”It’s A Wrap with Rap”

The Good Kind of Cancer: A Survivor's Voice After Two Near-Deaths

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Alicia Baca‑Rush, a two‑time cancer survivor who endured stage 2 thyroid cancer, ten surgeries, two tracheostomies, life‑threatening complications, and the loss and recovery of her voice. Alicia shares the failures she faced in the medical system, the loneliness of healing, and the emotional aftermath of trauma. Through candid storytelling and her book, The Good Kind of Cancer, Alicia describes how she turned pain into purpose, became an advocate for patients, and now helps others find hope, resilience, and practical ways to move forward after trauma. Sponsors: Kerisma Vere, author of "The Light Switch Myth" Available from Amazon Ayis Caperonis, author of "Staring Down Depression" Available from Amazon Links: thegoodkindofcancer.com FB aliciabacarush E: aliciabacarush@outlook.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Now That I'm Still Here — A Survivor’s Story of Autism, Abuse, and Hope

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Christopher Carazas about his memoir Now That I'm Still Here, exploring his late autism diagnosis, years of emotional abuse, suicide attempts, and the long work of healing. Chris shares how therapy, hospitalization, the loss of a loved one, and writing helped him reclaim purpose, and he discusses his advocacy for mental health and autism, speaking engagements, and resources for others in crisis. Sponsors: Erica Elliott MD-author of "From Doctor to Healer", Medicine and Miracles in the High Desert, "From Mountains to Medicine" Alicia Baca Rush, author of "The Good Kind of Cancer" Links: thegoodkindofcancer.com aliciabacarush@outlook.com ericaelliottmd.com Blog: musings memoir and medicine chriscarazas.com To Listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, All Major Platforms To View: You Tube-ITS A WRAPWITH RAP

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Ending Lawsuit Abuse: Inside PACT's Fight for Consumers

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Lauren Zelt, founder and CEO of Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT), about her journey from journalism to leading a national nonprofit focused on consumer protection. The conversation explores PACT's mission to stop lawsuit abuse, staged-accident scams, and misleading legal and medical practices that drive up costs for everyday families, and highlights real-world examples, a documentary, and recent state legislative wins. Listeners learn practical tips to protect themselves, where to find resources (ProtectingAmericanConsumers.org), and how to get involved in supporting consumer-rights reform. Sponsors: Dr. Erica Elliott, author of "Medicine and Miracle in the High Desert, From "Mountains to Medicine", "From Doctor to Healer" Alicia Baca Rush, author of "The Good Kind of Cancer" Links: www.ericaelliottmd.com Blog: musings, memoir and medicine https://thegoodkindofcancer.com aliciabacarush@outlook.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Betrayal Trauma Explained by Expert Practitioner Mr J

Host Ron Rapaport interviews certified betrayal trauma practitioner Mr. J about the nature of betrayal trauma, how it differs from other trauma, and practical steps for individuals and couples to begin healing. The episode covers immediate actions after discovering betrayal (medical checks, needs assessments, grounding), managing shame and triggers, rebuilding trust, common reconciliation mistakes, realistic timelines, and resources from Mr. J for ongoing support. Sponsors: Ayis Caperonis, author of "Staring Down Depression" Kerisma Vere, author of "The Light Switch Myth" Blue Sky CBD-click link for 20% off first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: https://mrjayrelationshipcoach.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Healthy Resilience: Victoria Pelletier’s Journey from Trauma to CEO

In this episode Ron Rapaport interviews Victoria Pelletier, a corporate executive and author who rose from poverty and trauma to become a CEO and thought leader on resilient, authentic leadership. Victoria explains her concept of "healthy resilience," contrasts it with burnout, and shares practical habits—self-care, community, purpose, and self-awareness—that sustained her career and leadership through major transformations. Listeners will hear personal stories, leadership lessons, and actionable advice for cultivating resilience, empathy, and a whole-human approach to success. Sponsors: Billy Mandarino, author of The NowIst" Dr. Erica Elliott, author of trilogy "From Mountains to Medicine, "Medicine and Miracles in the High Desert", "From Doctor to Healer" On-Line Therapy-Click link for a 20% podcast discount on your first session https://onlinetherapy.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=3556 Links: victoria-pelletier.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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From Doctor to Healer: Erica Elliott-True Medical Detective

