Air-Check Your Life

Latest Episodes:

Expect Victory with Joanna Laurent Jan 30, 2026

Show notes

One Phrase That Can Change Your Year with Johanna Laurent

In this episode, Mathew Blades sits down with author Johanna Laurent to explore the transformative impact of language on mindset, resilience, and personal growth.

Inspired by her journey overcoming childhood adversity, she shares how uplifting phrases helped her navigate uncertainty and self-doubt, leading to her pocket-sized book, Everything is Fine.

The conversation delves into reframing negative thoughts, the importance of daily rituals, and the power of repeating simple affirmations to shift mood and self-belief. Joanna Laurent guides listeners through her 30-second ritual and highlights best practices for incorporating “one phrase a day” into your routine.

If you’re ready to start your year with clarity and intention, this episode is for you.

Learn more, and order a copy here: https://www.positivephrases.com

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

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

How To Cope With Visual Trauma in the News with Jill McMahon Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

In this timely episode, Mathew Blades and Jill McMahon confront the emotional toll of gun violence as it saturates our screens and social feeds. Drawing from lived experience and clinical expertise, Jill unpacks the damaging effects of repeated visual trauma and how constant exposure can desensitize us, elevate stress, and keep us in a cycle of hyper-vigilance.

Together, they discuss practical tools for reclaiming wellbeing: pausing content consumption, releasing pent-up emotion, and reconnecting with others.

Whether you’re directly impacted or struggling with the weight of the headlines, this conversation offers validation and hope for anyone seeking to navigate, and recover from America’s current crisis of gun violence.

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

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

How Decision-Making Works in Real Life with Dr. Dave Jan 28, 2026

Show notes

How Decision-Making Works with Dr. Dave

Ever wondered why you make the choices you do? In this episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave break down the science and psychology behind decision-making, highlighting how much happens before we’re even aware we’ve made a choice. Dr. Dave explains the “spark” that jumpstarts our decision process and reveals how our brains weigh tiny votes for and against, influenced by emotions, context, and past experiences. The conversation dives into why we get stuck repeating negative patterns (“bad pickers” in relationships), the power of autopilot in our minds, and practical ways to reprogram automatic choices, including mindfulness and enlisting the help of trusted friends.

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

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

Rediscovering Your Original Equipment with Cortney McDermott Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

Using Your Original Equipment with Cortney McDermott

In this special episode, hosts Mathew Blades and Cortney McDermott explore the concept of “original equipment." Those innate gifts, talents, and qualities we are born with often get buried under societal expectations and conditioning.

Through storytelling, reflection, and a guided meditation, they invite listeners to reconnect with their true selves by embracing childlike energy, joy, and simple practices like yawning and laughter.

The conversation delves into why we lose touch with our authentic selves, how external influences shape our self-perception, and offers practical tools to rediscover happiness and fulfillment. Cortney McDermott, author and speaker, shares wisdom from her personal journey and encourages listeners to ask empowering questions and celebrate the unique “equipment” they came into the world with. Perfect for leaders and teams seeking inspiration and a fresh perspective on well-being and success.

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

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

How to Talk to Yourself, with Dr. Anna Marie Frank Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

How to Talk to Yourself with Dr. Anna Marie Frank

In this episode, Mathew Blades sits down with Dr. Anna Marie Frank, author, speaker, and founder of Happy Whole You, to explore the art and science of self-talk.

Drawing from her book, Stop Bullying Yourself, Dr. Frank unpacks why negative self-talk develops, the powerful impact of our upbringing and environment, and how our internal dialogue can shape everything from physical health to emotional wellbeing.

You’ll discover practical frameworks, including the VA’s “catch it, check it, change it” and hear real-life strategies for identifying toxic narratives, rewiring thought patterns, and embracing mindful, honest communication.

Dr. Frank shares personal stories of transformation and the importance of surrounding yourself with empowering influences. The conversation emphasizes agency, playfulness in challenging old beliefs, and the profound effect of words—ultimately offering listeners tools to step into their extraordinary selves.

