Air-Check Your Life

Latest Episodes:

Jealousy as Your Signal, with Dr. Anna Marie Frank Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

Mine is Better than Yours: The Trap of Comparison with Dr. Anna Marie Frank

In this episode, Mathew Blades sits down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank, author and wellness expert, to unpack the impact of comparison on mental health, self-esteem, and personal growth. Together, they explore how comparison can trigger anxiety and chronic dissatisfaction, yet also offer opportunities for inspiration and learning.

Dr. Anna Marie Frank shares real-life anecdotes from business and family life, highlighting the dangers of comparison and the importance of maintaining an authentic mindset. They discuss practical ways to recognize the signals of unhealthy comparison, shift jealousy into motivation, and celebrate others’ successes.

Special attention is given to how these lessons can be shared with children in today’s social media-driven world.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Hope and Trust After Trauma with Jill McMahon Feb 12, 2026

Show notes

Hope’s Role in Grief with Jill McMahon

In this episode, Mathew Blades and grief counselor Jill McMahon explore the complex relationship between hope, trust, and the grieving process. Drawing from Jill McMahon’s expertise in working with those experiencing catastrophic loss and trauma, the conversation unpacks why hope can sometimes feel out of reach or even anxiety-producing in the aftermath of tragedy.

They discuss why well-meaning platitudes often miss the mark, how trauma neurologically disrupts our sense of safety, and the importance of simply showing up rather than “fixing” someone’s pain.

This episode is a compassionate guide for anyone navigating loss or seeking to better understand and support loved ones in grief.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Hoping Against Hope: Rethinking Agency and Trust with Dr. Dave Feb 11, 2026

Show notes

Hoping Against Hope: Redefining Control, Trust, and Spiritual Alignment with Dr. Dave

In this episode, you'll hear:

A fresh perspective on hope and its role in mental health
How agency, the power to choose, can transform your outlook
Tips for navigating anxiety, trust, and spiritual alignment

Mathew and Dr. Dave explore the real meaning of hope, inspired by Cortney's decision to remove "hope" from her vocabulary. Dr. Dave deep dives into hope theory, discussing C.R. Snyder’s model of agency and pathways, and the importance of recognizing multiple ways forward, even when life feels uncertain.

Together, they reveal how surrendering control, focusing on trust, and embracing spiritual alignment (rather than outcome attachment) can offer calm and resilience amid adversity. Drawing from clinical experience and personal reflection, Dr. Dave shares practical strategies for cultivating agency and reframing hope into effective action even when past trauma or life circumstances make change feel impossible.

“Trust feels calm and hope feels a little anxious.” Mathew Blades

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Overcoming a Divided Mind with Cortney McDermott and Mathew Blades Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

One Great Teaching: Overcoming the Divided Mind with Cortney McDermott

In this episode of Learn From People Who Lived It, hosts Mathew Blades and Cortney McDermott dive into the power of decision and the exhaustion caused by a divided mind, inspired by the wisdom of James 1:8.

Cortney McDermott shares her practical techniques for quieting internal conflict, emphasizing the importance of relaxation, trust over hope, and playful dialogue with a higher intelligence. The conversation addresses why we often resist slowing down and how small pattern shifts like pausing instead of pushing through can help us access clarity and inner guidance.

Listeners are guided through a calming meditation designed to foster self-trust and open the door to inspired choices. If you’ve ever felt pulled in different directions, this episode offers gentle strategies to find stability in both mind and life.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Why the Stress and What to do about it, with Dr. Anna Marie Frank Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

Why Are You So Stressed? with Dr. Anna Marie Frank

In this episode, you'll hear:

Why people are feeling more stressed than ever, and the role of alignment in stress
How people-pleasing, control issues, and overcommitment feed overwhelm
Simple frameworks like "delegate, automate, delete" to reclaim your time and energy
The importance of resetting your nervous system with breathwork, meditation, and time alone
Why “missing out” on commitments (like kids’ practices) can actually support your wellbeing

Host Mathew Blades and author/speaker Dr. Anna Marie Frank explore the sources of modern stress and offer actionable strategies to combat burnout. They dive deep into the power of saying no, prioritizing your true desires, and the relief that comes from letting go of control. Packed with honest conversation and practical tools, this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stretched too thin and craving balance.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Reshaping your money narrative with Scarlett 'The Biz Hippie' Feb 06, 2026

Show notes

How did our childhood experiences shape our relationship with money?

