Lost or Found

Ep. 122: Divorce care with Pam Tuosto Oct 15, 2024

Join us today, as Pam Tuosto is here to talk about Divorce care! Coping with a breakup or divorce can be intensely painful and many different emotions show up throughout the process of divorce: sadness, anger, fear, guilt, shame, relief, contentment, happiness, and joy.

Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they've ever faced. It's a confusing time when you feel isolated, and have many questions about issues you've never faced.

DivorceCare Groups meet weekly for 13 weeks to help you face these challenges and move toward rebuilding your life. It is also offered locally in our community as well, at Twin Lakes Church, Santa Cruz, CA. And Pam is here to talk about it!

Ep. 121: Asking Hard Questions with Oriana Gliessman and Carla Roa Sep 30, 2024

On today’s episode- I’m joined by my friends Oriana Gliessman and Carla Roa- as we ask each other hard questions and tough silly questions.

Join us as we get frank, laugh, and spill some of our beans. For growth of course!

Bryson's Dad with Tim Erwin Sep 15, 2024

Back from our summer break, and today we start off with this touching episode with Tim Erwin! I've admired Tim Erwin for a long time now, as our boys are the same age, and over the years, I've had the chance to observe his undeniable connection with his son. Sometimes I wonder if it is more common to have a mom who is more present in her child's life. But since Bryson has been born, it really has been Bryson and his dad. And well, they share pure love.

Join us today, as we talk to Bryson's dad about what his journey has been like as a single dad. This interview will make you laugh, melt your heart, and perhaps believe in our humanity a little bit more. When we think about things, we can better things.

Ep. 119- My Rose, from My Book Untangling Aug 02, 2024

On today’s show, I will be sharing with you a chapter from my book, Untangling. It’s about my daughter Rose. I wrote it because oftentimes we honor people and their lives when they’re gone, but I wanted to honor her life because she is alive. Her impact on my life knows no bounds. When I see her, I rethink the patterns learned in my life, I think about my pain and what kind of parent I want to be, and the person that I am.

We will be taking a short break for the summer. Lost or Found podcast will resume after Labor day. Have a great summer, and I hope that you get to enjoy some moments of time! Take Care of yourself!

Ep. 118 - Honoring Yourself with Dr. Toni Liu Jul 12, 2024

Hello, Happy summer, and welcome back to the show! We have an interesting show today as Dr. Toni Liu is here to share her story.

She brings up developing a harsh, high-achieving inner critic, which became associated with emptiness, confusion, guilt, and shame, as she learns to honor herself, to find out who she truly is.

Dr. Toni Liu is a nomadic cartoonist, ex-gynecologist, relationship coach, sex educator, podcaster, and advocate from Asian mental health. Check out her website drtooni.com and her book, “Why You No Doctor Anymore?!”

Ep. 117 - Let's Talk About UNTANGLING Jun 24, 2024

Join us on this episode as my friend Oriana Gliessman asks ME questions about my book, "Untangling: Liberating Myself from an Enmeshed Family and Impossible Medical Career." My book came out last week! Find it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

We may have looked like hell recording this interview, but isn't that the first sign of friendship? Oriana comes clean and states that she errrr, she doesn't generally like self-help books nor memoirs. I had no idea. But she therefore may be the perfect person with whom to review the book. She's going to be real. I've also been feeling vulnerable about the book's release, and, quite frankly, a little afraid. Join us as we of course laugh, talk about vaginas, and my vulnerabilities, as I choose to less afraid.

My book starts off with my midlife crisis when I acknowledge the harsh realities of corporate medicine and don't like the person that I'm becoming. Starting the podcast and learning about what health and wellness really entails has been a journey, as I also ended up exploring the deep wounds of generational trauma. My own wounds that I've carried. But letting go of everything that I thought was important helped me to see the patterns in my own life, within my family of origin, and in my career. I choose my life. And, of course, let's be honest, I'm not going to write a book without cursing, mentioning bowel movements, and laughing. This is not your typical doctor book.

Ep. 116: Cultural Trauma with Jordan Thorpe May 23, 2024

Generational trauma is trauma that extends from one generation to the next and can sometimes include cultural trauma. Cultural trauma begins when a group experiences a traumatic event that causes economic, cultural, and familial distress. In response, people belonging to that group develop physical or psychological symptoms.

Today, we have Jordan Thorpe on the show to get the conversation started on cultural trauma, as he brings up his Native American heritage and the ethnic cleansing that occurred in America's past. The marginalization and violence imposed upon Native Americans is unfortunately one of many aspects of American history where populations have been suppressed and demoralized. Our legacy of injustice has created populations of very hurt people, such that they've carried the pain and anger for generations. But is the answer "an eye for an eye?" Or are there other ways in which we can heal our past wounds with compassion and understanding, and remember fully- so that we stop repeating past mistakes- and don't become like "them."

Jordan Thorpe is a Santa Cruz native and entrepreneur, is a dedicated Real Estate Broker known for his local expertise and client-focused approach. Outside of work, he treasures spending quality time with his family, indulging in his passion for cooking, and diving into captivating books, embodying a balanced lifestyle of professional success and personal fulfillment.

Ep. 115: Colleen Murphy on Communicating with Teens Apr 25, 2024

The reality of having a teenager in the household has hit us hard, and to be honest with you, I feel like I am practicing restraint by not automatically being an ass back. I thought my daughter was gonna cause me more problems because she’s a girl, but I have to say, my teenage boy is much more irritating that I anticipated. You see the surges of testosterone in his behavior, and I realize it’s hard to maneuver something new, but man, I often remind him to check himself. Cute during certain moments, a raging maniac others, and then always horney. O, M, God.

Here today to help us is the amazing Colleen Murphy! She is a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator as well as Parent Coach, and now teaching parenting classes and workshops at the Live Oak Family Resource center, You can find her at fromtheheadtotheheart.com.

Ep. 114: Difficult Moms with Dr. Esther An, MD Apr 11, 2024

We are doing it! Today on the podcast, we are discussing difficult moms. One of the ways in which I've been able to find purpose in, and add some reason to, my difficult relationship with my mom has been by talking with others with less than idyllic mom relationships. The mother-child relationship is a difficult one to begin with, don’t you think? And sometimes, it can be even more messed up!?! And I like speaking with my friend, Dr. Esther An, because well, we are both mostly past the angry phase and we see the relationship for what it is, as women, as daughters, and as moms. Let’s breathe together.

Dr. Esther An was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, and she still considers herself a Midwest person at heart. She moved out to California in 2006 and has been enjoying the sun and fun ever since. She is a Pediatric Critical care doctor here in Northern California and she is married with one child and two quirky cats.

Ep. 113: First 2 Chapters of Untangling Mar 28, 2024

Hello friends! For this episode I'm going to share the first two chapters of my upcoming book Untangling: Liberating Myself from an Enmeshed Family and Impossible Medical Career.

It's really been a long ass journey, but I'm still standing! And I'm super excited that this book is close! And if you're enjoying the podcast, don't forget to rate the podcast, however you get your podcasts!

I had been working as a doctor for almost 15 years when I had a full blown midlife crisis. I was supposed to have reached the promise land of success, and yet I found myself so unhappy, angry, and becoming someone that I was not. And then I threw it all away to become a podcaster. It was during this time that I thought about the reoccurring pattern in my life. I was enmeshed. At my corporate medicine job, I smiled, never complained about the increasingly impossible workload, didn’t cause any problems, and was becoming the kind of doctor I never wanted to be.

But my enmeshment didn’t start at work, I also had been enmeshed with my family of origin. Enmeshment happens when parents are unable to see their children as separate entities, when being “too close” can lead to a form of trauma. So much of my energy as a child was spent on making my dysfunctional parents feel better, being the only friend to my mentally struggling mother. I became a doctor for their approval! And for too long, I did not have a strong sense of who I was.

And well, like Humpty Dumpty on the wall, I fell hard but I decided to look at all the pieces.

Ep. 112: Generational Trauma with Ken Robins Mar 14, 2024

Today, we talk about generational trauma with Ken Robins!

Dr. Bruce Lipton, the author of The Biology of Belief,notes that we are programmed to live a certain way by those who take care of us. In turn, this affects how we live, a lifestyle we may not have knowingly chosen for ourselves. Glennon Doyle, in her book Untamed, calls it an unnecessary burden that is passed on. Some people call this family karma or family patterns. Others call it generational trauma. Because of the issues of the parents, siblings, or generational forefathers, there’s a certain energetic pattern that develops within the family at large as pain continues to get passed on.

It’s remarkable how this traumatic bundle is unknowingly passed down for lifetimes. It could have started with one person, but others subsequently continue to follow the pattern and forget its origin. We are still connected to past generations and generations of people we never knew through dysfunction. Really kind of crazy if you think about it. Not only are we physically related to our distant and immediate family members, but we can still be living with their learned patterns and pain.

What sucked in their lives could be what sucks in our lives.

Ken Robins was born on 9/11/1944 during a bombing raid in London and grew up in extreme poverty and violence and has been seeking the safety and healing of healthy relationships ever since.

He is fascinated by the potential for suffering to become a blessing and specializes in the healing of trauma and the promotion of ”safe attachment” in intimate partnerships.

Ken was a group, couples and individual process leader at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur for 30 years and continues his private practice in Carmel Valley California.

Ep. 111: Morally Injured with Dr. Tara Sood Feb 29, 2024

Moral injury exists in the practice of medicine, and it's not discussed.

It was originally coined by a psychiatrist to describe the wounds that form when a person's sense of what is right is betrayed by leaders of high status. Whether or not we think about it, we all hold a moral compass and sometimes we see this being jeopardized by what we partake in, witness, or fail to prevent. This is especially true in the practice of medicine, as people's health and lives are at stake.