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Dr. Erica Elliott about her transformation from conventional physician to healer, exploring her work with the Navajo, the mind–body connection, and her practice in environmental and functional medicine. The episode covers her personal health crises caused by toxic environments and implants, how she learned to diagnose medical mysteries, criticisms of corporate medicine, and practical steps for deeper healing. Dr. Elliott also discusses her books and upcoming title, The Medical Detective. Sponsors: S.Kaye Klein, author of "The Betrayal of Sanity" Kerisma Vere, author of "The Light Switch Myth" Blue Sky CBD-Click link for 20% off first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: kerismavere.com towardswellness.ca https://www.skayeklein.com www.ericaelliottmd.com Blog: musings, memoir and medicine https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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The NOW-IST-Living Fully in the Present Moment

Meet Billy Mandarino, author of the "NOW-IST, Finding the Signs to Your Ultimate Desires in No Time". Billy is a speaker, teacher, businessman and founder of the NOW-IST principles showing a world in stress and fear, a way out. Host Ron Rapaport and Billy will discuss how, through feeling and imagination, we can find the way back to our true self and a fulfilled life. Sponsors: Arthur Lih, author of "Sorry, Can't is a Lie" Billy Mandarino, author of 'The NOW-IST" TeleWellnessMD-Click link for info and a 25% podcast discount on first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Blue Sky CBD click link for a 20% discount on first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: https://www.billymandarino.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com Please support the Podcast-every dollar goes into production costs to help bring our audience more content.. Click link below https://ko-fi.com/itsawrapwithrappodcast

From Homeless to Hope: Bryan Blackmon's Crab Crew Comeback

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Bryan Blackmon about his journey from addiction, homelessness, and incarceration to sobriety, TikTok fame, and founding Crab Crew Life. Bryan shares the role of Elaine in his recovery, practical daily disciplines, and advice for anyone feeling hopeless, plus how listeners can follow his work at CrabCrewLife.com. Sponsors: S.Kaye Klein, author of "The Betrayal of Sanity Available from Amazon Alicia Baca Rush, author of "The Good Kind of Cancer" Available from Amazon Blue Sky CBD Click link for 20% podcast discount on your first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: thegoodkindofcancer.com FB aliciabacarush E: aliciabacarush@outlook.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com https://www.bluesky-cbd.com

Family Estrangement-The Silent Epidemic with Marit Welker

Ron Rapaport talks certified life coach Marit Welker, on the deeply emotional and often misunderstood topic of family estrangement between parents and their adult children. Marit brings clarity, compassion and insight into the complex dynamics between mothers, fathers, sons and daughters who have become distanced or completely disconnected. Her philosophy centers on accountability, self-reflection, healing and the belief that change often begins on the parents' end. Their discussion will explore the causes of estrangement, the emotional toll it takes, and practical pathways toward understanding and reconciliation. Sponsors: Arthur Lih, author of Sorry, "Can't is a Lie" Billy Mandarino, author of "The NowIst" TeleWellnessMD-Click link for a special 25% podcast discount on your first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Links: https://maritwelker.com FB Marit Welker Speaker and Coach Podcast-Still Here for Estranged Christian Moms https://itsawrapwithrap.com

When Coincidence Speaks: The Divine Language of Everyday Miracles

In this episode, host Ron Rapaport interviews Sophia Demas, author of The Divine Language of Coincidence, about her experiences with synchronicity, divine timing, and miracles. Sophia shares personal stories — from prophetic dreams to spontaneous healings — and explains how gratitude, prayer, and taking action on meaningful coincidences helped transform her life and inspired her books and workshops. Listeners will learn practical ways to notice signs, distinguish meaningful coincidences from chance, and cultivate awareness through journaling and faith. Sophia also discusses her Living a Fearless Life program and how her work supports at-risk women. Sponsors: Arthur Lih, author of "Sorry, Can't is a Lie" Sopia Demas, author of "The Divine Language of Coincidence" Blue Sky CBD-Click link for 20% off first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: sophiademas.com

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Arthur Lih-Saving Choking Victims, Inventor of LifeVac- Anti-Choking Device

