In this deeply moving episode of Glowing Through It, Ashley sits down with Monique to share the story of Deano Valdez—a devoted father, husband, Marine, son and friend who went missing from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Through heartfelt memories and honest conversation, Monique paints a vivid picture of Deano’s life, the pain of his absence, and the strength of a family and community determined to bring him home.

This episode goes beyond headlines, focusing on truth, awareness, and the real impact of missing persons cases. Listen as Monique offers advice for families facing similar tragedies, highlights the importance of community support, and calls for greater compassion and action.

If Deano’s story moves you, please share this episode, keep his name alive, and help spread awareness. Every voice matters in the search for answers and hope.

Resources and ways to help are included in the show notes below.

Help Find Deano Valdez Facebook Page Link : https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17GF9LUdBY/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Amazon Wishlist For The Valdez Family Link : https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/1Z2JDUEQIR1KW?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ggr-subnav-share_6HT95QPR4TVSZFCG9JNT&language=en-US&fbclid=IwdGRjcANuGGNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHsXLsbt2A62fNV46hRWDow1GI-AsYvXNv2HKO1xuQIve3EMckdzUhwPbIJK6_aem_k53r2c8SyICz3dog4yi2Gw

GoFundme Bring Deano Home: Supporting Vikki and Her Family Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/bring-deano-home-supporting-vikki-and-her-family

Angels’ Voices Silenced No More Reward Fund Link: https://givebutter.com/deanovaldez

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Are we chasing perfection that doesn’t even exist? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of unattainable beauty standards—where filters, photo edits, and social media illusions are shaping how we see ourselves and each other.

Special guest Gretchen Andrew joins me to reveal how her Facetune portraits go beyond the surface, exposing the invisible scars that social media leaves on our mental health. Through her art, Gretchen challenges the fantasy of flawless beauty and sparks a conversation about the real impact of digital distortion.

Join us as we unpack the hidden mental health costs of comparing ourselves to faces and bodies that have been digitally modified beyond reality. Why do we set our expectations based on people who don’t even exist? How does this constant exposure impact our self-worth, confidence, and well-being?

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to look “perfect” or wondered how these impossible standards are affecting our minds, this is the conversation you can’t afford to miss. Tune in for honest stories, expert insights, and a much-needed reality check on beauty in the digital age.

Hit play and join the movement toward authenticity, your mental health will thank you!

Follow the show on Instagram @glowinthroughit.beauty

Find and connect with Gretchen on Instagram @gretchenandrew

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Episode Description – Part 2

In this powerful continuation, Ashley Knight and Erica dive even deeper into faith, healing, and the courage to question tradition. Part 2 explores the meaning of “Amen,” the origins of spiritual practices, and the tension between church teachings and personal experience. The conversation tackles controversial topics like yoga, indigenous spirituality, and the role of women in faith communities, all while challenging listeners to think for themselves and embrace open-mindedness.

Ashley and Erica share personal stories of transformation, discuss generational trauma, and reflect on the importance of building a relationship with God that transcends dogma. The episode’s emotional core centers on the metaphor of the church as the bride, the responsibility to speak up for what’s right, and the healing power of community.

Whether you’re questioning old beliefs or seeking inspiration to live more authentically, this episode offers raw honesty, spiritual insight, and a call to bridge divides with compassion.

Tune in for:

• Honest dialogue about faith, tradition, and personal growth
• The intersection of indigenous and Christian spirituality
• The “bride” metaphor and what it means for community responsibility
• Stories of healing, courage, and reclaiming spiritual power

Listen now and join the conversation!

Follow us on Instagram @glowinthroughit.beauty

Follow our guest Erica Vigil-Flores on Instagram @chimayoseed

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