Brave, Bold & Unfiltered with Valerie Silveira
Life is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes downright brutal. So how do you keep going when everything falls apart? That’s exactly what we talk about on Brave, Bold & Unfiltered. This isn’t your typical “feel-good” podcast—it’s raw, real, and unfiltered. My son Sean and I have honest conversations about courage, resilience, grief, faith, and navigating life’s unexpected twists. Why do I care so much about this? Because I’ve lived it. My daughter Jamie was shot at 18 and miraculously survived—but that moment led to a 15-year battle with addiction that nearly destroyed both of us. Then, 12 years and 12 days...
Courage Moment: Because He Never Gets It Wrong
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy of Burn the Map: http://bit.ly/4k3UhoT
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch Valerie's videos on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn about Exclusive Private Mentoring
📚 Learn More About Valerie’s Books
💬 Stay Connected on Social:
Fight Your Beast As If Your In the Battle You're Already In
n this episode, Valerie Silveira discusses the importance of recognizing and confronting the spiritual battles we face in life. She emphasizes that ignoring these struggles can lead to emotional turmoil and encourages listeners to actively fight against their personal 'beasts,' whether they manifest as grief, addiction, or self-doubt. Valerie shares her own experiences with loss and the necessity of grieving while also advocating for resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Ultimately, she inspires listeners to take charge of their lives and make a positive impact on others.
Takeaways
There's a war going on...Courage Moment: Showing Up For the Battle Your'e Already In
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy of Burn the Map: http://bit.ly/4k3UhoT
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch Valerie's videos on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn about Exclusive Private Mentoring
📚 Learn More About Valerie’s Books
💬 Stay Connected on Social:
Why Not You: Be the Reason Someone Else Believes They Can
In this episode of Brave, Bold and Unfiltered, Valerie Silveira reflects on the importance of courage and the influence we have on others, especially in times of darkness. She shares personal stories about her daughter Jamie, the impact of addiction, and the lessons learned through grief and resilience. Valerie introduces her new initiative, Unbreakable Kids, aimed at empowering the next generation. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the significance of making choices that leave a positive legacy and encourages listeners to stand up and be role models for others.
takeaways
Courage is essential in influencing others positively...Finding Purpose When the Hits Keep Coming: With Rich Silveira
When life comes at you for more than two decades, you either crumble under the weight of it, or you find purpose in the pain.
In this episode, Valerie is joined by her husband, Rich, for an unscripted, spur-of-the-moment conversation about life, dreams, maps burning, and purpose.
If this message resonates, be sure to subscribe, share, and comment! 💜
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy of Burn the Map: http://bit.ly/4k3UhoT
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Val...
Burn the Map EP 13: Freedom
This is the episode that can change everything for you. This is YOUR time. Your moment—to choose Freedom.
If this episode resonates with you, be sure to subscribe and watch on YouTube. Get a copy of my latest book, Burn the Map. Importantly, share with someone who needs freedom, hope, and courage. 💜
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy of Burn the Map: http://bit.ly/4k3UhoT
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more about Warrio...
Burn the Map EP 12: The Journey of a Lifetime
In this episode of Brave, Bold and Unfiltered, Valerie Silveira discusses the themes of resilience and courage in the face of life's challenges. Drawing from her personal experiences, she emphasizes the importance of choosing courage over fear, finding joy amidst pain, and the healing power of laughter. Valerie shares her journey through grief and the ongoing struggles her family faces, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys and find meaning in their experiences.
Takeaways
Life presents us with inevitable challenges that we must face.Courage is a choice that we must make repeatedly.Finding joy in...Burn the Map EP 11: Ignite the Spark
In this episode, Valerie Silveira discusses themes from her book 'Burn the Map', focusing on the importance of igniting hope and courage in oneself and others, especially during difficult times. She shares personal stories of struggle, resilience, and the transformative power of choosing to inspire others despite one's own challenges. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being a light for others and the impact of personal growth on relationships and community.
- It's important to share your story to inspire others.
- You don't have to wait for life to get better to act.
<...Burn the Map Ep 10: Unleash the Warrior
Ever feel like you don't know where to begin to live courageously? In this episode, you will be inspired by the importance of courage, being yourself, and so much more.
We also have a bonus clip with April, one of the Warriors featured in my latest book, Burn the Map.
If this episode inspires you, please share! Spread the hope. 💜
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy of Burn the Map: http://bit.ly/4k3UhoT
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
Burn the Map Ep 9: Your Heart Is Built For This
Have you ever thought your heart's not built for what you're going through? In this episode, Sean and I talk about the courageous heart. And this week we have a BONUS session where Sean interviews my husband (his step-dad), Rich, about a huge loss Rich sustained as a teenager. Sean and Rich have a shared grief, but they also have a shared courage. P.S. We had no plan for Rich's interview and no idea how emotional it would be. That's the price we pay for love—and it's worth it. 💜
Your story matters, so live it coura...
Burn the Map Ep 8: Forged in the Fire
Nobody signs up for adversity. We do everything we can to avoid it. But no matter how hard we try, storms, setbacks, and fire will find us. The good news? You weren’t just built to survive the fire—you were forged by it.
In Episode 8 of the Burn the Map series, I share the lessons from Chapter Seven, Forged in the Fire. From sea turtles struggling to reach the ocean, to the minefield moments that shake us, this episode is about how adversity doesn’t just test us—it reveals and strengthens us.
This episode...
Burn the Map Ep 7: The Storms That Shape Us
Life’s storms come in many forms—grief, betrayal, loss, health battles, unexpected change—and they rarely show up when we’re ready. Some storms give no warning. Others we see coming from miles away. And some rage on for years.
In Episode 7 of the Burn the Map series, I share stories and lessons from Chapter Six, The Storms That Shape Us. We’ll talk about the different kinds of life storms, what they leave behind, and how they can shape us into overcomers rather than victims.
In this episode:
Earthquakes: The storms with no warning...Burn the Map Ep 6: Let Go or Be Dragged
In this episode of 'Brave Bold and Unfiltered', Valerie Silveira discusses the themes of her book 'Burn the Map', focusing on the importance of letting go of control and embracing life's uncertainties. She shares personal stories and insights, emphasizing that true strength lies in acceptance and the ability to manage one's thoughts, words, actions, and feelings. The conversation explores the impact of labels, the necessity of releasing unhealthy relationships, and the freedom that comes from surrendering control.
Takeaways:
Letting go is essential for personal growth.You can only control your thoughts, words, actions, and feelings.Life...Burn the Map Ep 5: Master the Warrior Mindset
What does it take to truly master the warrior mindset? It’s not about perfection—it’s about perspective, persistence, and the willingness to get back up no matter how many times life knocks you down.
In Episode 5 of the Burn the Map series, I talk about the habits, choices, and mindsets that keep Warriors moving forward, even in the face of devastating loss.
This episode also includes a powerful bonus clip from Shawnie, one of the Warriors featured in Burn the Map, who faced two heartbreaking losses within a single month. Her “gratitude attitude” will chall...
Burn the Map Ep 4: The Big Fat Lie
The big fat lie we’ve all believed? That courage is reserved for the obviously brave. In reality, courage is built in the middle of fear and uncertainty—and it belongs to everyone.
In Episode 4 of the Burn the Map series, Sean and I sit down to talk about Chapter Three of the book and why courage isn’t about being fearless or perfect. We dive into the messy, raw moments where real bravery is born and share how this chapter’s Warriors redefined what courage looks like in their own lives.
In this...
Burn the Map Ep 3: Fear Is Killing Us
Fear isn’t just an emotion—it’s a thief. It steals dreams, relationships, and opportunities. In Episode 3 of the Burn the Map series, I dive into Chapter Two of the book: Fear Is Killing Us.
This episode is about recognizing the Beast of fear, how it shows up in your life, and how it silently convinces you to settle for less.
