Michele Cushatt is a self-proclaimed expert of trauma, pain and the deep need for human connection. As a three-time cancer survivor, mother of six, author and speaker, Michele’s warmth, strength and transparency will remind you that you’re not alone.
Michele shares her story, how hope got her through her struggles and how it will help you through yours. Today, you’ll be reminded that your best days remain in front of you to live a more inspired life.
Thank you Live Inspired Podcast listener + community member Jennifer K. for recommending Michele Cushatt! Have someone you want to hear on the show? Email me at podcast@johnolearyinspires.com.
We’ve welcome other guests onto the Live Inspired Podcast that have overcome cancer diagnoses and are living inspired. Listen to author Christine Cain on ep. 82, Olympic figure skater Scott Hamilton on ep. 68 and author Edie Little Sundby on ep. 51.
1. What is the best book you've ever read? Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering by Timothy Keller and The Inner Voice of Love by Henri Nouwen
2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? I was very playful and full of imagination. I’ve lost some innocence and natural playfulness and I miss that. I’m trying to rediscover play, joy and laughter.
3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? My Bible. I used my Bible through the darkest days of my life. I wrote all the ugly, hard questions in there and have become part of my journey. It’s evidence of the grace that got me through.
4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? I would love to pick the brain of Henri Nouwen and all he experienced. The other would be my dad. He died of terminal pancreatic cancer eight weeks before my third diagnosis. I would love to hear him share how all the different pieces of his hard life came together.
5. What is the best advice you've ever received? You’re not failing, you’re learning. I was frustrated that I allowed my emotional triggers to get the best of me. It’s changed how I talk to myself and how I approach all my children and to teach them that they’re going to make mistakes.
6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Sister, you’re in for a long road. It’s going to be harder than you can possibly imagine. It’s going to take you to a point where you’re not sure you’re going to want to live. But I promise you, if you hang in there and keep making the choice to wake up and live you’re going to be so glad that you did.
7. It's been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? She never stopped believing that love would win.
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The post Live Inspired Podcast: Making Peace with the Unexpected (Michele Cushatt #132) appeared first on John O'Leary.