Sick Burn Podcast

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This week on The Sick Burn Podcast, we’re bringing you special bonus episode: a live panel straight from San Diego Comic-Con 2025 — “I’m Me & It’s This Game’s Fault!” 

Hosted by Kurosh Jozavi of Savepoint Stories, this heartfelt, funny, and sometimes surprising conversation dives into how video games shape who we are. Alongside an incredible group of panelists (including me, Thomas Craig), we explore the games that mirror our identities, forge connections, and sometimes even change the course of our lives. From nostalgia and laughter to deep reflections on memory, identit...

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At first glance, G. Michael Hopf is a USA Today bestselling author. But behind the shelves of books lies a life shaped by combat, childhood trauma, and the pursuit of identity. A former U.S. Marine, now husband and father, Michael’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the courage to embrace his true self. 

In this conversation, we talk about the struggles of finding identity, the scars of loss, reframing pain into perspective, and the freedom that comes when you finally own your story. From battlefield lessons to the wri...

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Joe Dimeo’s life changed forever after a devastating car crash at just 18 years old that left him with burns over 80% of his body. In 2020, he became the first person in the world to survive a face and double hand transplant — a true medical miracle that gave him a second chance at life. 

But Joe’s story isn’t only about surviving the impossible. It’s about unshakable confidence, resilience, and how sharing his journey online led to an unexpected connection — meeting his now-wife, Jessica. His story is one of resilience, hope, and red...

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Kevin Mokuahi’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t about never falling — it’s about getting back up, again and again, with more heart, more humor, and more hope than ever before. As a Parkinson’s advocate, endurance cyclist, and community leader, Kevin brings an incredible perspective on what it means to live fully, even in the aftermath of a life-altering diagnosis. 

In this episode, we talk about navigating identity after trauma, the role of community in healing, and the power of faith. Kevin’s unshakable spirit and honesty will...

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Dr. Daniel E. Kennedy’s work is proof that storytelling can be a lifeline for people in their darkest moments. As a Doctor of Social Work, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, and award-winning filmmaker, Daniel has dedicated his career to using film as a tool for healing, hope, and social change. 

His latest documentary, 10 Minutes 2 Live, is a powerful exploration of suicide, survival, and the courage it takes to keep living.In this episode, we talk about the role of storytelling in suicide prevention, why listening can be the most powerful act...

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Gabe Estrada’s story is proof that passion and perseverance can take you farther than you ever imagined. After immigrating from Mexico, Gabe built a life rooted in family, drive, and creativity. By day, he’s an attorney and business owner. By night, he’s become one of the world’s most respected Star Wars collectors and creators — channeling his love of the galaxy far, far away into a community that inspires thousands. 

In this episode, we talk about humble beginnings, the hustle it takes to chase big dreams, and how fandom can...

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After losing his wife to cancer, Danny Lesslie found himself in a season of unlayering—grief, job loss, financial hardship, and the weight of fatherhood all hitting at once. But instead of shutting down, Danny chose to move with meaning. In this episode, we talk about what happens when everything you cling to for stability is stripped away, how faith shaped his healing, and what it means to rebuild from the inside out. Danny’s story is one of heartbreak, honesty, and the quiet strength that comes from walking through the fire—and still...

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At just 17 years old, Garrison Redd’s life changed in an instant. But that moment didn’t stop him — it became the beginning of a new mission. Today, Garrison is a Paralympian, elite powerlifter, Team USA adaptive climber, motivational speaker, author, and an advocate for purpose-driven life. 

In this episode, Garrison shares how he found strength after a spinal cord injury, built a career at the highest levels of powerlifting, climbing, and fashion, and turned his journey into a mission to help others. His story is a powerful reminder that purpose often c...

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In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and to celebrate three months of The Sick Burn Podcast (Yee!), host Thomas Craig VIII takes the mic solo to reflect on the journey so far. From sharing stories of resilience and healing to laughing through the scars with incredible guests, this episode is both a thank-you and a look ahead. 

Thomas opens up about why this month means so much to him personally, what he's learned since launching the podcast, and how storytelling continues to be a powerful tool in recovery. Whether you’ve...