Some doctors call it burnout, and some may really be burned out, but unfortunately in medical practice, it's not just the doctor's problem. As healthcare has become corporatized, and the majority of doctors work for corporate, there is a bigger problem at large. When Dr. Wendy Dean noticed that the rate of suicide in doctors were higher than active military members, she surveyed docs to see how they were doing. And she found that many were not unhappy due to burnout and working too hard, but because the healthcare system made it so difficult for them to care for their patients.

If you know a doctor or nurse, if you are a doctor or nurse, if you know a doctor who committed suicide, if you are a little or a lot unhappy, please consider listening to this episode. You may realize that you are not alone. And, unfortunately, it's a topic that doctors cannot openly talk about at work. They're still calling it Burnout.

Dr. Tara Sood is a seasoned physician holding dual board certifications in Emergency Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine, boasting 18 years of experience in high-volume Emergency Departments. Complementing her clinical work, Dr. Sood extends her passion for healing to international humanitarian aid. With 7 years of hands-on experience in disaster relief and refugee care, she serves as a technical consultant for the International Medical Corps (IMC), leveraging her skills to enhance healthcare access for vulnerable communities worldwide. Outside of her medical practice, she finds joy in fostering dogs from a local rescue organization. Specializing in rehabilitating psychologically withdrawn dogs who have endured abuse and neglect, she provides them with care and attention, helping them heal and rebuild trust in humans.

Ep.110: Pain Reprocessing Therapy with Tai Kuncio Feb 15, 2024

Hello! Welcome to the first episode of Lost or Found podcast for 2024! It's been a minute and I hope that you all know that I've really missed talking, learning, and laughing on air. I had a lot to focus on, including working on my upcoming book, Untangling, as I still continue to work on it. I hope it will become something that many people can relate to, as I bring up untangling from what has brought me a lot of pain. As Martha Beck has said, "you can tell it's enlightenment because enlightenment always tastes of freedom. Not comfort. Not ease. Freedom." What a powerful statement!

And on today's episode, I am happy to introduce Tai Kuncio to the show. Tai Kuncio is a chronic pain coach, who specializes in Pain Reprocessing Therapy - a ground-breaking new way to treat (not just manage) chronic pain and symptoms.

1.2 billion people on the planet suffer from chronic pain. They go from doctor to doctor looking for answers, trying every treatment they can find without much success and are often left demoralized, depressed, and without hope. Thanks to recent breakthroughs in neuroscience, researchers have gained a deeper understanding of chronic pain and how to treat it. By working on where pain originates - in the brain - patients can significantly reduce or eliminate their symptoms and get their life back. You can find Tai at retrainyourchronicpain.com.

Ep. 109: Fitness Training with Alex Soto Aug 03, 2023

Alex Soto is back on the show to talk about his incredible work as a fitness and functional trainer, as well as the profound body work that he does for his clients.

While many would be turned off by the idea of fitness training, as we are more prone to injury as we get older, it's important to actually feel strong in our bodies while also appropriately addressing the painful and weaker areas. It's preventative and perhaps curative. Last week, Alex was on the show talking about his history with pain, as well as the emotional and physical pain that he sees in his clients. On this week's episode, Alex begins to tell us what we can do. Perhaps the most intuitive trainer I've ever met, I can't help but really know that he gets pain. And well, I think there's so much that one can do to help you, if they get it.

Check this episode out if you have pain, or you've thought about the possibility of a physically, and perhaps emotionally stronger YOU!

You can find Alex on instagram @alex2636 or you can email him at Ealexsoto85@gmail.com.

Also, We will be taking a short break for about 6 weeks. We’ll be back in the middle of September. I’ll miss you, but I need some time to chill. And don’t forget to check out some older episodes that interest you. And don't forget to rate this podcast. On Apple podcast, you have to scroll to the bottom of the page of episodes- to see the 5 stars. For Spotify, the rating is usually at the top.

Have a wonderful rest of your summer. And be kind to yourself. Because, if not for YOU, where would you be? And I thank you. I also wanted to thank Katherine Hallissy Ayala, my beloved Webdesigner, you can find her at CodeByKatherine.com, and Will Mitchell, my beloved Sound producer, who makes everything sound easy and definitely Ups my game- you can find him at hands-on-sound.net.

Ep. 108: Journey Through Pain with Alex Soto Jul 27, 2023

Alex Soto is on the show to talk about his journey into understanding the pain that people carry in their bodies. He is a physical trainer and functional trainer, and does excellent body work, such that his clients, once they find him, stay with him, and continue to work with him as they find themselves getting stronger in their bodies. His mission is to decrease acute and chronic physical pain. I find him super interesting because you can tell he has an intuitiveness when he works with his clients, and I think that intuitiveness oftentimes comes from one's understanding pain, to be able to understand someone else’s pain so well. And today is about his journey into understanding.

You can find Alex on instagram @alex2636 and you can email him at Ealexsoto85@gmail.com.

Ep. 107. My Imagined Letter. By me, For me, To me. Jul 21, 2023

Okay, so I'm going to do something different this week. Today's episode is all me. I feel like it's a pivotal moment in my life, considering I still carry that super shy person inside of me. I'm excited, a little scared, and well, Why not??

I’ve been mentioning in the last few episodes the imaginary letter that I wrote on behalf of my mother- by me, for me, to me. And it originally started off as a monologue way-back-when on episode 50, as I delved deeper to include it in my upcoming book.

On last week’s interview, I became especially interested in something that Dr. Chris Fahrenbach said. We were discussing Jennette McCurdy’s book, I’m Glad My Mother Died, and we were talking about how enmeshment- when parents are overly reliant on their children for support- can lead to emotional trauma. I asked her towards the end of the interview, how do we HEAL from enmeshment? And she brought up differentiation - to essentially separate yourself from the destructive environmental influences. In order for us to live our own lives and fulfill our own destinies, we must differentiate ourselves from destructive family and societal influences. Differentiating from negative influences and identities from our past allows us to become who we truly are, rather than following a prescribed identity from either our family or our society.

So friends,this letter has become a part of my process of differentiation from my pain. With this letter, I can understand my pain, and I can understand my mother's pain. I don't have to hate her, nor do I have to like her. I can see things clearly. I choose my own future.

I present to you a chapter from my book.

My Imagined Letter. By Me, For Me, To Me

Ep. 106- Enmeshment and Being “Too Close” with Dr. Chris Fahrenbach Jul 07, 2023

Today we discuss Enmeshment based on Jennette McCurdy’s bestselling book I’m Glad My Mom Died. What can happen when perhaps...you’re too close.

When you think of childhood emotional trauma, one might think of neglect, but the opposite, being “too” close can lead to enmeshment trauma. A child can become the “parentified child”, where the child takes on caring for the parent’s emotional needs, such that their parents’ lives center around theirs, they are their parent’s best friend, their parent’s self worth is hinged on their child’s success, and they are guilted when they want less contact.

And enmeshment trauma can manifest as being afraid of conflict, difficulty in relationships, low self-esteem while deeply relying on approval of parents, and lack of self identity such that they do everything to keep others happy and “please” them. Does this sound like anyone you know? Unfortunately, I wonder if this is more common than not.

And who better to discuss this with, than our favorite clinical psychologist Dr. Chris Fahrenbach. She’s been on the show in the past, and I just LOVE her.

And if you’re loving the podcast, don’t forget to give us a great rating, write us a review however you listen to podcasts, and send a favorite episode to your friends.

Episode 105: Plant Based Nutrition with Crystal Robb Jun 29, 2023

It's true that plant based lifestyles reduce the risk of heart disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, certain risks of cancer (specifically colon, breast, and prostate cancers), depression, and in older adults, decreased risk of frailty, along with better mental and physical function.

Plant-based or plant-forward eating patterns focus on foods primarily from plants. This includes not only fruits and vegetables, but also nuts, seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes, and beans. It doesn't mean that you are vegetarian or vegan and never eat meat or dairy. Rather, you are proportionately choosing more of your foods from plant sources.

Join us today as Crystal Robb is on the show to talk about plant based nutrition! I think in order to make healthful changes into our lives, getting to the bottom of why this change benefits us leads to a habit that really becomes consistent. And we’re not talking being a vegetarian, we’re talking about adding more vegetables and fruits to our diet. It’s known that food is highly inflammatory, and why make the fires in our bodies worse? Join us as we talk about how to get started, and get inspiration for plant-based eating throughout the day!

Crystal Robb has been actively working in the wellness community for over 10 years. She is a nutritionist, specializing in plant-based nutrition, culinary and sustainable agriculture. Crystal is also a registered yoga teacher, and professional surf instructor. Crystal offers wellness consulting and coaching to inspire you to live your best life. You can find her at crystalrobb.com

Ep. 104: Our Awakening with Raniero Hoffman Jun 22, 2023

What if we all have something special within all of us, ready to be awakened, to be pulled out into our existence?

Perhaps that is a fundamental truth that we continue to deny. You are already very special. But how do we start to really remember?

Father Raniero is a Catholic monk from the New Camaldolese Hermitage in Big Sur and he is here to talk about our awakening and enlightenment. He was one of my original interviewees when I first started, when we began the podcast talking about forgiveness on Episode 2.

And today, he returns to talk about Our Awakening, what he calls Our God within us, and all around us. And we use the term God loosely, it could be our faith, whichever religion you practice, the universe, your light. Your truest form. This conversation was very important and timely for me, because sometimes I also forget my light is there, dampening it. Father Raniero reminds us to never forget, to live with, and be guided by what is in all of us. He begins by giving us a little homily, and check out the amazing conversation as we go at it. And I really mean it, he is so insightful, speaks with joy always, and truly loving. It was a conversation that I needed to hear at that very moment in time. On a side note, this is something that I've been noticing with truly spiritual people- it's like they remember and know the child-like Joy in life, and we can feel it. It's like, JUST CHILL. Like the Dalai Lama always seems like he's laughing or joyful.

And if you like this interview - check out the other monks that I interviewed in the past: Cyprian Consiglio was in The Breadth of the Divine on ep 27 and Michael Fish was on the podcast in The Journey thru Life on episode 88. These monks are legit soul reaching, insightful, aiming for love at times what seems like a whole other level. Be inspired to live your best life!

