What if the life you’re living right now—no matter how messy or uncertain—is actually preparing you for something greater?

In this episode, Rachel sits down with Rhonda Nelson—speaker, philanthropist, patient advocate, and author of A Different Life—for a raw, wisdom-packed conversation on navigating chronic illness, profound loss, and the courage to reinvent yourself through life’s darkest seasons.

Rhonda opens up about her diagnosis with AERD (aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease), the emotional impact of losing both her father and stepfather, and how she transformed pain into purpose through advocacy, authorship, and service. From life on the road with her husband (lead singer of Little River Band) to giving back through mission-driven work, Rhonda's story is a reminder that reinvention starts with radical honesty and deep self-compassion.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, exhausted by expectations, or unsure how to keep going—this conversation is for you.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

• How to advocate for your health (and your voice)
• The role grief plays in shaping purpose
• Why redefining expectations is key to peace
• The truth behind celebrity life and public perception
• What it means to love your life as it is

Timestamps: [00:00:00] Intro + meet Rhonda Nelson

[00:01:00] Living through chronic illness and receiving an AERD diagnosis

[00:04:00] Balancing marriage, mission, and illness

[00:06:00] Losing both her father and stepfather: grief and resilience

[00:08:00] Finding light after loss and transforming pain into purpose

[00:10:00] Reinvention, transition, and the power of grace

[00:14:00] Knowing when to say “no” and honoring your energy

[00:16:00] Using your voice: honesty with yourself and others

[00:20:00] Celebrity vs. reality: redefining public image with truth

[00:26:00] Why humanity is the real platform we all stand on

[00:29:00] Writing A Different Life and navigating public opinion

[00:33:00] Giving back: the dog rescue fundraiser and divine alignment

[00:36:00] Food, health, and honoring your body through nourishment

[00:38:00] Final encouragement: love the life you live

Resources Mentioned:

• Rhonda’s Website & Book: A Different Life
• Follow Rhonda: @rhondabnelson

Next Steps: → Download your FREE Confidence Blueprint:

Connect with Rachel: Website: iamrachelbrooks.com Instagram: @iamrachelbrooks Podcast IG: @theconfidentwoman.co

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