Good question, in this "Money" episode, we discuss:

- Practical steps to break free from money controlling your decisions
- Tips to create abundance and self-worth, regardless of your bank account

Mathew Blades sits down with Scarlett 'The Biz Hippie' to explore the deep roots of our money stories and how they impact our lives. Scarlett shares her own journey from scarcity and self-worth struggles to transforming her relationship with money and creating fulfillment beyond financial status.

Together, they discuss how money beliefs are formed, why awareness is the first step to change, and the balance between abundance and responsible financial management.

“Abundance is not an amount of money. It’s a way of being.” Scarlett 'The Biz Hippie'

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com
Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com
Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com
Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/
Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To get a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

A Tragic Event and the Lessons of Compassion with Jill McMahon Feb 05, 2026

Show notes

A Tragic Event from the Weekend with Jill McMahon

In this deeply personal episode, Mathew Blades opens up about a heartbreaking event he witnessed while supporting a player on his hockey team, and how that evoked memories of his own father's passing.

Joined by grief counselor and author of Bulletproof, Jill McMahon, the conversation explores the ways old trauma resurfaces when new losses occur, the importance of emotional regulation, and how empathy and anticipatory grief shape our responses to tragedy.

Jill shares insights on tending to the “residue” of grief, honoring vulnerable feelings, and the power of showing up for others. Together, they offer listeners practical advice for processing tough experiences: slow down, let big feelings in, and remember that healing is an ongoing process. If you’ve ever found yourself triggered by loss or navigating the aftermath of a traumatic event, this episode offers comfort, compassion, and understanding.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Thinking Fast and Slow, with Dr. Dave Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

Understanding Fast and Slow Thinking with Dr. Dave

In this episode, Mathew Blades sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Dave to explore the inner workings of the human mind, inspired by Daniel Kahneman’s groundbreaking book, "Thinking, Fast and Slow."

They unpack the two key mental systems: System 1, the fast and automatic thinking that governs much of our daily lives, and System 2, the slower, more deliberate process used for complex decisions. Dr. Dave breaks down the four core components of System 1.

This episode is perfect for anyone looking to understand, and upgrade their decision-making.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com

To grab a copy of our 6-Week Wellness course, which is video-led, visit https://a.co/d/0ihE1vaw

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Perception Versus Reality Exploring Plato’s Cave with Cortney McDermott Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

Perception vs. Reality: Tuesdays with CoCo

What if much of what we accept as “reality” is simply shadows on the wall? In this episode, author and speaker Cortney McDermott and Mathew explore Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, using it as a powerful metaphor for how our perceptions, conditioning, and learned helplessness can keep us stuck in limited narratives.

They share personal stories of breaking free from those chains, discuss the discomfort and courage required to step into the unknown, and offer guidance on questioning inherited beliefs.

The conversation offers practical strategies to help you renegotiate with life, awaken to new possibilities, and embrace the freedom that comes with self-discovery, even if the process feels lonely or uncertain. The episode concludes with a gentle meditation to support you in stepping into the sunlight of your own truth.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our guests:

If you want to use Streamyard to create a podcast like this, use this link: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/4656111098003456

Finding Friends Over Forty with Dr. Anna Marie Frank Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

Finding Friendship and Connection Over 40 with Dr. Anna Marie Frank

In this heartfelt episode, Mathew Blades sits down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank to explore the challenges and opportunities of making new friends after 40.

Together they discuss the unique loneliness that often arises after decades spent building careers and raising families, and how quality, depth, and accountability become more important in friendships as we age. Dr. Anna Marie Frank shares practical advice for overcoming isolation, such as reaching out to old acquaintances, trying new hobbies like pickleball, and joining groups or faith communities to cultivate true connection.

The episode wraps up with a reminder that combating loneliness starts with small, intentional actions—and the courage to show up differently and consistently for ourselves and others.

To get in touch with our podcast, email INFO@Learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com

Visit our Guests:

Mathew Blades - MathewBlades.com

Dr. Anna Marie Frank - https://drannamarie.com

Cortney McDermott - https://www.cortneymcdermott.com

Dr. Dave - https://www.drdaveaz.com/

Jill McMahon - Jillmcmahoncounseling.com