When Journalism Becomes a Calling: Adella Beaini on Faith, Trauma and Emotional Well-being
Journalist Adella Beaini joins the conversation to talk about what it really costs to carry other people's stories — and what happens when the weight of it catches up with you. From a two-year campaign exposing suicides in the defence forces to her own brush with burnout, Adella is refreshingly honest about the dark side of a purpose-driven career. She also unpacks how her Lebanese heritage and Maronite faith shape the way she reports, listens, and leads. Raw, real, and genuinely moving.
Modern Parenting and Technology: Raising Connected Kids in a Digital World
Raising kids in the digital age is one thing. Raising preteens and teenagers in it is a whole different conversation. Chehade Richa gets honest about proactive parenting, how we respond when our kids mess up, and whether social media bans actually work. Eddie brings the perspective of a father and grandfather, while Monsignor grounds it all in the bigger picture of raising secure, well-adjusted adults. Practical, warm, and full of real talk for parents in the trenches.
Road to Emmaus: Faith, Belonging & Mental Health
Being single over 35 in a community built around families isn't easy — and Rachel El Hage gets that. The founder of Road to Emmaus, a Maronite singles group, joins us to talk about what it really takes to build belonging when you don't fit the mould. They dig into faith-based friendships, the modern dating landscape, and why vulnerability might be the most underrated tool for finding your people. If you're navigating single life and craving genuine connection, this conversation is exactly where you need to be.
Redefining Success, Parenting, and Identity: What One Woman’s Story Can Teach Us All
Linda Habak — interior designer and podcast host — joins us for a raw, honest conversation about guilt, self-worth, and the cultural weight that follows success. Linda opens up about navigating postpartum anxiety, pivoting from fashion to a career in design, and what it really means to parent from faith rather than fear. If you've ever felt like your achievements came with a side of shame, this one's for you.
Caregiving, Grief & the Faith That Holds Families Together
Subdeacon Stefan Gerges carried his sister Lauren every single day. Not out of obligation — out of love. But caring for someone through grief and family challenge is never a solo journey. On Finding Sanctuary, SDS shares how caregiving shaped him, how faith kept his family together, and why community support isn't optional — it's essential.
Helping Kids Through Grief: Bridget Sakr on Loss & Healing
How do you talk to your kids about death? After losing her daughter Veronique, Bridget Sakr faced this exact challenge whilst drowning in her own grief. What she discovered about parenting through loss challenges everything we think about protecting children from pain. From weaving a loved one's memory into everyday life to building faith-based support networks, Bridget's story offers parents a powerful framework for navigating grief together. Because healing doesn't mean forgetting—it means learning to carry love forward.
Mastering Difficult Conversations and Unlocking Effective Feedback – Jacqualine Kay Raad
Most of us would rather sidestep a tough conversation than have it. But here's the problem — avoidance doesn't make difficult feedback disappear. It just lets blind spots grow. In this episode of Finding Sanctuary, leadership consultant Jacqueline Raad breaks down why the "compliment sandwich" fails, how whole body listening transforms relationships, and why the conversations we dread most are often the ones that change us the most.
Unlocking the Brain’s Healing Power: A Deep Dive into EMDR Therapy
Clinical psychologists Heyam and Hanaan Haddad break down EMDR therapy and separate fact from fiction. They explain how this powerful technique helps trauma survivors heal by engaging both sides of the brain through eye movements, tappers, and audio. The conversation explores how trauma reshapes memory and behaviour, and why EMDR's becoming a game-changer for treating anxiety, PTSD, and even addictions. Heyam and Hanaan share real success stories that'll challenge any scepticism about innovative therapies. Whether you're struggling with your own trauma or supporting someone who is, you'll walk away understanding how deep emotional healing actually works—and why it matters.
Navigating Parenting, Technology, and Faith in a Modern World
Fr Ron Hassarati and Leena Dib tackle the real challenges of raising kids in today's world. They explore how technology's reshaping the way young people connect, why consistent parenting matters more than ever, and the serious impact of issues like pornography on our youth. Fr Ron shares practical wisdom on building stronger family connections through faith and community, while the conversation digs into collective trauma and what it takes to parent with intention. This isn't theory—it's honest talk about navigating modern parenting, strengthening relationships, and raising resilient kids who can handle whatever life throws at them.