Host Ron Rapaport talks with Arthur Lih, the founder, inventor and CEO of LifeVac, a patented choking-rescue device that has saved thousands of lives worldwide. After spending eighteen years co-building a highly successful logistics company, and in 2012 learning about the tragic death of a seven-year-old child choking on a grape, he was driven from retirement to find a solution without any knowledge of medical devices that could prevent choking deaths. Arthur is the author of "Sorry, Can't is a Lie", where he shares lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, personal setbacks and the mindset required to turn adversity into impact. Sponsors: Laszlo Suhajda, author of "Twelve Bells to Freedom" Sophia Demas, author of The Divine Language of Coincidence, How Miracles Changed My Life After I Began Paying Attention" TeleWellnessMD- Use link for 25% off first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Links: https://www.lifevac.net https://itsawrapwithrap.com

Twelve Bells to Freedom-The 1956 Hungarian Revolution Story

Ron Rapaport interviews Laszlo Suhayda, who escaped Soviet communist Hungary in 1956 to remind the world that freedom doesn't come free. His book "Twelve Bells to Freedom" tells the harrowing true story of how the post WWll Russian occupation of Hungary sought to destroy faith-banning religion, imprisoning clergy, and forcing families to inform on each other. His gripping firsthand account will captivate listeners, from history buffs to those passionate about faith, freedom and resilience. This is a listen for all young people to learn about life under this political system. Sponsors: Sophia Demas, author of "The Divine Language of Coincidence, How Miracles Transformed My Life After I Began Paying Attention" Laszlo Suhajada, author of "Twelve Bells to Freedom" TeleWellnessMD- Click link for a podcast special 25% off your first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Links: www.laszlokomodo.com YouTube: Freedom Revisited https://itsawrapwithrap.com

It's Always Too Early to Quit: A Marine's Journey Through Trauma to Purpose

Jay Setchell, a U.S. Marine and author of "The Strength Within You, It's Always Too Early to Quit", shares his remarkable story of surviving multiple life-threatening accidents, dozens of surgeries, and long recoveries. His experiences reveal how perseverance and inner strength can carry you through the hardest challenges. In this episode Jay discusses his military service, near-death moments, rehabilitation, and the mindset that kept him moving forward. He offers practical encouragement and a roadmap for anyone facing adversity, showing that quitting is not the answer when purpose is unfolding. Sponsors: Laszlo Suhajda, author of "Twelve Bells to Freedom https://amzn.to/3NVw0Y5 Adam Ferguson, author of "The Things You Have to Do Before I Buy You a Phone" https://amzn.to/40MX3aU TelewellnessMD -Click link for information and a special 25% Discount on your first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Online-Therapy.com-Click link for a 20% discount on 1st visit https://onlinetherapy.go2cloud.org/aff_c? offer_id=2&aff_id=3556 Links: neverquittrying.com jay@neverquittrying.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town: The Sleep in Heavenly Peace Origin Story

Host Ron Rapaport talks with Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, about how a 2012 garage build turned into a nationwide nonprofit that makes and delivers beds for children in need. The episode explores the organization’s origin, the chapter model and volunteer build days, memorable delivery stories, leadership lessons, funding, and how listeners can donate, volunteer, or start a chapter. Through the simple mission "No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town," SHP has mobilized communities to deliver tens of thousands of beds and transform lives. Sponsors: Adam Ferguson, author of "The Things You Have to Do Before I Buy You a Phone" Barbara Grassey, author of "American Expat, Moving Abroad Solo After 60" Blue Sky CBD-Click link for a 20% Discount on first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: shpbeds.org lukemickelson@shpbeds.org https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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The Things Kids Need to Do Before You Buy Them a Phone

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Adam Ferguson, a parent and author of "The Things You Have to Do Before I Buy You a Phone" discussing one of today's most pressing parenting issues: When and how children should be introduced to smartphones. Rather than focusing solely on restrictions, Adam emphasizes preparation, accountability, emotional maturity, and trust. His work resonates with parents, educators and caregivers seeking a balanced guidance that prioritizes character over convenience. Sponsors: Barbara Grassey, author of "American Expat, Moving Abroad Solo After 60" Adam Ferguson, author of "The Things You Have to Do Before I Buy You a Phone" Blue Sky CBD- Click link to save 20% on first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: beforethephone.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

