Authors
Christina N. Semple, PsyD is a Grief Alchemist who supports others navigating grief, childhood trauma, and end of life issues. After earning her doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology, Dr. Christina has woven a rich tapestry of experience from hospice care management to forensic and community counseling, elementary school administration, and military and university teaching. With over 25 years immersed in spirituality and mindfulness practices, she brings all of her experience to her ministry as an End of Life Doula and community mental health practitioner. Follow her on LinkedIn
Jaha Nailah Avery is an African American woman and a proud Southerner. Hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, she received her law degree from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she studied constitutional and civil rights law. She spent several years in the startup tech space before embarking on her professional writing career, and her work has been featured in Essence, The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and Architectural Digest. Her aim is to always document, celebrate, and preserve the stories of Black people, communities, and history.
*Michele's last name is withheld for privacy. She told her story to writer Lottie Joiner.
Michele Meyer is an award-winning journalist who has written about fitness for Essence, Heart & Soul, SELF, Shape, Reader’s Digest, Family Circle, Woman’s Day, BH&G, GQ and Prevention. She has also contributed to AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.
Michelle Petties is a Food Story coach, recovering food addict, and emotional eating expert who gives voice to what happens at the intersection of food, feelings, and everyday life. Her award-winning memoir, Leaving Large – The Stories of a Food Addict, is not a weight-loss book—it's a powerful reckoning with the past and a path toward healing and wholeness. A speaker and workshop facilitator, Michelle helps participants uncover their food truths and reclaim their power