In this episode, Sean & I share:
Fear isn’t just an emotion—it’s a thief. It steals dreams, relationships, and opportunities. In Episode 3 of the Burn the Map series, I dive into Ch...
Burn the Map Ep 2: When Life Burns the Map—Or You Do
What happens when the life you planned suddenly burns to the ground—or when you realize you lit the match yourself?
In Episode 2 of the Burn the Map series, I dive into Chapter One of the book and the moments that change everything. From the first time my daughter Jamie was shot… to Sandy’s wake-up call… to the kind of fear that paralyzes you when the map disappears—this episode explores the fires we don’t ask for and the ones we start without realizing.
We don’t always choose the fire—but we can choose what...
Burn the Map Ep 1: Why I Wrote the Book
Discover the real story behind Burn the Map—and what it means to live with unbreakable courage when life doesn’t go as planned.
In this kickoff episode of the 14-part Burn the Map podcast series, I share why I wrote the book and what I hope it unlocks for you. I’ll take you inside the slow unraveling of my life, my daughter Jamie’s addiction and murder, and how I found the strength to keep going—not with a plan, but with raw, imperfect courage.
You'll also get a preview of what’s ahead in the...
Coming Soon: The Burn the Map Podcast Series
Coming Soon: The Burn the Map Podcast Series
Starting this Wednesday, join me for a 14-week series built around my new book, Burn the Map—starting with an introduction, diving into each of the 12 chapters, and closing with a powerful final reflection.
This isn’t just a chapter-by-chapter breakdown. It’s the raw, behind-the-scenes truth—the unfiltered stories, the deeper insights, and the moments that didn’t make it into the book. You’ll also hear from some of the people featured in the pages, including my son Sean and my husband Rich.
Whether you’...
The Story Behind the Story: A Q&A with Valerie
In this special episode, I answer the questions people ask me most about my personal journey through heartbreak, addiction, grief, and ultimately—healing.
I share the lessons I learned as I tried to navigate my daughter’s addiction, the unimaginable loss that followed, and how I found the courage to choose hope and growth, even when fear tried to take over.
If you’ve ever felt like your map burned and you didn’t know where to go next, this one’s for you.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📚Grab a copy o...
Donna’s Warrior Heart: Love, Loss, and Unbreakable Strength
When the unthinkable happens, some people fall apart—and others become the light for the rest of us.
Donna is that light.
In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Donna—one of the 12 Warriors featured in Burn the Map—to talk about what it means to love without limits, to face heartbreak with open arms, and to stand strong even when your heart is breaking.
We explore her journey through the addiction nightmare with her son, Anthony, the moment she prepared for what no mother should have to, and how she now uses h...
We Needed a Laugh… Maybe You Do Too
We’ve laughed in hospital rooms, funerals, courtrooms, and the middle of absolute chaos. Was it inappropriate? Maybe. Did it save us? Absolutely.
In this episode, Sean and I share some of our funniest—and most embarrassing—stories. But this isn’t just a highlight reel of awkward moments. It’s a deep dive into why laughter is more than a coping mechanism. It’s a lifeline.
When the world feels heavy and nothing makes sense, laughter can cut through the darkness and remind us we’re still alive. So yes, we probably shouldn’t have laughed… bu...
Forged in the Fire: The Hard Stuff Is Where You’re Refined
We spend so much of life trying to avoid the fire.
But what if it’s the very thing shaping you into someone stronger?
In this episode of Brave, Bold & Unfiltered, I talk about the pain, pressure, and heat that can feel unbearable—but often become the forge for our strength.
You don’t become unshakable without going through some shaking.
You don’t develop courage without walking through fear.
If you’re in the fire right now, this one’s for you.
Your story matters, so live it cour...
Burn the Map: Why Life Demands Courage and Rarely Follows the Plan
In this episode—just one day after the release of Burn the Map—Sean and I sit down to talk about why we keep trying to follow plans that were never guaranteed, and how courage becomes our compass when life blows those plans to pieces. We dig into stories from the book and from our lives, including moments where the path disappeared completely—and how we kept moving anyway.
This is the heart of the message: Life rarely goes as planned… but that doesn’t mean you’re lost. Sometimes, the most powerful version of you is found in the...
Unshakable Mona: A Light That Reaches Across the Globe
Mona may live in a small village, but her story is anything but small. In this episode, she opens up about her chapter in Burn the Map—how she overcame early trauma, stopped chasing an outdated version of her life, and began walking with courage, clarity, and self-awareness.
Her light is quiet, but it’s powerful—and this conversation will stay with you long after the episode ends.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more abo...
Pain to Perspective: Sean’s Health Scare and What It Taught Us
When life throws you into a storm, you either sink—or you fight to find the lesson in the chaos.
In this powerful episode, Sean and I talk through the recent health scare that turned our lives upside down. From ER visits and sleepless nights to emotional and physical pain, we faced it together—but not without fear, frustration, and a whole lot of prayer.
This isn’t just a story about what happened—it’s about what it taught us. About control, compassion, perspective, and the courage to find gratitude in the middle of uncertaint...
It’s About the Climb: How Growth Happens One Step at a Time
We all want to reach the top—of the mountain, the healing journey, the next breakthrough. But life rarely hands us a smooth trail or a perfect view.
In this episode, I share what my two-year-old great-niece, a stubborn friend in white shorts, and a few hard-earned mountain climbs taught me about the real point of it all: the climb.
Whether you’re stuck at the trailhead or halfway up a messy slope, this episode is a reminder that the transformation happens step by step, not just when you reach the summit.
If you’...
Let Go or Be Dragged
Let Go or Be Dragged:
Why Releasing Control Is the Only Way Forward
Letting go isn’t easy—it feels unnatural. We cling to people, expectations, and control because it gives us a sense of safety. But what if that white-knuckle grip is the very thing dragging us under?
In this episode, I share how my son Sean’s innocent childhood words became a profound metaphor for how tightly we all try to hold on. I also open up about Shawnie’s loss and the illusion of control that shattered when tragedy hit.
We...
Scared, Shaken, and Still Standing: When Fear Shows Up and Your Weapons Come Out
When your worst fears start knocking on the door, it's easy to feel like you're losing your grip.
In this raw and real episode, I talk about the terrifying possibility of losing my only child—and what it’s like when nothing seems to get better, no matter how hard you pray.
I’ll walk you through how I handled two of the scariest weeks of my life: what I felt, what I did, and how I turned to bold prayers, miracle-level faith, and my gratitude box like never before.
If you’ve ever fel...
It's OK to Be Scared: Fighting Back Even When You're Scared, Sick, and Worn Out
This week’s episode wasn’t planned — because life doesn’t always give us time to plan. Valerie shares from a raw place about fear, exhaustion, and the importance of rest. If you’re in the fight of your life, this is your reminder that it’s okay to pause… that resting is still fighting. The Beast wants you tired and discouraged. Don’t give him the win.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more about Warrior Freedom Ment...
Loving Through the Fire: An Insider-Outsider’s Perspective on Courage & Commitment
What does it take to stand by someone as they navigate unimaginable loss, grief, and healing? My daughter-in-law, Nicki, joins me for a raw and powerful conversation about what it’s like to love and commit to someone who is walking through fire.
When she met Sean, all she knew was that he had a sister deep in addiction and a lot of anger about it. Less than a year later, Jamie was murdered, and Nicki suddenly found herself inside a world of grief, justice battles, and healing that she never could have imagined.
This is...
Uncertainty Is For Certain
Uncertainty Is For Certain
We crave certainty and security. We plan, we prepare, we try to get it all “right”—but the truth is, certainty is a lie. And sometimes it holds us back more than it helps.
In this episode, I’m sharing what it looks like to move forward without clarity or guarantees—and why living courageously has never been about having all the answers. If you’ve been waiting for a sign… this might be it.