And don't forget to give us a great rating, send your fave episodes to your friends, and tell people about us! It helps so much, as this is a project of Love, as you advocate for your health and well being more.

Ep. 103 - Our Suffering with Dr. Andre Decary Jun 15, 2023

Today, we're going to talk about our suffering. We talk about suffering, because suffering has a lot of meaning for us. Yet a lot of times, we view our suffering as something to be ashamed of or to run away from.

Why does it seem like our initial response is to put our tears in a bottle? Could there be a purpose to our suffering? Does suffering just prove that we are real? How do we turn our pain into something that can help us?

And who better to talk about our suffering with, than a practicing psychologist - especially Dr. Andre Decary! And I’m so glad to welcome back one of my most fave psychologists, because he’s totally a safe place in which to discuss something that’s painful and scary...as we continue to make sense of it.

And for sure, Andre Decary has certainly led a very interesting life- he was a monk in the Hindu tradition, survived a near death experience, specialized in trauma, and is in private psychotherapy practice in Berkeley, CA. He states that he was wounded and had managed his wounds well until a breakdown in the Himalayas, which brought him to the field of psychology. It was the beginning of his introspection into himself, as he now helps others.

Ep. 102: The Highly Sensitive Person with Colleen Murphy Jun 08, 2023

Have you ever been told that you’re “too sensitive” or that you “shouldn’t think so much,” particularly by people who strike you as too insensitive or who you believe should think a little more? You may be a highly sensitive person, or HSP.

Are you easily overwhelmed by such things as bright lights, strong smells, coarse fabrics, or sirens nearby?

We base our discussion on Dr. Elaine Aron’s book, The Highly Sensitive Person, who first coined the term in the 1990s, when she began researching high sensitivity. There are many others who share similar characteristics and it's thought that 15-20% of the population are HSPs.

Highly sensitive people notice more stimuli in their environment, even lower threshold ones, and are more sensitive to pain, hunger, lights, and noise; have increased responsiveness to both positive and negative influences; and get easily overwhelmed. And let’s be honest, this sensitivity is viewed differently in different cultures, and this trait is often misunderstood.

While highly sensitive people are sometimes negatively described as being “too sensitive," it is a personality trait that brings both strengths and challenges.

And these are just some of the traits. Colleen Murphy, who was previously on the podcast talking about Parenting on episode 97, is here today to discuss the Highly Sensitive person. She is a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator as well as Parent coach, and now teaching parenting classes and workshops at Live Oak Family Resource Center. You can find her at fromtheheadtotheheart.com. And check out Dr. Elaine Aron’s website hsperson.com!

Ep. 101: Anger during Springtime with Dr. Lishanna Emmert Jun 01, 2023

I’m excited to speak with Dr. Lishanna Emmert! She had been on the show previously, in episode 65, when she spoke about acupuncture. The truth is, I’m interested in all modalities of healing. I think the combination of holistic medicine and western medicine can offer such a broad array of options for one’s healing. There is really so much that we can learn from each other.

Today Dr. Emmert talks about anger, rage, and resentment. As in Chinese medicine, human emotions are reflective of energies in nature, and it is thought that one sees a lot of rage during the springtime. I’m also a mom and a wife. I can understand rage. The season of the spring is considered wood energy, which was previously at rest and storing, concentrating its energy, as it now bursts forward with rebirth, and new buds. Perhaps we are not separate from nature. What does this surge in energy activate for you? Anger has power.

You can find Dr. Emmert at solis.care.

Episode 100: The Myth of Normal with Dr. Dave Clarke May 25, 2023

Hello folks, can you believe, we are on episode 100!!! It's been fun having meaningful and open conversations as I try to understand and grow, while trying to understand and grow some more. I hope that these conversations have become meaningful in your life, and help you to think about things.

Today I have Dr. Dave Clarke back on the show, and we’ll be discussing Dr. Gabor Maté's bestseller book, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture. Maté has come to recognize the prevailing understanding of “normal” as false, neglecting the roles that trauma and stress, and the pressures of modern-day living, exert on our bodies and our minds at the expense of good health. Maté brings his perspective to the great untangling of common myths about what makes us sick, connects the dots between the sicknesses of individuals and the declining soundness of society. As he writes, "Much that passes for normal in our society is neither healthy nor natural."

But what’s fun about these discussions is our interpretation of the book- I enjoy this the most. I don’t know where the conversation will go, ever, but we go someplace safe together and share our thoughts. I really also enjoy talking with Dr. Dave Clarke, a retired ICU and Internal Medicine doc. He's hella smart, he's a man who still reads books (!?!!), and discusses with an open heart. And if I may also add - he's been very popular with female listeners. Check him out in his past episodes, Ep. 85: 8 Dates & Ep. 70: When Things Fall Apart.

I also wanted to thank you for listening to the show. I am super grateful. And thank you to my sound producer Will Mitchell from Hands on Sound in the background, as well as Katherine Hallissy Ayala, my website designer and my technically savvy person and friend.

Ep. 99: Chosen Family with Oriana Gliessman May 18, 2023

There are times when we find family, elsewhere. And that’s okay. I think it’s healthy.

Experts in the field have defined chosen families as “nonbiological kinship bonds, whether legally recognized or not, deliberately chosen for the purpose of mutual support and love.” Basically, these are the people who understand you, lift you up, celebrate you, help you, and love you, even without biological ties.

I think the truth is, we all need each other. Sometimes it may not be possible in your family of origin. And I wonder if it’s a survival of the fittest thing to try find that meaningful connection elsewhere. It’s easier when you have someone whom you can depend on, love, and who will also root for you.

I’m discussing today’s topic with my good friend Oriana Gliessman, who has become my Chosen Family. I love her despite not having a biological tie with her, and I love that she’s never afraid to get real.

Episode 98: Marriages with Andre Decary May 11, 2023

I’m excited about today’s interview because I’m speaking with a psychologist about the enigma of marriages. God love our partners - but marriage is work and patience, sometimes also requiring a lot of deep breathing.

I was introduced to our guest through a friend, who is also a client of his. Andre Decary has certainly led a very interesting life- he was a monk in the Hindu tradition, survived a near death experience, specialized in trauma, and is in private psychotherapy practice in Berkeley, CA. He states that he was wounded and had managed his wounds well until a breakdown in the Himalayas, which brought him to the field of psychology. It was the beginning of his introspection into himself, which led him to devote his time to helping others.

Join us as we talk about marriages!

And don't forget! If you are loving the podcast, don't forget to rate us or leave a review, and send your friend a favorite episode! Your support matters!

Ep. 97: Parenting with Colleen Murphy May 04, 2023

The truth is everyone feels like they struggle as a parent. Let's be real, it's hard. And when we talk about it, we realize that we are not alone.

I've heard about Colleen Murphy and the amazingness that she is through several parents locally in Santa Cruz, and I figured that it was time that I sit down and chat with her!

Good parenting feels good and by learning to do it right, we can set the foundation. We can't control another human being because we can't control their thoughts, and thoughts fuel behavior. But behaviors are communication. Sometimes we label certain behaviors as bad, but it's not the essence of their soul, it's just communication. We can learn to rethink it, and think about what's fueling our children's behaviors, and the alien beings that they are, hahahaha.

Colleen Murphy is a parent coach, helping parents with support, finding new ideas and a different approach from the one they’re using or maybe parenting differently from the way they were parented. She is a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator and now teaching parenting classes and workshops at Live Oak Family Resource Center. The request from families for more one-on-one help led her to create her own parent coaching service. You can find her at fromtheheadtotheheart.com.

Episode 96: Man Living with Cancer with Trevor Maxwell Apr 27, 2023

Today’s interview in my opinion, is a serious WOW. If you know a man with cancer or illness, you're going to want to share this interview with them.

Trevor Maxwell is on the show, and he wrote Open Heart, Warrior Spirit: A Man’s Guide to Living with Cancer. He is also the founder of Man Up to Cancer, inspiring men to connect and avoid isolation throughout their cancer journeys. He has also been living with stage IV colon cancer since March of 2018.

Man Up to Cancer is a leading support community for men impacted by cancer, as they offer peer-to-peer support, an annual retreat, chemo backpack program, learning opportunities, connection, and there are more than 30 local chapters geared toward improving the quality of life for their members. Trevor states that when faced with cancer, women tend to “reach out,” and men tend to “check out.” While all of us know someone with cancer, what I didn’t realize is how many men are impacted by isolation when facing cancer. This leads men down a path toward mental health problems, strained relationships, and poor medical outcomes.

Check out his podcast Man Up to Cancer and you can find him at manuptocancer.com.

Episode 95: Girl Talk- Love Languages and Attachment Styles! Apr 20, 2023

On today's show, my girlfriends Oriana Gliessman and Carla Roa are back on the show as we talk about Love Languages and Attachment Styles! Based on Dr. Gary Chapman's book, the 5 love languages are words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Have you ever wondered how you express and experience love, and how your partner experiences love? You may be seriously surprised! I was surprised!

Have you ever also noticed that you usually think and act in certain ways in romantic relationships? Maybe you're a bit jealous and afraid of being alone for too long. Or perhaps you feel confident and totally trust your partner. One explanation for these patterns is the attachment theory. Knowing your unique attachment style can help you become more self-aware and build healthier long-term partnerships.

A funny and upbeat conversation between girlfriends as we get real, laugh, learn together, and laugh again!

Ep. 94: Domestic Violence and Our Children, with Kalyne Foster Renda Apr 06, 2023

Thanks for joining us today, and we have a great show lined up. It’s also a super important one. Kalyne Foster Renda from Monarch Services is here to talk about Intimate Partner Violence and our Youth. Intimate partner violence, or Domestic violence, is a societal problem, not only a family or private issue. With youth experiencing sexual assault, often times it's a friend, someone you know. That's why it's important to be in the know, because we can prevent this from happening.

The facts are alarming. And you may know already know someone in an abusive relationship.

Many children exposed to violence in the home are also victims of physical abuse. Children who witness domestic violence or are victims of abuse themselves are at serious risk for long-term physical and mental health problems. Children who witness violence between parents may also be at greater risk of being violent in their future relationships.

Kalyne has spent the past 25 years advocating for social justice and equity for historically marginalized individuals and communities through community organizing, policy advocacy and direct services. As the Chief Executive Officer at Monarch Services, Kalyne leads a team of service staff in providing prevention and intervention services focused on domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking serving over 5,500 community members each year. You can find her at Monarchscc.org. Please also consider donating to this wonderful and super impactful organization.

And if you’re loving the podcast, don’t forget to give us a great rating however you listen to podcasts. Believe me, it helps, and I am super grateful.

Episode 93: Self Empowerment with Crystal Robb Mar 30, 2023

On today's show, we talk about self empowerment! Well-being starts with us. When we practice self empowerment, we make a conscious decision to take charge of our lives. It involves making positive choices, understanding our strengths and weaknesses, and continuing even when things feel rough. People who consciously decide to take control of their lives are often happier, more fulfilled, and more satisfied in their careers. Join us as Crystal Robb and I talk about self empowerment!

Crystal Robb has been actively working in the wellness community for over 10 years. She is a nutritionist, specializing in plant-based nutrition, culinary arts, and sustainable agriculture. Crystal is also a registered yoga teacher, and professional surf instructor. Crystal offers wellness consulting and coaching to inspire you to live your best life. You can find her at crystalrobb.com

Ep. 92- Stress and the Immune System with Dr. Jyothi Rao, MD Mar 23, 2023

We have Dr. Jyothi Rao, MD back on the show - author of Body on Fire! Health and balance in our bodies begins with the immune system.

And today, we talk everything about Stress and the Immune System!

It's true that stress can come from many places, and the problem is...when stress doesn't go away. It can be from pressure from work or home, the food that goes into our mouths, lack of sleep or overstimulation, the stress of always being connected and notified socially. And this stress has direct impact on our immune system. What happens when our immune system becomes dysregulated?

What are signs of an overactive immune system?

Join us! Dr. Rao is a badass, seriously one of my doctor girl crushes. A wonderful and true advocate for our health, she is also a fantastic educator. An Internal Medicine doctor by training and experience, she is a strong proponent of holistic medicine, and focuses her medical practice on wellness and prevention. You can find her at raowellness.com.

Episode 91: The Mastery of Love with Daisy Thayer Mar 16, 2023

On today's episode, Daisy Thayer and I discuss Don Miguel Ruiz's amazing book The Mastery of Love. There's seriously nothing like two intelligent women of different generations, sitting down, getting real, and talking about a really great book! Because let's admit it, sometimes Love is super confusing. We're all trying to make sense of it!

In his book, Don Miguel Ruiz brings up the fear-based beliefs and assumptions that undermine love and lead to suffering and drama in our relationships. Together, Daisy and I talk about "the parasites" - our beliefs that make us suffer and sometimes control our lives, our emotional wounds, and the freedom and joy that love can offer. And oftentimes, it's seriously a work in progress.

But what can't we do, if we start talking about difficult things?

Thank you for finding us and listening to us! If you're loving the podcast and if you haven't already done so, please leave us a great review, and send your friends an episode! Every little bit helps! And remember- there's no one like you!! More reason to invest in yourself!

Ep. 90: Transitions with Tenzin Chogkyi Mar 09, 2023

On today's show, I am so honored to have Tenzin Chogkyi here to talk about Transitions!

Transition periods are sometimes chosen and sometimes not. Transitions exist in many forms, we can be in between jobs or careers, grief and mourning, relationships, illness, or retirement. It's a period where we may not be able to necessarily weigh our lives with our productivity, as it's a period of reassessing, turning inwards, to figure out what we really want. What is visible on the outside may not matter, as we transform into something new.

I'm so glad to have the chance to converse with Tenzin on today’s podcast! Because let's be honest, transitions are a hella slow process, sometimes enigmatic, and also...really frustrating.

Tenzin Chogkyi is a teacher who bridges the worlds of Buddhist thought, contemplative practice, mental and emotional cultivation, and the latest research in the field of positive psychology. She took monastic ordination in 2004 with His Holiness the Dalai Lama and practiced as a monastic for nearly 20 years. Since 2006, she has been teaching in Buddhist centers around the world. Check out her podcast Unlocking True Happiness! You can find her at unlockingtruehappiness.org

I also wanted to thank my listeners for coming back, for joining us, and for finding us. I think you’re the bestest and I’m really honored to be a part of your day today. If you’re enjoying season 3, please don’t forget to give us a great rating, however you get your podcasts. And send your friends your favorite episode!

Episode 89: The Awake Dreamer with Samantha Fey Mar 02, 2023

Guess what! We're Back! And Season 3 starts today!!

I am SO excited to have Samantha Fey back on the show! She's here to talk about her new book, The Awake Dreamer, and it's a super interesting and fascinating read. I seriously loved this book and could not put it down.

Dreams have played a significant and active role in Samantha's spiritual development and awakening. Her book is full of fascinating stories, exercises, and techniques to not only remember our dreams but to also gain insight from our dreams. It is through her extensive research that she explores famous soul travelers, premonitory dreams, dream visitations, healing dreams, past-life dreams, guides and angels. Seriously, it's a fascinating topic, and her beautiful book is so well written as she uses research and intuition to help us gain insight from our dreams. Because what's better than thinking about our soul's potential and living a fuller life?

I'm pretty open about it, but Samantha Fey is one of my heros. My girl crush. And she is also the cohost of two popular podcasts, Psychic Teachers and Enlightened Empaths, both of which teach listeners how to embrace and celebrate their innate sensitivity and gifts.

Episode 88: The Journey Thru Life with Michael Fish Dec 16, 2022

Super excited about today's show! Michael Fish is here today and he’s a Camaldolese monk and a member of the New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur, California. I bet you may never have thought monks could be cool. But in all seriousness, they can be hella cool. I've heard him speak a couple times, and I continue to be floored by his insights into life. I usually end up thinking about his teachings for days, as they are so close to my heart.

And he is finally here! While a Catholic monk, he refers to God as a she. Since I’ve known him, he’s always referred to God as a woman. I've never heard anyone call God a she. He describes her as the gentlest of all voices, inside of all of us. And what if hearing this quiet and gentle voice in all of us, is crucial for really getting to know ourselves? Our true selves?

Today Michael Fish talks with us about the Journey through life, based on the 4 stages of life in the Hindu tradition. Believe me, he is an amazing speaker, who speaks from the heart. You can find him at hermitfish.com.

Episode 87: Where True Medicine Begins with Dr. Rakesh Jotwani, MD Dec 08, 2022

I agree with Dr. Rakesh Jotwani: Food is medicine. Movement is medicine. Breath is medicine. Sleep is medicine. Love is medicine.

Today Dr. Jotwani (aka Dr. Rak) talks with us about the powerful changes that we all can make to our own bodies, which has the potential to be curative, as it can prevent and reverse the overwhelming chronic disease that exists in the world. We live in a world where hypertension, obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes are not shocking news, and in fact they are only the beginning. In my opinion, preventable disease should always be shocking, because ultimately, we don’t have to go there. There is SO much that we can do about it, I really mean it. It’s hard, but we can all take control of our lives, with persistence and the right guidance.

I realize this may be a tough topic right before the holidays, but before we ever commit to doing something, it’s good to plant that seed in our head, ponder the thought, and see if takes root when we are actually ready to commit. This is called Fighting For Our Lives, and not just seeking medication when we suddenly find ourselves host to a chronic disease. This is not a diet -- it’s a Lifestyle. Healthy living. It's each of us choosing to live and choosing what we bring into our lives.

Dr. Rak sees patients remotely, and you can check out his website at rakyourlife.org.

If you're loving the podcast, don't forget to give us a great rating, send your friends an episode, and subscribe!

Episode 86: Body-Mind Centering with Jeanne Feeney Dec 02, 2022

On today's show, I talk with Jeanne Feeney about movement, especially during the postpartum period, when the primary objective seems to be survival itself. Body-Mind Centering is a comprehensive educational and therapeutic approach to health and healing, with a wide range of benefits. Using a dynamic blend of movement, touch, sound, and guided imagery, one can learn to release the stress, fear, aches and pains, limiting habits and perceptions that prevent us from being our "best selves."

Jeanne Feeney is a dancer, choreographer and movement therapist, and has been a certified practitioner of Body-Mind Centering™ since 1989. She runs the Studio at Squid Row in Santa Cruz, CA, where she shares her passion for movement, working with adults and children as they navigate the changes of life, in their bodies. You can find her at movementlaboratory.org.

Episode 85: 8 Dates with Dr. David Clarke, MD Nov 17, 2022

A true love story is not a fairy tale. For Realz. It takes vulnerability and effort to be in a relationship. And what if the goal of conflict is not to win, but it is a way in which to get to know your partner better and develop deeper intimacy?

I am super excited because Dr. Dave Clarke is back on the show again. This time, we are talking about about relationships.

Together we read the book, 8 Dates by John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman. Let’s be real, long term commitment is hard and it takes effort. And in this book, Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman, draw upon forty years of research from their famous Love Lab, inviting couples on fun and rewarding dates, exploring eight topics that matter the most in relationships- including trust, conflict, sex, money, family, adventure, spirituality, and dreams. And Dr. Clarke and I discuss these essential conversations!

Join us as we get real, and still have a good laugh!

Episode 84: Benefits Beyond the Mat with Daisy Thayer Nov 11, 2022

On today's show, we are talking about yoga with Daisy Thayer! According to the National Institutes of Health, there is scientific evidence that shows that yoga supports stress management, mental health, mindfulness, healthy eating, weight loss and quality of sleep.

