Episode 118: From Brain Injury to Artistic Breakthrough: Cheri Carandanis' Story

After two traumatic brain injuries, everything changed for Cheri Carandanis. She was forced to give up a distinguished 25-year career as a critical care flight nurse in the U.S. military, where her identity was deeply intertwined with her profession. Cheri faced unimaginable challenges, but when prescribed creativity to heal damaged brain pathways, her rehabilitation became a lifeline. Art became her new calling, and it led to a profound path to self-discovery and healing. When I heard Cheri's story inside Studio Elite, I knew I had to share it with the world. And trust me, my conversation with her is not one you want to miss! Make sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss a thing! And don't forget to come hang with me on Instagram @jodie_king_. Interested in being a guest on a future episode of Honest Art? Email me at amy@jodieking.com! Resources mentioned: Learn more about Cheri's art: https://www.carandanisfineart.com/ Stay in touch with Cheri on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carandanisfineart/ Stay in touch with Cheri on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carandanisfineart Learn more about Studio Elite: https://www.jodiekingart.com/studioelite Learn more about the Honest Art Society: https://www.jodiekingart.com/has Join me at my Santa Fe workshop in July: https://www.santafeartistgetaway.com/service-page/honest-art-2?referral=service_list_widget Join me at my Austin workshop in October: https://jodieking.com/honest-art-workshop-austin-october-2025 Worthy: How to Believe You Are Enough and Transform Your Life by Jamie Kern Lima: https://amzn.to/44PplTL Have a question for Jodie? Ask it here: https://forms.gle/hxrVu4oL4PVCKwZm6 How are you liking the Honest Art Podcast? Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and let us know! Watch this full episode on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC64Vn6NF5BfiwLNTSb_VnDA For a full list of show notes and links, check out my blog: www.jodieking.com/podcast