Reinventing Life After 60: One Woman's Move to Portugal

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Barbara Grassey, author of American Expat, Moving Abroad Solo After 60, about her bold relocation to Portugal and practical advice for mature adults seeking reinvention abroad. They cover visas, healthcare, finances, cultural adjustments, making friends, and the importance of scouting trips and flexibility when building a new life oveseas. Sponsors: TeleWellnessMD-Click link for a podcast special 25% discount on first order https://telewellnessmd.com/?afmc=itsawrapwithrap Blue Sky CBD-Click link for 20% discount on first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Online-Therapy.com Click link for a 20% off discount on first session https://onlinetherapy.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=3556 Links: https://barbaragrassey.substack.com/p/welcome-to-my-expat-golden-girl-life Substack: My Expat Golden Girl Life https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Chai on Life: Quilts, Chai, and Reinventing Yourself at Any Age

In this episode of It's a Wrap with Rap, Lorie Kleiner Eckert—writer, storyteller, quilter, and author of Chai on Life—shares warm, candid stories about family, faith, and personal reinvention. She discusses turning quilts into books, finding meaning in everyday moments, and the Jewish idea of "chai" as a life-affirming theme. Lorie offers practical advice on writing, staying resilient through life changes, and taking one small step each day toward a new life. The conversation is full of humility, humor, and heartfelt takeaways meant to inspire readers of all ages. Sponsors: Barbara Grassey, author of "American Expat-Moving Abroad Solo After 60 Jay Setchell, author of "The Strength Within You It's Always Too Soon to Quit" Blue Sky CBD-Click link to order and receive 20% off first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: loriekleinereckert.com Etsy: lorie kleiner eckert https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Lisa Johnson-Overcoming the Challenges of Toxic Relationships

Host Ron Rapaport discusses with certified domestic violence expert, advocate, high-conflict divorce coach, and author of the critically acclaimed book "Been There, Got Out" Lisa Johnson, about helping survivors to seek clarity, strength and a way forward. Lisa, who is not a lawyer, represented herself through scores of court appearances and her case was published in the Connecticut Law Journal in 2021 and her live testimony contributed to the passage of "Jennifer's Law", one of the first U.S. laws to expand the legal definition of domestic violence to include "coercive control" which is financial or emotional abuse. Sponsors: Lorie Kleiner Eckert, author of "Chai on Life" Jay Setchell, author of "The Strength Within You; It's Always Too Soon to Quit" Blue Sky CBD-use link to order for a 20% discount on first order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: https://beentheregotout.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

Joel Steele, Flip Your Life Switch: From Rock Bottom to Purposeful Success

Host Ron Rapaport interviews Joe Steele, entrepreneur and author of Life Switch, about overcoming major setbacks—bankruptcy, brushes with jail, and burnout—and rebuilding a life of purpose. They explore Steele’s core philosophy of living "on" versus "off," the three P’s (potential, passion, purpose), practical habits for staying activated, and one actionable step listeners can take today to begin their own transformation. Sponsors: Author Lorie Kleiner Eckert-"Chai on Life" Author Jay Setchell-"The Strength Within You, It's Always Too Soon to Quit! Blue Sky CBD-Use link to order and receive 20% off 1st order https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: https://bookjoelsteele.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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Super Survivor: Judy Kim Cage’s Unbelievable Comeback After Stroke

In this episode Ron Rapaport interviews Judy Kim Cage, author of Super Survivor, about her life-changing hemorrhagic stroke and remarkable recovery. Judy discusses how denial, resistance, and persistence shaped her healing journey, the challenges of rehabilitation, navigating long-term disability, and the gratitude and purpose she found afterward. Listeners will hear practical hope, peer mentoring insights, and why recovery can lead to a renewed life. Sponsors: Jay Setchell, author of "The Strength Within You: It's always Too Soon to Quit" Lorie Kleiner Eckert, author of "Chai on Life" Blue Sky CBD -use link below to order and save 20% https://www.bluesky-cbd.com/pages/_go_?ref=3251:615856&discount=ron Links: IG: @judykimcagetheauthorpage E: judycage14@gmail.com https://itsawrapwithrap.com

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