental health challenges, 20+ years of addiction, and the profound impact of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy on his recovery. Kyle opens up about his struggles growing up, navigating a tumultuous childhood, and his ultimate path to sobriety after years of alcohol and substance abuse. He reflects on pivotal moments, including the intervention that changed his life and the miraculous recovery aided by TMS therapy. This revolutionary treatment not only transformed Kyle’s mental health but also reignited his passion and drive to help others through his work. In this heartfelt conversation, you’ll learn: • The truth behind addiction and self-medication. • The role of ADHD, depression, and trauma in Kyle’s life and recovery. • How TMS therapy is revolutionizing treatment for mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. • Why a strong support system and a purpose-driven approach to life can make all the difference. This episode is a raw, vulnerable look into the life of someone who hit rock bottom and climbed back up, stronger than ever. Kyle’s story is a testament to resilience, the power of second chances, and the transformative potential of modern mental health treatments. 🔗 Links and Resources: • Check out Kyle's YouTube: https://www.italktms.com • Learn more about Inland Empire TMS: https://www.inlandempiretms.com Follow us for updates and testimonials: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook 🌟 Subscribe, like, and share this episode to inspire someone who might need it. Let’s spread hope and healing together. #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #TMS #OvercomingAdversity #AdversityToAscension

6. 

   21 Dec 2024

   Unlocking the Power of Storytelling with Ann Marie Houghtailing: From Adversity to Triumph

   Ann Marie Houghtailing, a storytelling and business development expert, shares her inspiring journey and reveals the neuroscience behind storytelling and practical advice for overcoming adversity and finding your unique value.

7. 

   14 Dec 2024

   Facing Fear: How to Thrive Amidst Political and Social Challenges

   Dr. Sandra Cox shares practical strategies for building resilience and finding purpose amidst societal and political challenges, drawing from her expertise as a mental health professional.

8. 

   5 Dec 2024

   Sarah Parlow’s Journey of Resilience, Advocacy, and Empowerment

   Sarah Parlow, a nurse anesthetist, actress, writer, life coach, and LGBTQ advocate, shares her courageous journey of resilience, advocacy, and empowerment, inspiring listeners to live their truth and thrive.

9. 

   14 Nov 2024

   Transforming Adversity into Purpose with Randy Haveson

   In this powerful first episode, host Dr. Sandra Cox dives deep into resilience, self-discovery, and recovery with thought leader Randy Haveson. With over 40 years of sobriety, Randy has become a beacon of hope, using his journey from addiction and self-doubt to inspire and uplift others. A bestselling author of Becoming Your Own BFF, Randy has shared his story on major platforms like CNN, CNBC, and TEDx, impacting countless lives. Join us as Randy opens up about his darkest moments—how hitting rock bottom at age 24 forced him to confront himself and find the courage to seek help. He reveals the crucial role that therapy, journaling, and self-compassion played in reshaping his life. Through candid anecdotes and honest reflections, Randy discusses the societal pressures that discourage men from expressing emotions, the challenges of confronting feelings in recovery, and how embracing vulnerability ultimately became his greatest strength. Key Takeaways: - How Randy transformed his inner bully into his best friend, building self-esteem and personal strength. - The importance of community and support networks in recovery, and why connecting with others helped him redefine his purpose. - Practical advice for those struggling with addiction and mental health, from changing environments to journaling as a tool for emotional clarity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating difficult times, searching for inspiration, or simply wanting to understand the power of resilience and hope. Tune in and discover how embracing vulnerability and reaching out for help can turn personal pain into a source of purpose and strength. 📕 Don’t forget to check out Randy’s book, Becoming Your Own BFF, available on Amazon, for a deeper dive into his journey: https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Your-Own-BFF-Self-Esteem/dp/0998413828 🔍 Find Randy online at: https://randyhaveson.com/ 👉 Subscribe for more episodes on transforming challenges into growth and empowering journeys through adversity. #SelfEsteemJourney #OvercomingAddiction #ResilienceAndRecovery

10. 

    1 Nov 2024

    Ginger Hitzke’s Journey to Affordable Housing Leadership

    Welcome to Adversity to Ascension with Dr. Sandra Cox! In this empowering episode, Dr. Cox sits down with Ginger Hitzke, a trailblazing first-generation real estate developer and president of Hitzke Development. Ginger shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leader in affordable housing, developing over 1,500 housing units and $430 million in real estate across California. Despite early challenges—including balancing a teen pregnancy and a career that began as an administrative assistant—Ginger grew into her role, ultimately founding Hitzke Development during the 2008 financial crisis. In this conversation, Ginger opens up about her unique path in the real estate world, the obstacles she overcame, and how her experience with housing instability inspired her to create sustainable, community-centered housing for low-income families and veterans. Through candid discussions about scarcity mindsets, mentorship, and the importance of trust, Ginger provides insight into her vision for housing affordability and her advocacy work for rent control and supportive housing. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, vision, and dedication to community—a must-watch for anyone interested in affordable housing, real estate development, or personal growth. #AffordableHousing #RealEstateSuccess #ResilienceJourney #OvercomingAdversity #HousingAdvocacy

11. 

    28 Oct 2024

    Inspiring Stories of Triumph Over Hardship with Dr. Sandra Cox

    Welcome to Adversity to Ascension, a podcast dedicated to exploring the incredible stories of people who have risen above life's most challenging obstacles. Hosted by Dr. Sandra Cox—a psychiatrist with nearly 30 years of experience, mother, and social justice advocate—this series delves into the raw and transformative journeys of those who have faced devastating setbacks and emerged stronger. In this debut episode, Dr. Cox shares her personal story, from growing up in a tumultuous household in rural Missouri to overcoming financial struggles and societal expectations to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor. Along the way, she reflects on her parents' resilience, the hardships that shaped her own life, and the lessons learned from guiding her patients through their darkest times. Tune in to be inspired by stories of perseverance, learn about the science of neuroplasticity, and discover tools for personal growth. Subscribe now to hear how you can cultivate resilience and manifest a life of abundance, no matter the challenges you face.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

5,632

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 49 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

53

Social presence

0

YouTube

82

Engagement

32

Contact Adversity to Ascension

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.