Your story matters, so live it courageously.
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video versi...
Being Brave Doesn't Mean Fearless: Choosing Courage is the Key
Being brave doesn’t mean you’re not afraid—it means you choose courage anyway. In this episode, Sean and I get real about what bravery looks like in everyday life. We talk about the moments that test us, the fears we don’t always admit out loud, and how courage is often a quiet, persistent choice—not a one-time act. Whether you’re facing something big or just trying to get through your day, this one’s for you.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
The Power of Perspective: How Shifting Your View Can Change Everything
Your perspective shapes everything—your mindset, your resilience, and even the way you navigate life’s biggest challenges. In this episode, we dive deep into how shifting your perspective can transform setbacks into stepping stones and struggles into lessons.
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more about Warrior Freedom Mentoring
📘 Explore Valerie’s Books
💬 Stay Connected
Thank God We Don't Have A Crystal Ball: Embracing Uncertainty and Trusting the Journey
In this reflective episode of Warriors in Hope with Valerie Silveira, we explore the longing for foresight in our lives, especially when navigating the unpredictable journey of addiction and loss. While it’s natural to wish we had a crystal ball to glimpse the future, we often find that the unknown protects us from the weight of what’s to come. Join me as we discuss the importance of living in the moment and embracing uncertainty. Through heartfelt stories and insightful reflections, we’ll uncover how accepting life’s unpredictability can lead to growth, resilience, and deeper appreciation for the present...
Faith Can Move Mountains, But Bring A Shovel: Balancing Belief with Action for Real Change
In this enlightening episode of Warriors in Hope with Valerie Silveira, we explore the powerful intersection of faith and action in the journey of supporting a loved one through addiction. While faith can inspire and uplift, it’s important to recognize that true change often requires us to get our hands dirty and do the hard work. Join me as we discuss the importance of balancing belief with practical steps to navigate the challenges we face. Through inspiring stories and actionable strategies, we’ll uncover how to harness our faith as a driving force while also being proactive in our heal...
When Holding On Holds You Back: Why Sometimes You Have to Burn It Down to Build It Back
🔥 Are you holding on to something that’s actually holding YOU back? In this episode of Brave, Bold & Unfiltered, I’m getting real about the moment I realized I had to burn it down to build again—and why sometimes the only way forward is to let go of what’s keeping you stuck.
If you've ever felt guilty for walking away from something—even when you knew it was draining you—this episode is for you. Burning it down doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you care enough to stop burning yourself out.
🚀 Ready to sto...
Finding Faith In The Storm: How Challenges Strengthen Our Belief
Life’s storms have a way of shaking our foundations—but they can also rebuild them. In this episode, Sean and I have an open, heartfelt conversation about faith. Sean shares his journey of finding faith again after losing it, while I talk about how my faith has been strengthened through life’s toughest battles. Whether you're questioning, searching, or holding onto faith with both hands, this conversation is for you.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more...
The Line Between Selfless and Self-Destructive: Why Helping Doesn’t Mean Losing Yourself
In this episode of Warriors in Hope, I reflect on an important realization in my journey—the distinction between being selfless and losing oneself. It’s noble to be selfless, but when we lie down in the muck and mire with others, we risk our own well-being. Through my story and insights, I’ll explore how to walk the line between compassion and self-destruction, and why the world needs each of us to stay strong. We are proof that resilience is possible, and our strength can be the light that keeps us—and others—moving forward. Join me as I discuss th...
Step Into Your Strength: Why Not You? Why Not Now?
What if the strength you’re searching for is already within you? What if you are the one meant to rise, lead, and show others the way? In this episode, we’re talking about stepping into your strength—not just for yourself, but for those who need to see a warrior in action. The world needs more role models of courage and hope, and that starts with YOU.
Your story matters, so live it courageously!
📌 Helpful Links & Resources
▶️ Watch the video version on YouTube
🌐 Visit Valerie’s Website
💪 Learn more about Warrior Fr...
