Ken Nwadike Jr. is the founder of the Free Hugs Project, using the power of hugs to foster peace and connection. He shares how missing the Boston Marathon qualifying time by just 11 seconds twice led him to activate a transformative movement after the 2013 bombing. Inspired by his mother and the challenges of his upbringing, he now spreads kindness at protests and difficult moments. Ken discusses the significance of a single hug in bridging divides and his mission to create empathy and understanding, even in the most turbulent times.

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, adventure photographer and storyteller Cory Richards takes us on a journey through his extraordinary life—one filled with raw honesty, unexpected pivots, and hard-earned wisdom. From a childhood marked by undiagnosed bipolar disorder and turbulent family dynamics to living in abandoned buildings and dropping out of school, Cory's path was anything but conventional.But it was that unconventional journey that led him to some of the highest peaks in the world—both figuratively and literally. After borrowing a simple point-and-shoot camera, Cory discovered a passion for photography that would eventually land him on assignment with National Geographic, capturing some of the most remote and treacherous landscapes on the planet. He became one of the most sought-after adventure photographers in the world, climbing Everest twice and documenting human resilience in extreme conditions.Yet, despite the accolades and success, Cory made a shocking decision: he walked away. In the middle of an expedition, at the peak of his career, he left. Not just the climb, but the entire identity he had built as a photographer and mountaineer. In this deeply introspective conversation, Cory opens up about why he chose to step away, how he navigated personal demons, and what it means to truly listen to your inner voice.We discuss the tension between passion and burnout, the struggle of defining oneself beyond external validation, and the courage it takes to let go of a version of yourself that no longer serves you. Cory also shares insights into storytelling, the power of imagery, and how his life experiences shaped the way he sees the world—both through a camera lens and beyond it.If you've ever felt trapped by success, struggled with mental health, or wondered when it's time to walk away from something you've outgrown, this episode will resonate deeply. Cory's story is a testament to the beauty of exploration—not just of the world, but of oneself.Tune in for a candid, unfiltered, and inspiring conversation about what it truly means to embrace change, redefine purpose, and find meaning in the unknown.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light sits down with Trevon Jenifer, a three-time Paralympic gold medalist in wheelchair basketball, who embodies the essence of resilience and determination. Born without legs, Trevon’s journey to the pinnacle of athletic excellence wasn’t without its challenges, but his story is a testament to the power of mindset, community, and perseverance.Trevon opens up about how his decision to leave a secure job and play basketball overseas transformed his career and perspective. He shares the mental and physical preparation required to compete at the highest level, the role visualization played in high-pressure moments, and the profound impact his upbringing and family have had on his success. Trevon also reflects on the legacy he’s building for his children and how he balances being a world-class athlete with being a present father.The conversation dives deep into themes of identity, overcoming obstacles, and embracing the unknown. Trevon’s story is rich with lessons on resilience, leadership, and finding strength in the face of adversity. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to tackle life’s challenges or insight into what it takes to make history, this episode is packed with powerful takeaways.Join Light as he unpacks Trevon’s journey from small-town beginnings to becoming a role model for generations to come.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

In this engaging conversation, Cory Muscara, a mindfulness teacher and author of Stop Missing Your Life, shares his transformative journey into meditation, which began in college. He discusses the profound insights gained from his six-month stint as a Buddhist monk in Burma, where he faced immense physical and emotional challenges. Cory distinguishes between primary and secondary pain, offering practical tools for self-discovery and resilience. He emphasizes finding one's unique teaching voice and the importance of authentic presence in today's superficial world.

In this moving Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light revisits the pivotal moment that forever changed Jessica Janzen's life. Jessica recounts how a reluctant volunteer experience at her church led her to care for two children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)—a rare genetic condition that limits physical abilities but not cognitive sharpness. What started as a Sunday morning act of service became a profound journey of love, gratitude, and transformation.Years later, Jessica’s world was turned upside down when her second child, Lewiston, was diagnosed with the very condition she had grown to understand through Shawn and Shanea, the siblings she had once cared for. Jessica shares the raw emotions of navigating SMA, from daily caregiving challenges to the deep lessons it taught her about resilience, joy, and gratitude for life’s simplest blessings.This conversation explores the power of following life’s nudges, the beauty of showing up for others, and how seemingly small actions can lead to profound impact. Jessica also opens up about her relationship with her husband, Ronnie—better known as “Hot Ronnie”—and how love and faith carried them through life’s greatest challenges.Whether you’re navigating uncertainty, seeking inspiration to embrace gratitude, or looking to connect with your purpose, Jessica’s story will remind you of the power of leaning into discomfort, trusting your instincts, and finding joy in the unexpected.Tune in for an episode filled with heartfelt lessons and unforgettable insights.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Katya Komleva’s life was irrevocably changed at the age of 20 when a boiler explosion left her with third-degree burns, nine amputated toes, and years of surgeries and recovery ahead. What could have been a story of despair became an extraordinary journey of resilience, transformation, and purpose.In this episode, Light Watkins sits down with Katya to explore how she turned her trauma into what she calls a “happy chance.” Katya opens up about the fateful night that changed everything, her harrowing recovery process, and how she defied all odds by choosing to label her accident as a source of awakening rather than a tragedy. Through humor, self-reflection, and an unshakeable sense of curiosity, Katya found healing not only in her body but in her heart and mind.Katya also shares her journey of learning to walk again, the importance of taking responsibility for her decisions, and the powerful role her family and friends played in her recovery. She delves into her writing process for Accidental Awakening, her memoir that provides readers with raw and honest insights into the architecture of her healing journey. Plus, she discusses how her scars have become a source of empowerment and the inspiration behind her charity, SCAR Positive.Whether you’re facing a physical or emotional challenge, Katya’s story offers a masterclass in reframing hardship, finding strength in vulnerability, and embracing life fully—on your own terms. Tune in for a conversation filled with hope, humanity, and powerful lessons for overcoming adversity.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Martinus Evans, a determined marathon runner, shares how a doctor’s harsh words ignited his journey from self-doubt to empowerment. He recounts his struggles and triumphs, including battling injuries and societal biases in the running community. With humor and resilience, he emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in fitness, proving that everyone belongs, regardless of speed or size. Martinus' story highlights the transformative power of defiance, pushing oneself to the limit, and redefining what it means to be an athlete.

Explore empowering strategies to fulfill your vision in the new year! Learn how to break free from unfulfilled resolutions with practical tips on habit formation and personal accountability. Discover the importance of intrinsic motivation and self-validation in achieving goals. Navigate the concept of 'choicelessness' to enhance focus and simplify decisions. Embrace commitment for personal growth and uncover the value of community support and meditation in realizing your purpose. Transform your intentions into achievements!

Donald V. Watkins, an accomplished attorney and advocate for justice, shares his extraordinary journey from freedom to prison and back. While serving a sentence, he ingeniously helped 47 fellow inmates advocate for their release, exposing wrongful convictions and systemic flaws. He emphasizes the vital importance of self-advocacy and community support within the harsh realities of incarceration. Donald's resilience turned a personal tragedy into a movement for change, showcasing the unwavering strength of the human spirit.

Dr. Will Cole, a leading functional medicine practitioner and New York Times bestselling author, discusses his inspiring journey from rural Pennsylvania to pioneering telehealth medicine. He emphasizes the connection between diet, gut health, and emotional well-being, advocating for small, sustainable lifestyle changes. The conversation also highlights the fight against harmful food dyes in popular cereals while promoting a holistic approach that blends modern diagnostics with ancient practices. Dr. Cole encourages mindfulness and being present as crucial elements for health and happiness.