“You can change your biochemistry…by shifting a thought alone.” – Dr. Anna Marie Frank

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

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

Communication and the K Shaped Economy with Mary Kelly Jan 23, 2026

Show notes

On this Feel Good Friday edition of Learn From People Who Lived It, host Mathew Blades welcomes leadership economist, keynote speaker, and former U.S. Navy commander Mary Kelly.

Together, they dive into the power of clear communication in work and life, revealing why most misunderstandings stem from assuming others can read our minds.

Mary Kelly breaks down practical frameworks for leaders sharing how setting deadlines, giving reasons, and expressing appreciation can dramatically boost performance and clarity.

The conversation also explores economic patterns like the K-shaped economy, and actionable tips for financial literacy, especially for those feeling stuck.

Mary Kelly also reflects on lessons from her Navy service and highlights skills leaders need to navigate tough times. Tune in for straightforward advice to improve your communication, leadership, and financial wellbeing.

Connect with Mary here: https://productiveleaders.com/

Visit us online @

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

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

Be a 6-week person after a tragedy, with Jill McMahon Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

Guns and Grief: Healing After Trauma with Jill McMahon

In this episode, you'll hear:

What truly happens to survivors in the aftermath of gun violence and suicide
Why grief from traumatic events like shootings or suicide is uniquely isolating
Practical ways to support those impacted, beyond platitudes or quick fixes

Mathew Blades and grief specialist Jill McMahon explore the often-overlooked experiences of survivors of gun violence and suicide loss. The conversation covers best practices for supporting friends and family highlighting the profound impact of simply “showing up” over time, and why being a “six week person” matters more than grand gestures. Jill shares insights from her book "Bulletproof," offering education and hope in reshaping how we respond to trauma.

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

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

Why Radical Acceptance is the First Step in "Doing the Work" Jan 21, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Mathew Blades and longtime guest Dr. Dave dive deep into how the mind works—and what it really takes to get “unstuck.”

Drawing on over 30 years of psychiatric experience, Dr. Dave explains why true transformation starts with radical acceptance before digging into past traumas or tough relationships. Together, they break down the difference between externalizing blame and taking responsibility, sharing real-life stories on shifting your mindset in challenging situations.

You’ll learn about the power of metacognition. Recognizing your thought patterns in real-time and how noticing your emotional and physical responses can be the key to personal change.

Mathew and Dr. Dave also introduce their Revive and Thrive workbook and discuss Dr. Dave’s new Substack, aiming to make mental health tools accessible to all.

This episode is filled with practical wisdom for anyone looking to better understand themselves and their patterns.

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

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

One Great Teaching with Cortney McDermott Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

One great teaching with Cortney McDermott

Join Mathew Blades, author, and coach Cortney McDermott as they explore “one great teaching” rooted in Einstein’s quote: “The field is the sole governing agency of the particle.”

They discuss agency, overcoming the blame game, and how shifting our internal landscape can lead to transformation. Cortney McDermott offers practical guidance like the power of simply lying down to help listeners tap into their intuition and reset.

The episode closes with a guided meditation to deepen your connection with yourself and harness the transformative force within.

Perfect for anyone seeking inspiration and tangible tools to foster real, personal change.

Thank you for listening.

Mathew

Stop Proving Yourself with Dr. Anna Marie Frank Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

Feeling stuck in the cycle of proving yourself?

In this episode of Learn From People Who Lived It, host Mathew Blades sits down with naturopathic doctor, author, and speaker Dr. Anna Marie Frank to unpack the deep-rooted human desire for acceptance and belonging.

Drawing from personal experience and professional practice, Dr. Anna Marie Frank explains the critical difference between fitting in and true belonging, highlighting how our internal stories and limiting beliefs shape our relationships, ambition, and health.

They explore the power of rewriting your story, letting go of self-sabotaging patterns, and the impact of unprocessed emotions on physical well-being.

The conversation blends practical exercises with insights on mindset, inviting listeners to question: What if the story you’ve been telling yourself isn’t even true?

Tune in for actionable strategies to step into authenticity, foster healing, and create lasting change from the inside out.

Don't forget that you can watch us daily at 12:30 MT on our Youtube Channel, here:

https://www.youtube.com/@mathewbladesofficial

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