Yoga provides a retreat from our busy and chaotic lives, while providing many mental and physical benefits. Yoga develops inner awareness. It helps us to focus our attention on our body's abilities at the present moment, while also helping us to develop our breath and strength of mind and body. Surveys have shown that people who practice yoga are more aware of their bodies than those who don't practice yoga. People also tend to be more satisfied with and less critical of their bodies, promoting more positive body image and self esteem.

Join us as we talk about the power of yoga with Daisy!

Episode 83: Boundaries Before the Holidays with Denise Correll Nov 03, 2022

While many of us would like to imagine the holidays to be idyllic, the reality is that sometimes it's not.

The holidays can be emotionally, physically, and psychologically taxing, and every family, no matter how loving, has its fair share of challenges. Do we break the people-pleasing pattern which is typically at our own expense, or do we set boundaries and prioritize some of our needs and give at a sustainable rate?

My friends- you, your sanity, and your well-being matters! For sure. Join us today, as Denise Correll from the Enlightened Empaths podcast and I discuss boundaries before the holidays. We laugh, we almost cry, and we laugh again, as we have a heart to heart on breaking the people-pleasing habit, and practice the art of self-care and self defense. Why? Because it totally matters. Your well-being depends upon it.

You can find the amazing and talented Denise at thegratefulmessenger.com.

Episode 82: MomTalk with Oriana Gliessman and Carla Roa Oct 27, 2022

It's that kind of episode today! Just talking about the things that we do understand and the things that we don't, the love and the frustration, the funny and sometimes not so funny. Being real with my own issues, my increased frustration with my little girl than boy sometimes, as I continue to see how I act and react, and check myself. It's a fun episode as we sometimes agree and disagree, but all of it is A-OK. Get your coffee and tea, chill-ax, and laugh with us, as we get real with some of the goings on in our own lives. Who else to bounce it off than other moms you trust?

And don't forget! If you're loving the podcast, rate us! Subscribe! Send your friends your Fave episodes! Go back and listen to the ones that you haven't. It helps a lot. This is totally a project of love which began with my breakdown, as I continue to work towards my breakthrough. And thank you for inviting us into your lives!

Episode 81: Humans Changing Food with Jonathan Miller Oct 20, 2022

We’ve got a great show today, as Jonathan Miller is back, to talk about how humans have changed our food. Processed food isn't a modern invention, it's as old as humanity itself and may have helped create our species, although today, there is a far more negative connotation with the polystyrene-like snacks. Processed food has, for better or worse (and likely both), changed our relationship with food.

Join us in this super informative and interesting show as we not only rethink our food, but where it comes from, and how it’s made. Jonathan is a personal chef cooking for clients in the central coast area. He has been cooking healthful, vegetable-forward, and seasonal food for over 15 years, and less healthful but still tasty food even longer than that!

Episode 80: Flying like Jonathan Livingston with Dr. Larry Arias Oct 13, 2022

I am super excited about this interview because I've become a huge fan of the book Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach and of Dr. Larry Arias. They're both THAT special.

Jonathan Livingston Seagull is a bird that tries to perfect the art of flying. He may be a bird, but he's a badass, who's gonna-become-a-renegade bird. He has an unbounded passion for flight despite the rebuke of his clan or flock. He's bored with his life, disheartened by the passionless lives of those around him, and he's made an outcast because he can't conform. This book shares a profound truth about our existence.

And I get to discuss this special book with Dr. Larry Arias. Larry is a pharmacist and would-be creative person who lives with his husband, dog, and two cats in magical Santa Cruz. His interests include discovering beauty and humor in unusual places, finding the perfect balance in things that are “weird” and “cool,” and rooting for the underdogs of society. He hopes to one day move from his professional career and pursue a path that allows him to amalgamate his interests into artwork that can be shared with the world.

Episode 79: Live Like Leo with Dinasha Cellura Oct 06, 2022

Welcome to today’s show! I’m excited to have Dinasha Cellura on the podcast as she talks about her organization, the Live Like Leo Foundation. She started this organization with her husband to serve and guide our youth, after experiencing the tragic loss of her son, Leo, in 2020. Their foundation, through grants, finances expenses related to learning abroad programs for underprivileged young adults - giving young minds the opportunity to become global citizens, empowering them to lead their own communities with compassion and inclusion in order to create a kinder, more connected world. It’s incredible how much they have already given back to children in the community, despite having lost their young son recently.

As Dinasha describes her organization, she describes what she and her family created in Leo’s spirit, which is thoroughly profound and inspirational.

Dinasha speaks beautifully from the heart, as she shares her life with us and her foundation that came from it. Please join us as Dinasha Cellura talks to us about how she continues to carry the pain and honors her son in what she does in her time left here, as she gives herself permission to continue living. Please also consider donating to their wonderful foundation- Live Like Leo, and you can find their website at livelikeleo.org.

Episode 78: Lover of Everything Old with Janae Thomas Sep 29, 2022

When Janae Thomas was a little girl, she loved walking in cemeteries for fun, and she still loves walking in cemeteries for fun! Janae literally loves everything old. I chose to interview Janae today because I've never met someone who quite sees the beauty of the past like her. She appreciates history and legends, without judgement. As we live our lives, perhaps we are sometimes too busy to think about what had been. Join us as I talk with Janae about newel posts, old houses, hair in stained glass, and old Indian burial grounds in Santa Cruz, CA. Who knows, maybe next time, you'll notice the faces in the window of an old house, captured on camera. Janae did.

Episode 77: The Well-being of Our Children with Dr. Garry Crummer, MD Sep 22, 2022

Children today are faced with an increasingly complex world. What does a child need to thrive?

Most people know that children need shelter, food, and love to be happy and healthy, but there's more to consider. Overall child well-being can be affected by the child's own personality and those around them like their family and community. While providing a uniform definition of child well-being is difficult, it's generally understood that a child's well-being is a measure of the quality of their life, including how well they are and how well their life is going. This broad definition can easily encompass the different ways of assessing child well-being, such as health, education, family or social life, or safety and security concerns.

A child's well-being is important, as it allows us to understand how children are coping in their world. It is with their well-being that we begin to learn about resilience.

Join us in today's conversation as we talk about our children! Their well-being matters, because it's the building of a better foundation for the stronger sense of self. And what can't you do, if you have all of you? Dr. Garry Crummer, MD, is a board certified doctor in Pediatrics and Integrative and Holistic Medicine, in Santa Cruz, CA.

Episode 76: Loss and Change with Dr. Chris Fahrenbach Sep 15, 2022

On today's episode, we have my favorite psychologist back on the show, Dr. Chris Fahrenbach! We talk about Loss and Change in our lives, both the collective loss and our personal loss. Sometimes, with loss and change, we grieve what has happened, and our grieving is a form of learning - one that teaches us how to be in the world. Whether you're facing the end of a job or relationship, the death of a loved one, or organizational change, or the loss of something very important to you, the way you say goodbye can mean the difference between stagnating in grief and thriving in the future. Learn about how we can transform our struggles into inspiring new beginnings. Go You!

And if you're LOVING the show, don't forget to support us by subscribing, telling your friends, and leaving us a great review! All of it seriously helps!!

Episode 75: Being the Boss of You with Carla Roa and Kim Rodriguez Sep 08, 2022

In this life's journey, you are your own driver! Get in the driver's seat!

Is there an aspect of your life where you feel like it's time to take charge? If we don't advocate for ourselves, who honestly will? On this week's episode, my friends Carla Roa and Kim Rodriguez join me to discuss what it means to "be the boss of you." It begins with understanding the priorities that define you. Deep commitment to your personal goals can drive you to break through limited beliefs, to act on your own behalf. When you take charge of your life, you can make the positive life changes you have been dreaming about. Being you is super important.

Episode 74: Complicated Sibling Relationships with Cierra Ryczek Aug 04, 2022

Today we are talking Siblings! I hope that you do have a fantastic relationship with your siblings, but sometimes that’s not the case. It’s an important relationship, but sometimes as we get older, the relationship can become more complicated. It’s one of the longest relationships in a person’s life, as you grow up in the same environment, share the same parents, and look back on common memories and similar experiences. And even though we share our history, while the relationship is unique, sometimes it’s just hard.

Cierra Ryzcek is on the show today as we get real and converse about siblings. She has been an independent jewelry artist for over 12 years and for the past 10 years has owned her edgy, modern, surf & beach styled boutique called Lumen Gallery, located in the Heart of Capitola Village. You can check out her amazing store at lumengal.com.

If you're loving the podcast, please don't forget to subscribe and leave us a great review however you get your podcasts! This is a project of love, as we talk about real things that actually matter - because it's empowering and it contributes to your health and well-being. Live Your Life!

We will be taking a short summer break, and will be returning on 9/8/2022. Stay tuned for more exciting and thoughtful shows!! Take time to check out the older shows that you missed!

Episode 73: Friendship with Oriana Gliessman Jul 28, 2022

"A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails," - Donna Roberts.

Strong friendships are a critical aspect of most people's emotional well-being. Research shows that close friendships are associated with greater happiness, self esteem, and sense of purpose such that people with close connections are healthier, recover from certain illnesses more quickly, and live longer. It's Legit!

On today's episode, I sit down with my friend Oriana Gliessman as we get real and discuss friendship. Oriana has always had friends, while I recently have more friends. Join us in this fun conversation as we talk about what is a good friend, how we can be a better friend, and, well, are friendships just confusing sometimes?

Episode 72: Second Chances with Karen Snedeker Jul 21, 2022

Karen Snedeker is on the show today to talk about her near death experience. At the end of a mission trip to Brazil, a truck going at full speed struck their car while they were stopped alongside the freeway. The majority of the impact was on the side in which she was sitting. A horrific accident, where the car had been crushed, Karen came out of that accident without any external bleeding, although she sustained 7 fractures in her pelvis, and 30% of her femur was displaced. Her injuries healed without surgery. While an incredible story of survival, her journey also brings up the power of faith, prayer, community, and the ineffable.

Karen is a Santa Cruz STEAM and Math educator and she has participated, lead, and hosted numerous mission trips in response to her passions of connecting with diverse cultures and deepening her faith.