Marunite Run Club – Fitness, Friendship, Faith
Debbie and Nat chat with Marunite Run Club (Julian and Jacinta), exploring how casual running breaks barriers and fosters connection within the Maronite community. Julian and Jacinta reveal how the club, known for its focus on social interaction over speed, combats isolation by creating an inclusive space for making new friends and engaging spiritually. Discover how this unique blend of fitness, faith, and fellowship helps young adults find belonging and rekindle their connection to the Maronite faith through shared experiences and community support.
Behind the Mic: Unscripted Moments and Real Talk
Debbie Draybi, Natalie Moujalli, Eddie Reaiche, and Derrick Yeoh come together for an impromptu chat about finding peace in everyday life. They explore imposter syndrome, community, and personal growth, sharing how vulnerability and real connection foster healing. This episode highlights the power of empathy and the value of creating safe spaces for mental health conversations.
Secrets Behind The Flowers – Melissa D’Cruz
Melissa D'Cruz, a renowned florist and wedding planner, who shares her transformative journey from aspiring psychologist to building a thriving business. Melissa opens up about navigating grief, overcoming personal challenges, and finding purpose in work and community service. Delve into themes of resilience, faith, and the power of connection as Melissa discusses her passion for helping those in need and the importance of creating meaningful relationships both personally and professionally.
Finding Healing: Gang Life, Addiction and Redemption – Andrew Condoleon
Andrew Condolean shares his powerful journey from gang life and addiction to faith and transformation. Raised in a fractured family and drawn into a dangerous world, Andrew reflects on the turning points that led him to seek change. The conversation explores masculinity, resilience, and the deep human need for belonging. Through honesty and reflection, Andrew offers hope to those struggling with their past, showing that personal growth and redemption are always possible.
Embrace Holistic Health: Small Steps to Transform Your Life
Debbie Draybi and Natalie Moujalli chat with Berta Azzi, a holistic health coach, about her journey through health challenges and the power of holistic healing. They explore how simple, mindful changes and self-care can create lasting well-being across mind, body, and soul.
The Power of Community in Creative Industries – Dodie Jay & George John
Prominent figures in the wedding industry - Hairstylist Dodie Jay and photographer George John, discuss the pressures of their work, the importance of community, and setting boundaries between personal and professional life. Dodie shares her journey of battling cancer and how it shaped her career, while George reflects on the joy of capturing life’s most meaningful moments. Themes of authenticity, resilience, and mental health, offering insights for creatives navigating demanding careers are explored. This candid conversation provides valuable advice on balancing passion, well-being, and success in the wedding industry.
Celebrating Milestones: Jade El- Choueifati and Finding Balance
Jade El Choueifati, Monsignor Shora and Natalie explore the role of celebrations in the Maronite community and their impact on mental well-being. They discuss maintaining joy amidst wedding planning stressors, navigating family dynamics, and the importance of focusing on the purpose behind celebrations. Highlighting examples from his wedding emceeing experience, Jade underscores the value of perspective, community, and faith at life’s milestones.
Beyond Presents: Redefining the Spirit of Christmas Through Generosity – Helena Roumanus
Discover Helena's inspiring tradition of redirecting holiday gifts to support young mothers in crisis shelters, emphasizing gratitude, community, and compassion. Learn the importance of having open conversations with children on challenging topics, fostering understanding and empathy. This episode serves as a reminder of the power of pausing amidst the holiday rush to reflect, connect, and extend generosity to those in need.
The Impact of Forgiveness on Ourselves and Our Relationships – Leila Abdallah
Join Debbie, Natalie, and Monsignor Shora for a heart-to-heart with Leila Abdallah. Unveil a remarkable journey of forgiveness born from an unthinkable tragedy. Witness how forgiving and community support can heal wounds, foster peace, and create enduring legacies. Hear directly from Leila herself, as she opens up about navigating grief, preserving relationships, and the role faith and forgiveness play in her life. This episode is a beacon of hope, shedding light on the power of forgiveness and its potential to shape our lives and relationships.
Redefining Identity Through Cross-Cultural Lens – Mental Health Series Pt3
Explore how our individual journeys shape our collective healing and learn strategies for fostering meaningful relationships within the community. Discover the balance between celebrating our unique identities and building a supportive, inclusive environment.
Exploring Mindfulness In A Fast Paced World – Mental Health Series Pt1
This post, we touch the themes of mindfulness, gratitude, and [...]
Addiction Series Pt 3 – Creating Safe Spaces for Help-Seeking
We discuss the impact of addiction on families and the desperate measures they take to seek help. We explore the loss of connection and trust that occurs when a loved one is struggling with addiction, and the difficulty of opening up and seeking support. The importance of creating a safe and judgment-free space for individuals to share their struggles and find healing is emphasised. With compassion and empathy, there is hope and encouragement for those grappling with addiction.
Addiction Series Pt 2 – From Addiction to Freedom: How to Reclaim Your Life
This post explores the signs that lead individuals to seek help, the importance of building awareness, and the role of trust in the recovery process. We discuss the five-point plan for overcoming addiction, which includes spiritual support, therapy, lifestyle changes, transparency with loved ones, and a support network.
Addiction Series Pt1 – Breaking the Stigma and Embracing Recovery
Addiction and the underlying factors are complex and varied. Discover the importnce of seeking help and understand addiction does not define a person's entire identity.
Navigating Relationship Tensions: Strategies for Healthy Conflict and Avoiding Emotional Avoidance
Explore strategies for navigating conflict, such as finding the right time to have difficult conversations and creating a safe space for open communication.
Finding Sanctuary: Reflecting on Breaks and the Power of Mindset
Discover the importance of taking a holiday and the challenges of balancing family expectations and personal needs. The conversation also touches on the mindset of a holiday and the benefits of detaching from work and technology
Parenting Through the Teenage Years: Navigating Challenges and Building Trust
Parenting teenagers can be a challenging and messy period, filled with hormonal changes, physical transformations, and a strong desire for a sense of belonging. As parents, it is crucial to create a safe space for open communication and understanding.
New Year, New Perspective – Setting Achievable New Year’s Resolutions
Setting achievable New Year’s resolutions requires a mindset that embraces growth, learning from failure, and exploring new paths.
True Spirit of Christmas: Letting Love and Kindness Guide Us Through the Holidays
Debbie, Eddie and Natalie chat about the challenges people face during the holiday season. They discuss the pressure to fit in and wear masks, the exhaustion that comes from trying to meet expectations, and the importance of belonging and being authentic. They also touch on the impact of grief and loss during this time and offer strategies for finding comfort and allowing oneself to feel emotions. The conversation emphasises the need to prioritize mental health and find sanctuary in the midst of the holiday chaos.
From Fear to Trust: Creating a Safe Environment for Children to Learn and Thrive
Debbie, Natalie and Eddie discuss the power of apologising to children and taking accountability for mistakes, which builds trust and teaches children the value of apologies and self-reflection. They also highlight the need for parents to meet their children where they are developmentally and communicate effectively to establish a strong connection.
Motherhood – Instinctive Parenting and Self Confidence
Eddie emphasizes the importance of trusting one's instincts and the unique relationship between a mother and her child. Natalie shares her personal experience of feeling inadequate as a mother when her second child didn't fit the "textbook" mold. The conversation highlights the need for self-confidence and self-compassion in navigating the ups and downs of parenting.
Men’s Shed – Father Wounds and Father Figures
Men’s groups have emerged as a powerful force in breaking the silence and building connections among men. By providing a safe space for men to share their struggles, these groups help break down taboos and redefine societal expectations. Through open discussions on addiction, work-life balance, and vulnerability, men find support, hope, and the tools to become better versions of themselves.
Grief and Loss Part 4 – Living with Grief After 40 Days
This post, we reflect on the previous episodes and delve deeper into the topic of grief. Paul shares his experience of seeking professional help and the impact it had on his healing process. The conversation explores the stages of grief, the importance of finding a therapist who is a good fit, and the role of faith in coping with loss.
FOMO – Social Media and its Effects
Discover the importance of self-awareness, setting boundaries with technology, and finding joy in the present moment. Find out how to break free from the constant need to measure up and embrace the beauty of what's right in front of you.
