In this powerful episode of Prevailing Through Pain, Dr. Christal Foster opens up like never before — sharing how her upbringing, her struggles with depression, and her journey through leadership shaped the woman she is today.

As a pastor’s daughter turned physician, entrepreneur, and civic leader, Dr. Foster dives deep into the real cost of being "the strong one" — and how unspoken battles nearly broke her.

This episode explores:

The pressure of growing up in a high-expectation, high-visibility household

The quiet battle with early adulthood depression — and how she learned to heal

How being a high-functioning woman in leadership can mask internal struggles

Why setting boundaries and saying "no" saved her career and her peace

The journey from humble beginnings to launching a successful restaurant

Her message is clear: You don’t have to suffer in silence to lead with impact.

Want to share your own story? Apply to be a guest: karencherry.me/guest

Switching schools is hard. Doing it without your built-in best friends? Even harder.

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In this powerful episode of Prevailing Through Pain, we sit down with the honorable Rachel Proctor, Mayor of Dotto, to uncover her inspiring journey from a preacher's kid to a trailblazing leader. Mayor Proctor opens up about her humble beginnings, growing up in the church while balancing life in her family’s business, and how those formative experiences shaped her leadership and commitment to serving her community.

In This Episode:

Mayor Proctor’s upbringing and early challenges as a preacher’s kid (PK)

Navigating the pressure of being in the public eye while staying true to herself

How she overcame depression in her 20s and why mental health awareness is so critical for leaders

Lessons in setting boundaries, saying 'no,' and avoiding burnout in leadership roles

Her passion for civic engagement, starting from her involvement in HOAs and city boards

Insights into her successful entrepreneurial journey, including the opening of her first restaurant, Salata Salad Kitchen

Why building relationships and maintaining authenticity in leadership matters

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Join us for a thoughtful exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the unspoken challenges that come with wearing a new hat in the workplace.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more engaging discussions on leadership, life, and success!

Subscribe for more real, raw conversations about family, faith, and resilience.

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Follow Mayor Rachel Proctor’s journey and support her campaign:

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Dad’s Warning Saved My Life! | How One Conversation Changed Everything

What if one conversation could change the course of your life? In this emotional story, I reflect on the powerful warning my father gave me that shook me to my core.

"Son, if you don't stop, you're going to get murdered."

At that time, I was lost—drowning in reckless habits, constantly drunk, and living in a dangerous cycle. My father’s words hit me like a ton of bricks. I realized that this wasn’t the life I wanted, and something had to change.

From that moment forward, everything shifted. I turned my life around, cleaned up my act, and went from a path of destruction to earning a 4.0 GPA the very next semester.

This is a story about redemption, transformation, and the power of tough love. If you're struggling or know someone who is, this video is for you.

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What’s a moment in your life that made you change for the better? Drop it in the comments below!

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Join us for a thoughtful exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the unspoken challenges that come with wearing a new hat in the workplace.

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#healthcareheroes #Inspiration #ImmigrantSuccess #Leadership #PrevailingThroughPain

#KeithPalmer #PrevailingThroughPain #MedwellSolutions #Entrepreneurship #MilitaryVeteran #OvercomingAdversity #BlackExcellence #HealthcareLeadership #SuccessMindset

In this inspiring episode of Prevailing Through Pain, we sit down with Keith Palmer, owner of Medwell Solutions, to discuss his incredible journey from humble beginnings in the Bronx to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the healthcare industry.

Keith shares powerful insights about overcoming adversity, the impact of his military service, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. From navigating challenges as a Black man in healthcare to launching his own medical device company, Keith's story is one of resilience, discipline, and purpose.

Growing up in the Bronx and being raised by his grandparents

Lessons from the Air Force and how it shaped his career

Challenges as a surgical tech and later as a medical device rep

Facing racial bias in the operating room and pushing through

Starting Medwell Solutions and becoming an industry leader

Why therapy and self-care are essential for success

Keith also shares his P.A.R.T.I mindset—his acronym for success—and presents an exclusive “Make It Happen” challenge to inspire others.

Imagine waking up one day and not being able to open your mouth. That’s exactly what happened to me in high school when my jaw completely locked up, leaving me in shock and confusion. In this video, I share my personal health struggles, the scary moment I realized something was wrong, and how I managed to push through one of the darkest times of my life. Watch to hear my story of resilience and overcoming unexpected challenges!

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the unspoken challenges that come with wearing a new hat in the workplace.

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#healthcareheroes #Inspiration #ImmigrantSuccess #Leadership #PrevailingThroughPain

In this empowering video, we dive into valuable career advice for young professionals starting their journeys. The message is simple but impactful: Follow your passion, not the money. Hear firsthand why aligning with your true self and pursuing what you love will ultimately lead to long-term success and happiness. Money and success will follow when you stay true to what drives you. Start building your dream career today!

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the unspoken challenges that come with wearing a new hat in the workplace.

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#healthcareheroes #Inspiration #ImmigrantSuccess #Leadership #PrevailingThroughPain

"From Peer to Boss: Leadership Transition Challenges"

Transitioning from being "one of the team" to leading the team is one of the most complex shifts a professional can make. In this episode, we dive deep into the personal and emotional challenges of moving from peer to boss. From managing relationships with former coworkers to navigating newfound authority, this conversation reveals the raw realities and growth opportunities in leadership.

You'll hear real stories of resilience, hard conversations, and lessons learned while adapting to the delicate balance of authority and camaraderie. Whether you're stepping into a leadership role for the first time or reflecting on your own journey, this episode is packed with insights to inspire and guide you through the transition.

Join us for a thoughtful exploration of leadership, personal growth, and the unspoken challenges that come with wearing a new hat in the workplace.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more engaging discussions on leadership, life, and success!

#healthcareheroes #Inspiration #ImmigrantSuccess #Leadership #PrevailingThroughPain