Episode 71: Great Poop: Ferments and Beans with Jonathan Miller Jul 14, 2022

Everybody poops and most of us don’t talk about it. And while it may not be pleasing to talk about our bowel movements, our poop offers us valuable clues to our health.

On today’s episode, Jonathan Miller returns to the show to talk about his love of ferments and beans, one of the ways in which we can improve our BM’s. If you’re producing soft, well formed logs that aren’t hard to push out and are very regular, then your bowels are probably in good shape. If not, consider listening to this episode to learn about how ferments and beans can add to your health. It’s a beyond the poop kind of moment.

Jonathan Miller is a personal chef cooking for clients in the central coast area. He has been cooking healthful, vegetable-forward, seasonal food for over 15 years, and less healthful but still tasty food even longer than that!

Episode 70: When Things Fall Apart with Dr. David Clarke Jul 06, 2022

How can we live our lives when everything seems to fall apart—when we are continually overcome by fear, anxiety, and pain?

The answer, Pema Chödrön suggests, might be just the opposite of what you expect. Pema shows that moving toward painful situations and becoming intimate with them can open up our hearts in ways we never before imagined. She draws upon traditional Buddhist wisdom and offers life-changing tools for transforming suffering into perhaps joy.

On today’s episode, Dr. David Clarke, MD and I discuss Pema Chodron’s best-selling classic, When Things Fall Apart. Because sometimes, chaos is our teacher.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, tell your friends, and leave us a 5-star review! Save your life, by having these conversations!

Episode 69: Ascended Female Masters with Josie Teresi Jun 30, 2022

Today on the podcast, we discuss Ascended Female Masters! Ascended Masters are enlightened beings whom many believe have evolved beyond the need to reincarnate on earth and now act from a higher plane of existence to assist humans in their movement toward enlightenment, guiding the human race in its evolution. Think Mary, the Beloved Mother; Isis the Egyptian goddess of Nature; and Guanyin, the goddess of mercy, compassion, and protection. We hear about these ascended masters in our society, we see images of them, but have we ever really ever thought about them, considering that their imagery is still ever present? Join us in this fascinating conversation as Josie Teresi and I discuss these ascended female masters, who are ever-present to guide us to a higher path. Maybe it’s silly, maybe it can make you feel better, or maybe focusing on the world’s female masters may further enlighten you. You decide.

Josie Teresi is an intuitive energy healer, reiki healer, counselor, and YouTuber. She has published several books, including You Were Born a Star, Now What? based on the teachings of “A Course In Miracles” and the Unity Philosophy. Visit her webstie, josieteresi.com, and her YouTube channel, Into Light.

Episode 68: Dopamine Nation with Dr. Anna Lembke, MD Jun 23, 2022

On today’s show, we have psychiatrist Dr. Anna Lembke, the author of Dopamine Nation, here to talk about dopamine, which rules the pain and pleasure centers of the mind. She describes that we live in a time of indulgence with unparalleled access to high-reward and high-dopamine stimuli. In an era of overconsumption and instant gratification, Dopamine Nation explains the personal and societal price of being ruled by the next fix- and how to manage it. Her amazing book helps guide people to find a healthy balance between pleasure and pain. It can not only transform your thinking, but your life. Join us in this fascinating conversation!

Dr. Lembke is the Medical Director of Stanford Addiction Medicine. A clinician scholar, she has published more than a hundred peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, and commentaries in prestigious medical journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine and JAMA. She is also the author of Drug Dealer, MD, and Dopamine Nation, a book that shows that the secret to finding balance is combining the science of desire with the wisdom of recovery.

You can find Dr. Lembke at annalembke.com.

Episode 67: Living Duchenne with Sara Aluffi Jun 16, 2022

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy, milestones for a child reverse themselves. Kids eventually regress, moving backwards in their development.
On today’s episode, Sara Aluffi is on the show to talk about her younger son, Joaquin, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Duchenne is a rare genetic disorder, primarily affecting males, causing the muscles in the body to become weak and damaged over time. Duchenne is eventually fatal. Join us, as Sara Aluffi gives us a candid look into their lives, this heartbreaking disease, and the love that binds them, despite the pain.

Sara is the founder of a nonprofit organization called Joaquins Warriors DMD. You can find her nonprofit at joaquinswarriors.com.

Episode 66: Dyslexia Is…with Judy Robinson Jun 09, 2022

Dyslexia is so common, affecting 20% of the population and represents 80-90% of all those with learning disabilities. It can include slow or inaccurate reading, poor spelling, poor writing, or mixing up similar words. It can occur in anyone, and the level of severity may be different. People who are very bright can be dyslexic.

It’s important to think about and to address appropriately- as dyslexia can affect a person’s self image. Students with dyslexia often end up feeling “dumb” and less capable than they actually are. They can encounter a lot of stress due to academic problems, and may become less resilient.

While it is a lifelong condition, with the proper help and early identification, people can learn to read and write well, so that they can live their fullest life.

Join us, as Judy Robinson is on the show to talk about this really common condition. She is a retired educator who specializes in reading and autism spectrum disorders. Judy lives in Carlisle, MA.

Episode 65: Acupuncture and Chronic Pain with Dr. Lishanna Emmert May 26, 2022

Chronic pain is one of the leading causes of long-term disability in the world. And it’s generally known that the power of medicine to relieve pain remains sadly inadequate. Dealing with chronic pain can wear a person down. Oftentimes, people also experience frustration and mental health issues because of the pain. People who suffer from chronic pain are three times more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, and are twice as likely to be at risk for suicide. Pain can affect all aspects of someone’s life.

Daniel Clauw has said in a 2019 lecture, there isn’t “any drug in any chronic-pain state that works in better than one out of three people.” He went on to say that nonpharmacological therapy should instead be “front and center in managing chronic pain — rather than opioids, or for that matter, any of our drugs.”

Our approach with chronic pain is mostly medications, specifically opioids. However, chronic pain patients require a multifactorial approach, but unfortunately, our approach is not necessarily multifactorial. Join us, as we talk with Dr. Lishanna Emmert about acupuncture as a treatment modality to help with chronic pain. You can find Dr. Emmert at Solis.care.

Episode 64: From Addiction to Recovery with Christopher Greer May 19, 2022

Christopher Greer joins the show today to continue our discussion on addiction. Having worked in primary care, and as I continue to work in the hospital, I have witnessed so many people dealing with addiction. Those who struggle with addiction often hide it until it can’t be hidden anymore. I’ve seen people in their worst state, and I would wonder if they had reached their rock bottom. The truth is, no matter how bad the state – could be coma in a young person – you don’t know if they’ve reached that place where they finally choose their life. Only they know. And it’s really hard to see, witnessing someone’s demise because of addiction. There is so much harm that’s done, not only to them, but also to the people who love them. That’s why we continue to talk about hard topics on the show – because with learning and understanding, there can be a possibility for heathier choices and courage for something better.

Christopher Greer is a therapist in Santa Cruz, and he earned his Masters in Social Work. He spent the last few years working at a local non-profit providing varying levels of support for people struggling with Substance Use Disorder, individuals with varying mental health disorders, and those who have been involved in the criminal justice system. And he helps his clients with their mental health and well being, to consider the whole person. You can find him at chrisgreertherapy.com.

Episode 63: On the 4 Agreements with Cierra Ryczek May 12, 2022

On today’s show, Cierra Ryczek and I discuss The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. It was a New York Times Bestseller for almost a decade, and it is a timeless and inspiring book with many great lessons. Everything we do is based on agreements we have made: agreements with ourselves, with other people, with God, with life. But the most important agreements are the ones that we make with ourselves. Don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, this amazing book offers a powerful way of thinking that can transform our lives.

Join us for a fun and upbeat conversation on this timeless classic! Plus, Cierra is back on the show! Love, Love, Love our discussions, as well as the unpredictability of our conversations!?! You can also find Cierra’s lovely shop at lumengal.com.

Episode 62: Chiara Woods on Building a Life with Purpose May 04, 2022

The psychologist Douglas LaBier believes all life forms have purpose, and we as humans feel a drive to define a purpose for our lives. Maybe it’s okay to be comfortable just existing, not being aware of why we do things or behave as we do, but the drive to find meaning may also be essential to our human experience. Your purpose is unique to you. Your purpose helps to create meaning in your life, and it offers a sense of direction guiding your path. If you’ve ever wondered about purpose, join us in this interesting conversation with Chiara Woods! She is a Mindset and Career Transition Coach, and host of The Soulicitor Podcast. In her prior career, Chiara worked as a corporate lawyer, when her life changed in 2009. Today, Chiara helps women who feel stuck in an unfulfilling career by helping them to overcome their fears, figure out what they want, and plan a life that they love. You can find her at chiarawoods.com.

Episode 61: Ayurvedic Medicine with Dr. Manas Kshirsagar, MS, AD Apr 28, 2022

Meet Dr. Manas Kshirsagar: a board certified Ayurvedic doctor. Ayurvedic medicine is one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems: where the goal is to cleanse the body and to restore the balance to the body, mind, and spirit. He provides Ayurvedic consultations at his clinic in Santa Cruz, CA, and teaches both health professionals as well as the community how to care for one’s health and well-being. Providing a holistic approach to medicine, his philosophy of healing revolves around diet, yoga, meditation, detoxification, nutrition, and effective stress management. Join us in this fascinating conversation. You can find Dr. Kshirsagar at ayurvedichealing.net.

Episode 60 – Family Secrets with Yvonne Liu Apr 21, 2022

Family Secrets. We all have them. And while family secrets can seem terrifying or traumatic, these discoveries also have the power to liberate, heal, and transform us.

On today’s show, we have Yvonne Liu to talk about her life as an adoptee and childhood trauma survivor. She is a freelance writer, who lives in Los Angeles, whose her Huffpost adoption essay was viewed over 1.5 million times in one week. She has written multiple articles and essays, and is currently working on her memoir. Her work has appeared in the NY Times, Newsweek, salon, and NBC News. She had kept her family’s secret for over 60 years, and is now writing about it, telling her truth and her story. You can find her at yvonneliuwriter.com. Join us!

Episode 59: Redemption and Renewal with Rabbi Eli Cohen Apr 14, 2022

On today’s episode, we have Rabbi Eli Cohen on the show again to talk with us about Passover, as it brings up the powerful theme of redemption. The holiday commemorates freedom and justice for all.

Passover is centered around the retelling of the biblical story of the Jewish people being freed from slavery in Egypt. The holiday is so rich in symbolism and meaning, as it incorporates themes of springtime, homeland, family, Jewish history, social justice, and freedom. The central ritual of Passover is the Seder, which is a ritual packed feast with symbolic foods, intended to help the Jewish people relive God’s great redemptive act. The overarching theme of Passover is redemption – the divine redemption of the Israelites for the understanding of God, divine morality, and ethics.

I’m really honored to have Rabbi Eli back on the show, to talk with us about redemption and renewal, as we can all think about how we can celebrate our freedom and the profound meaning it has on all of our lives.

You can find Rabbi Eli Cohen at cysantacruz.com.

Episode 58: Healthful Eating with Jonathan Miller Apr 07, 2022

We have a super fun conversation today, as Jonathan Miller is on the show to talk about healthful food. He brings up the impact of globalization on food and how it’s changed how we eat. It’s certainly a reminder how the convenience and availability of food doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for us. And he describes to us what real eating is! I promise you, he’s going to inspire you such that you’re going to want to make more one pot wonders, for your health!

Jonathan Miller is a personal chef cooking for clients in the central coast area. He has been cooking healthful, vegetable-forward, seasonal food for over 15 years, and less healthful but still tasty food even longer than that! Though he claims his favorite bean is the Good Mother Stallard bean, it’s actually impossible to have a favorite since almost all beans are delicious!

Episode 57: Aging Joyfully with Connie Sobczak Mar 31, 2022

We live in a youth-obsessed society, that tells us our value declines as we get older. Simply being alive implies growing older, but after a certain point, what may lie ahead becomes more real. We may desire something that we can’t humanly have, as we are made to believe that our youthfulness is our ticket to remain relevant. Then, we might feel shamed for not better preserving that youth. It’s exhausting. And it’s merciless. Instead of seeing aging as something to fight, what joys can we amplify to mitigate the losses of youth, so that we continue to embrace who we are?

Join us for today’s conversation! Connie Sobczak is here to share her thoughts on aging. She is the founder of The Body Positive https://thebodypositive.org/. Plus, Connie has authored two outstanding books – Embody: Learning to Love Your Unique Body (and quiet that critical voice!) and The Wise Woman Guidebook. You can also find her at conniesobczak.com. And check out her AMAZING TedX talkhttps://www.ted.com/talks/connie_sobczak_embracing_your_critical_voice_the_gateway_to_self_love

Episode 56: The Journey through Grief with Kim Rodriguez Mar 24, 2022

The death of someone we love, changes our lives forever. And after someone dies, it’s almost always a long and painful journey.

According to Dr. Alan Wolfelt, after working with thousands of grieving people over the years, he writes that he has “learned that if we are to heal we cannot skirt the outside edges of our grief. Instead, we must journey all through it.” Grief is what we think and feel on the inside when someone we love dies. It’s the internal meaning given to the experience of loss. Mourning is the outward expression of our grief, the difficult journey that we define.

On today’s show, we have my friend Kim Rodriguez to talk about her husband’s death and she speaks about rediscovering what it means to live a full life.

Episode 55: Integrative Manual Therapy with Kathy Nuss Mar 17, 2022

“Everyone’s body has some story to tell.” Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT) is a unique set of techniques, approaches, and methodologies that address pain, dysfunction, disease, and disability. IMT achieves health and healing by taking into account the whole body, identifying the primary source of dysfunction or the underlying cause of a problem, rather than just treating symptoms. Practitioners use their hands to diagnose and treat clients, for the opportunity of healing and rehabilitation, as an alternative to or complement of more traditional treatments. Kathy Nuss is an occupational therapist who focuses on self-empowerment, by helping her patients find their path to wellness and identifying underlying causes and needs. You can find her wellnessfromwithinpg.com.

Episode 54 – Roman Catholic Womenpriests with Dr. Chris Fahrenbach Mar 10, 2022

I guess we’re going there today. And it’s a hella interesting conversation!

And as Dr. Chris Fahrenbach says in the interview, “If you can’t talk about something…Why is that?”

I am a Catholic. And I don’t understand why Womenpriests are not formally accepted. As a Catholic, I often find myself at a crossroads. When I feel lost, confused, or really sad, going into a church makes me feel safe and heard. As a child, we started to attend church as our family started to fall apart. Although I believe God exists everywhere, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be in a place of worship, sometimes that faith is more obvious to me in a church or in the woods. Although I feel called to the Catholic faith, I am tolerant of all religions, as I believe, to each his or her own. As much as the church comforts me, I don’t agree with everything the it teaches. For example, why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests marry?
On today’s episode, Dr. Chris Fahrenbach, a psychologist here in Santa Cruz, CA, talks with us about Roman Catholic Womenpriests, as she, herself, is one. And, well, I can’t hide my adoration for Dr. Fahrenbach. She is so thoughtful and introspective as she guides us into this discussion. Join us! To learn more, goto romancatholicwomenpriests.org

Episode 53: Emotionally Immature Parents with Cierra Ryczek Mar 03, 2022

We’re baaaaaaack!! Season 2 begins today! Hello! Welcome! We’ve missed you!!

On today’s episode, my friend Cierra Ryczek and I discuss Lindsay Gibson’s book, Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents. Even the title made me pause, because, well, it feels like a gigantic dose of reality. Like a bit of vomit plus a good cry. It’s definitely an Ouch (plus probably a couple of expletives). The book teaches us that emotionally immature parents cause emotional neglect and rejection, which have long term effects, with the reality that our parents could have been toxic. But she says that this neglect wasn’t about us, it was about them. If you’ve felt lonely as a child, join us in this interesting and super fun conversation as we try to begin to understand. Two women together in a room, who have experienced emotional loneliness as children – who are not going to continue to live that way as adults. Spiritual Gangsters, we are!

You can find Cierra and her beautiful store at lumengal.com.

And thank you for giving us a listen! We are a relatively new podcast, and if you are loving the show, please don’t forget to give us a great rating, and tell all your friends. I am rooting for the badass that is you because the truth is, if you put your mind and soul into it, there is nothing that you can’t do. For Sure.

Episode 52: For Realz with Dr. Michelle Dec 23, 2021

On today’s episode, Oriana Gliessman asks ME questions! It definitely feels different not being the one to ask the questions, but the one answering them. Awkward, informative, fun, or funny?!? Always, all of the above! We talk about the path, the process, what led to it, and well, what now? Why didn’t I just buy the fancy red sports car during my midlife crisis?? This will be the last show as we close out the first season – 52 episodes! I will be taking a 2 month break before we return on 2/24/22. If you’re loving the podcast, don’t forget to rate it, write a great review, or follow me on instagram or facebook!

Thank you to all my listeners! I am so grateful to all of you who are listening. Thank you for letting me into your lives, and, hopefully, together we feel more courage than fear, we laugh more than we cry, we feel more faith than doubt, more hope than despair, and more light than darkness.

Thank you to my amazing website designer, wonderful and very competent friend, Katherine Hallissy Ayala at CodeByKatherine. I am so grateful you chose to take a chance with me!

And thank you to my fantastic and utterly professional Sound Producer, Will Mitchell at Hands on Sound. You make sound hella amazing, and thank you for aiding me on my journey as a podcaster.

Episode 51: Angels in My Hair with Lorna Bryne Dec 16, 2021

Lorna Bryne, an international bestselling author, is here to talk about Angels! It’s amazing to think how the imagery of angels is recognized by virtually everyone, yet in our society, many of us do not believe that they actually exist. Born in Ireland, Lorna is the author of seven best-selling books, including Angels in My Hair, A Message of Hope From the Angels, and Angels at my Fingertips. Lorna has become a spiritual teacher as a result of her remarkable gift, as she has been seeing and talking with angels her whole life, as she sees them as a natural part of her waking life. Join us in this fascinating conversation, as we talk about messages from the Angels!

Episode 50: Astrology with Jenifer Edwards Dec 09, 2021

“It’s a wise person who rules the stars, a fool who is ruled by them”, -Martinie.

Today we’re talking about Astrology with Jenifer Edwards! She is a gifted Maine-based Intuitive Astrologer who believes that her divine mission is to assist others in discovering their Soul’s Purpose through their unique astrological fingerprint, their birth chart. The birth chart is a soul map of our journey in this lifetime, filled with the challenges we choose to master as well as the blessings which guide and enhance our human experience. I am so excited to discuss Astrology with Jenifer! If you love reading your horoscope, you’ll find this conversation fascinating! You can find Jenifer at thankgoddess.org.

Episode 49: Gut Health with Dr. Jyothi Rao, MD Dec 02, 2021

On today’s episode, we have Dr. Jyothi Rao, MD on the show to speak about Gut Health! Learning about the gut is extremely important. Our gut has tons of bacteria in it, and these gut bugs are responsible for much of our immune system defense as well as hormone and mood regulation. Our gut bacteria can even decrease inflammation, and they likely play a role in how we get sick. Although we may not be able to control our genetic predispositions, we can control our environmental triggers. Join us in this fascinating topic, as Dr. Rao talks about how we can heal our gut. She is the author of Body on Fire: How Inflammation Triggers Chronic Illness and the Tools We Have to Fight It. Dr. Rao is an Internal Medicine doctor and practices Integrative Medicine. You can find her at raowellness.com

Episode 48: Gratitude and Well-being with Nisha Sidhu Nov 18, 2021

On today’s episode- we talk about Gratitude! There are scientifically validated benefits of gratitude, and it’s so much more than saying “thank you”. Gratitude affects us mentally and physically. There are numerous studies that suggest that showing gratitude can increase one’s happiness, decrease inflammation in one’s body, reduce stress, increase optimism and change our brain, increase satisfaction in life, and build greater resilience. Join us in this compelling conversation with Nisha Sidhu, who is a Mindful Life Coach, as we talk about celebrating the present! You can find Nisha at myndtreat.com.

