The F.E.E.L Podcast
Episode: Embracing Authenticity & Emotional Wellness with Caleb Ledford
Host: Melissa Crook
Guest: Caleb Ledford
In this powerful episode of The F.E.E.L Podcast, Melissa Crook welcomes her brother, Caleb Ledford, an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, former collegiate athlete, and devoted family man from Tri-Cities, Washington. Caleb opens up about his journey of embracing his authentic self amidst the pressures of small-town expectations, athletic heartbreak, and emotional isolation.
From his youth exploring the forests of Southwest Washington to earning advanced degrees in nursing and conducting distinguished research on cardiovascular risk in athletes, Caleb’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and growth. He shares candid insights on prioritizing self-care, confidently setting healthy boundaries, and nurturing both emotional and physical wellness.
Listeners will be inspired by Caleb’s dedication to living unapologetically true to himself, returning to his “why,” and embracing all the complex layers that make him whole—both as a healthcare professional and a father.
How to prioritize emotional health alongside physical health
Setting and maintaining confident personal boundaries
Overcoming pressure from external expectations and cultural norms
The importance of living authentically and unapologetically
Embracing your multi-layered identity for holistic healing
How self-care fuels resilience in high-pressure careers and family life
Caleb grew up in Castle Rock, Washington, surrounded by nature and the outdoors. A former three-sport varsity athlete, he faced the challenge of balancing athletic success with internal struggles and emotional isolation. Caleb earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Central Washington University and later pursued a Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in Nursing at Johns Hopkins University. His research focuses on identifying risk factors for sudden cardiovascular death in athletes. Caleb is a husband and father of two children, committed to embracing life’s layers through faith, family, and personal growth.
Prioritizing Self-Care – 5:58
Confidently Setting Boundaries – 15:47
Emotional & Physical Health Balance – 33:32
Supporting Unapologetic Living – 46:19
Returning to Your Why – 1:03:07
Living Beyond Expectations – 1:10:08
Accepting Your Layered Self – 1:21:33
Living Out F.E.E.L. – 1:31:30
Nourishing Activities – 1:39:08
Words to Feel in Next Six Months – 1:40:56
emotional wellness for men
mental health and self-care
healthy boundaries for professionals
overcoming athletic pressure
living authentically as a man
nurse practitioner mental health advocate
family wellness and resilience
holistic health and self-acceptance
faith and emotional healing
unapologetic living podcast
🎧 Subscribe to The F.E.E.L Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform. Follow @embracinglayers and @The FEEL Podcast for more empowering conversations about emotional wellness, authenticity, and self-care.