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In March 2021, Rebecca Koltun’s life changed in an instant. A catastrophic skiing accident left her paralyzed from the neck down—but that’s not where her story ends. From hospital beds to speaking stages, Rebecca has become a living testament to resilience, humor, and the power of showing up anyway. In this episode, Rebecca shares how she rebuilt her life post-injury, what drives her every day, and why laughter is one of her greatest survival tools. It’s a raw, real, and unexpectedly uplifting conversation about independence, identity, and finding joy when everythi...

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Aloha and welcome to The Sick Burn Podcast, where we explore the bright side of life’s darkest moments. Today’s episode flips the script as Cristina Craig takes over the mic to interview her husband—our very own host, Thomas Craig. From surviving a catastrophic plane crash to rebuilding his life piece by piece, Thomas opens up about his journey through trauma, resilience, and rediscovering joy. This conversation goes deeper than ever before, blending vulnerability, humor, and love. Get ready to learn more about the man behind the mic—and the fire that kee...

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Marshall Hugh isn’t just the frontman of the Marshall Law Band—he’s a movement. From uplifting protestors with music in Seattle’s CHOP zone to crafting a genre-blending hip-hop album that evolved into a Pulitzer-nominated project, Marshall’s story is a blueprint for purpose-driven art. In this episode, we dive into how music became his protest, how love became his compass, and why unity and action remain at the heart of his mission. Whether he's organizing Culture Fest, sharing the stage with activists, or speaking truth through hip-hop, Marshall reminds us: love is th...

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In this powerful episode, we're honored to welcome John Pendleton, a burn survivor and beacon of resilience. Once a blue-collar worker who faced a life-threatening electrical accident, John now inspires others with his journey from harrowing adversity to hope. Dive into his story as he shares how he overcame immense physical and emotional challenges, transforming his ordeal into a spark of hope and a source of profound inspiration. Join us to hear John discuss his recovery, his role as a husband and father, and his mission to promote workplace safety and burn awareness. 

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In this episode of the Sick Burn Podcast, we're thrilled to introduce Julian Williams, a Native Hawaiian pro surfer, creative spirit, and community volunteer who champions diversity in the surfing world. Julian's journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. After facing considerable challenges, including racism and the pressures of professional surfing, Julian has used his platform to advocate for black surfers and promote inclusivity within the sport. His story is one of courage and commitment as he continues to inspire and lead change within his community...

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Today, we’re honored to welcome Neil Karstetter—a paragliding pilot, devoted husband, badass videographer, and inspiring survivor. Neil’s life took a dramatic turn following a catastrophic paragliding accident that nearly left him permanently disabled. In this episode, Neil shares his harrowing journey from the precipice of despair to a renewed sense of life through the steadfast support of his wife and the newfound perspective he gained. Neil's story is not just about survival; it's about transforming profound challenges into a source of strength and resilience. Join us for a powerful conversation about...

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Today, we’re delighted to have Jenny Messing with us—a culinary artist, deeply caring mother, loving wife, and an all-around badass. Jenny is the creative force behind @thelittlejemkitchen, known for its popular lunch pop-ups. This was a stark change from her previous life working at a global sports brand. In this episode, Jenny shares her unexpected journey into the world of culinary arts, a passion she never knew existed until she plunged headfirst into the deep end, leaving her secure yet soul-sucking corporate job behind. Get ready to be inspired by her uniq...

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Aloha, and welcome to another episode of 'The Sick Burn Podcast!' where we explore the bright side of life’s darkest moments. In this episode, we are excited to feature CT—a comedian, actor, and a beacon of laughter in the face of adversity. CT's journey from battling severe depression to becoming a leading voice in comedy offers a unique perspective on how humor can be a powerful tool for healing and connection. Join us as CT shares his transformative insights on turning pain into punchlines and how comedy has been his gate...

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Aloha and welcome to first ever 'The Sick Burn Podcast!' Where we explore the bright side of life’s darkest moments. Today, we’re thrilled to have Christelle Ambr with us— writer, speaker, coach, and a survivor with a story that inspires resilience and transformation. From surviving the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia to overcoming challenges with addiction, Christelle has not only reshaped her life but now helps others understand the dynamics of masculine and feminine energy. This conversation was truly a beautiful journey. So get ready for some powerful insights and transformative wisdom.