Episode 47: The Impact of Adoption with Rebecca Hurdis Nov 12, 2021

On today’s episode, we have Rebecca Hurdis on the show to talk about her life as an adoptee. Born in Seoul, Korea, Rebecca Hurdis is a transracial transnational adoptee. She spent her childhood on the east coast, before moving to California when she was 20 years old. Growing up in the 1980’s and 90’s when most of America believed in the model minority myth and assimilation for Asian Americans, Rebecca argues that such beliefs are false and dangerous. She brings up the idea that adoption is associated with trauma: it has been suggested that trauma is at the ‘Center of all Adoption’ as adoption cannot occur without trauma. And she brings up the theory of the Primal Wound, how abandonment and loss can be imprinted on the unconscious minds of those who have been separated from their biological mothers at birth. Join us for this fascinating and thoughtful conversation!

Episode 46: My Adventure with Neurosurgery with Dr. Heidi Olander, MD Nov 04, 2021

On today’s episode, my friend, Dr. Heidi Olander, MD, shares her recent neurosurgical health crisis. In spring 2020, she was noted to have a lesion in her brain, with the potential to be something malignant or benign- and she was recommended for neurosurgery for a medical diagnosis. She walks us through her medical journey. One of the commonalities in life is that we will all inevitably face one or more crises or have to deal with adversity. But perhaps an important key in learning from our adversity, and becoming resilient, is to emerge from the other side of a difficult experience, as intact as possible. As scary as these experiences can seem, they can also add to our lives and ultimately help to heal us. Dr. Olander is an Ob-Gyn doctor with Kaiser Permanente San Jose and Santa Cruz.

Ep.45: A Better Menopause with Dana Ramsey Oct 28, 2021

What’s clear is that even though we think we may know, most women do not have a good understanding of menopause. We have an idea of what occurs, but do we truly know what is to be expected? Menopause is diagnosed after you’ve gone without a period for one year, but, well, it doesn’t just last one year. There’s been a longstanding viewpoint, which is oftentimes misogynistic, that menopause is viewed as a pre-death, decreases a woman’s worth, or affects one’s femininity. But with the appropriate knowledge on this very important women’s health issue, and by being in the know, you can help yourself through the process, and have a better menopause to live your fullest life. Join us in this fascinating conversation with Dana Ramsey, CNM, MSN. She is the founder of Nurture Women’s Health & Fertility. Be empowered! You can find Dana at nurturesantacruz.com.

Trailer: Welcome to Lost or Found Oct 23, 2021

Let me tell you about the podcast…

Episode 44: Book Club: Dying to Be Me, with Oriana Gliessman Oct 21, 2021

In this episode, Oriana Gliessman and I hold our first book club meeting! We discuss Anita Moorjani’s memoir, Dying to Be Me. It’s the book I most recommended to my patients to read, as a doctor working in primary care. What if we can all take a more active role in choosing our authentic life experiences, without experiencing a near-death experience to get there!?! Dying to Be Me is about Anita’s near-death experience and how she has chosen to live differently, having almost died. Anita also brings up her spontaneous remission from stage 4 lymphoma. When I first read her book, I was truly impacted by how she was going to live, having almost died, and, well, it shook me. I started to wonder why I was wasting precious time, how we can all choose to live differently, if we are less afraid. I also pondered the fact that there are some things the practice of medicine cannot explain. Although spontaneous remissions are rare, there exist documented cases that have been published in medical journals throughout the world. I’m not sure how they can happen. For Anita, her getting sick and healing from her illness was very much a part of her spiritual journey, weaving the tapestry of her life, and, in turn, affecting all of ours. Join us in this fun discussion as we talk about this fascinating book!

Episode 43: Mindful Eating with Kathy Nuss Oct 14, 2021

On today’s episode, I speak with Kathy Nuss, who is an Occupational Therapist in Pacific Grove, Monterey, and we talk about mindful eating. Considering the fact that the rate of obesity has been consistently rising in the U.S., have we forgotten what comprises a healthy diet? The U.S. weight loss market is huge, selling “quick and easy” weight loss programs which are ineffective in the long run. Oftentimes we target the individual, but there are environmental triggers everywhere. We have become a culture that loves fat, sugar, and salt. How do we make the healthy choice when our environment doesn’t necessarily support this? How do we develop a healthier relationship with food? On today’s episode we begin to talk about honoring our hunger, making peace with food, challenging the food police, discovering satisfaction, feeling our fullness, and ultimately, respecting our body. You can find Kathy at wellnessfromwithinpg.com

Episode 42: Addiction is a Family Disease with Josie Teresi Oct 07, 2021

On today’s episode, we have Josie Teresi back on the show, and she talks about her son’s addiction. When a family member becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol, not only do they face significant challenges, but it also impacts the rest of the family. It affects not only the individual with the “problem,” but also causes sickness within the entire family unit. The effects hardly go unnoticed: they can include broken trust, communication issues, financial problems, childhood trauma, PTSD, fear and anxiety, shame and guilt, lost relationships, and estrangement. Drug addiction causes the entire family unit to adapt to the chaos of addiction, negating their own health and well-being, creating new negative patterns to deal with loving someone suffering from the disease of addiction. All lives become interrupted and rattled. There is no doubt that addiction is a family disease. You can find Josie at josieteresi.com.

Episode 41: The Place of Now with Nisha Sidhu Sep 30, 2021

Meditation is a simple practice that everyone can do- which can reduce stress, invite calmness and clarity into our lives, and promote happiness. Even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference. It can often be described as healing from within. True meditation occurs in the Now and it involves paying close attention to the present moment – especially our thoughts, emotions, and sensations. Ekhart Tolle says, “You cannot be in your body without being intensely in the present moment,” suggesting that meditation is a simple way to stop some of the confusing commentary in our lives, and get back to the truth of the present moment. What more can you experience and do in your life if you reconnect with the power that has always been within you? On today’s show, I speak with Nisha Sidhu. She is a Mindful Life Coach who loves to empower others to be their best self with compassion, non-judgement, and authenticity. She is a meditation teacher and life coach, and you can find her on myndtreat.com

Episode 40: The Fourth Trimester with Hannelore Kieser-Deguara Sep 25, 2021

Just in case you didn’t know, there is a newly described fourth trimester. We know that there are three trimesters of pregnancy. The fourth trimester is the time between birth and 12 weeks postpartum, and perhaps this is the period where I wonder if women are most neglected, as a mother. On today’s show, we have Hannelore Kieser-Deguara, and she is a Postpartum doula. The postpartum period can be incredibly challenging- whether you are a first time mother or have had other children. And even though there is more awareness, there is still minimal support provided during the fourth trimester. It’s healthful and helpful to raise awareness about the demands of motherhood and the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. While having a baby is beautiful, the process of acclimating, learning, and functioning during this period can be very difficult and overwhelming. It’s not easy to care for someone new when you feel totally depleted. And you are not alone! Join Us!

Episode 39: Compassion and Palliative Care with Dr. Diane Meier, MD Sep 16, 2021

There is a conversation that we are not having in medicine – and that is related to our dying. Oftentimes when this conversation does happen, it is often too late for palliative care to do some good, to relieve suffering, to improve quality of life, during the time that we have left. And because this conversation doesn’t happen, or doesn’t occur early enough, death has become painful. Death is inevitable, it is a universal process that we all will go through one day, as we are living organisms. I believe that we have lost our way in the practice of medicine. We have forgotten the very foundation of medical practice, which is to relieve human suffering. We sacrifice our human connections in the practice of medicine because health care is first and foremost a business. We continue to treat patients even if the effort is futile, and sometimes we even offer harmful treatment, in the name of prolonging life- when it can be physically, emotionally, and spiritually damaging to our patients. Join us in this eye-opening conversation about palliative care, as it is a field that still represents ‘the good and humane’ in medical practice. Dr. Diane Meier, MD is the founder and was the longtime director of the Center to Advance Palliative Care, a national organization devoted to increasing access to quality health care in the U.S. for people living with a serious illness. She has received numerous awards and was the 2008 recipient of the MacArthur Foundation Fellowship (aka the MacArthur Genius Award).

Episode 38: The Biology of Belief with Dr. Bruce Lipton Sep 09, 2021

We have Dr. Bruce Lipton on the show today! He wrote The Biology of Belief, and he is here to talk about how our consciousness creates our life experiences. Ultimately, we manifest our beliefs. Our lives and our own health may be a manifestation of our belief system. Dr. Lipton is a stem cell biologist and is an internationally recognized authority in bridging science and spirit. A cell biologist by training, he taught at the University of Wisconsin’s School of Medicine, and later performed pioneering studies at Stanford University. Biology’s Central Dogma has been that life is controlled by genes and it’s only in the past 50 years – as we have increased knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of gene expression – that we know that our behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way in which our genes work. If the possession of the gene doesn’t necessarily mean that you get the disease, but a life out of harmony can activate the gene that we don’t want to activate… what are you going to do about it? The power is in your hands!

Episode 37: Chronic Inflammation with Dr. Monica Aggarwal, MD Aug 26, 2021

When the body becomes imbalanced, it becomes irritated and inflamed. I believe most of us live our lives in the chronic inflammatory state. Stresses have many external sources – it could be the people in your life, your job, lack of sleep, lack of activity, the death of a loved one, chronic illness or injury, pollution, or even what we put into our mouths. While acute inflammation is good and life-saving, chronic inflammation is not. Your bodily resources are utilized to deal with inflammation. And if inflammation is never turned off, our bodies only have so much reserve and can become imbalanced. On today’s show, we have Dr. