Jenni’s Uncensored Pennies

Bet on Me: Beverly Lowery’s Leap from Small-Town Fears to Japan

In this episode Jenni speaks with Beverly Lowery about growing up in a small Texas town, becoming a teacher and children’s book author, and using her career to travel and teach on military bases — from Fort Bragg to Atsugi, Japan.
They discuss Beverly’s challenges and growth: overcoming fear, uprooting her family, cultural surprises in Japan, health and education differences, and her new role as a reading specialist — a story about betting on yourself and embracing new possibilities.

Leaving the Spotlight for Love: Monse’s Brave Leap

In this bilingual episode Jennifer interviews Montserrat (Monse) Hernández Garcilita, a former radio DJ from Celaya, Mexico, who left a successful career in 2003 to start a new life in the United States for love. Monse shares the fears, sacrifices, and unexpected rewards of moving countries, blending cultures, and building a family.
Now thriving as a voiceover artist, guest DJ and translator of Jenni’s Pennies into Spanish, Monse talks about resilience, faith in love, the importance of community, and practical lessons she learned along the way.

Chasing More vs. Finding Peace: Redefining 'Having It All'

In this episode Jenni and Cameron reflect on the phrase "having it all," sharing honest stories about career pressure, relationships, parenthood, social media comparisons, and spiritual growth. They explore how true fulfillment comes from mindset, gratitude, balance, and intentional living rather than constant accumulation.
Listen for personal examples, insights on setting boundaries, and practical reminders to enjoy the journey, prioritize what matters, and reconnect with what brings lasting peace and purpose.

Breaking the Silence: A Man's Journey from Trauma to Therapy

Jenni and Cameron reflect on men’s mental health month and a candid conversation with Greyson, who shares his experience of childhood sexual abuse and the long road to healing through therapy.
The episode explores vulnerability, changing harmful narratives, building resilience, the role of nutrition and therapy in recovery. It also encourages listeners to practice gratitude for the lessons gained from overcoming obstacles, share their stories and seek help.
 

Rewiring the Mind: Healing, Purpose, and Real Talk

Jenni speaks with Greyson about his path from childhood instability and long-term sexual abuse to healing through therapy, disciplined routines, mindfulness, and service in the U.S. Military.
They cover mental health diagnoses, hypersexuality, coping strategies, meditation, nutrition, and how education and relationships supported his recovery and resilience.

Against the System: One Man’s Battle to Keep His Brother

Jennifer interviews Angel Flores about his emotional five-year journey to legally adopt his younger brother Henry after years of family addiction and instability.Angel shares the practical steps, court battles with a great-grandmother and the child welfare system, the struggles with social workers and the birth mother, and the toll the process took on his life.The episode culminates with the adoption finalization in 2023, reflections on resilience, and advice for anyone considering family adoption.

From Brother to Dad: The Choice That Changed Two Lives

Jenni interviews Angel Flores about his journey adopting his younger brother, Henry, after years of family addiction and instability. Angel shares the five-year legal process, the emotional challenges of single parenting, and how his experience shaped his work empowering youth.
The episode explores themes of resilience, breaking generational cycles, asking for help, and intentionally showing up for children to create a safer, more hopeful future.

Beards, Breadwinners & Bottled Feelings: A Raw Conversation on Masculinity

Hosts Jenni and Cameron dive into men's mental health, debating no-shave November, beards as identity, dating expectations, and the pressure on men to hide emotions.
They share personal stories about vulnerability, community, therapy, and practical ways men can seek support and connect with others.

From Layoff to Liftoff: How LaShon Turned Job Loss into Serendipity Travel

Jennifer interviews LaShon Sneed, founder of Serendipity Travel, about how multiple layoffs pushed her to leave medical billing and build a travel business that makes trips affordable and accessible, especially for people who think travel is out of reach.
LaShon shares candid stories about coaching first-time travelers, running group trips, setting professional boundaries, and the realities of entrepreneurship while pursuing her goal to create unforgettable experiences and support her family.

Unintentional Leaders: How Small Acts Spark Big Influence

Hosts Jennifer Marie Martinez and Cameron Bales explore how people become leaders among peers without seeking titles — through simple acts of trust, vulnerability, and showing up. The episode shares real-life examples from family dynamics, the workplace, and the military, and discusses mentorship, setting the tone by example, delegation, and avoiding burnout.
Listen for practical stories about guiding others, building trust, asking the right questions, and how small choices can inspire growth in those around you.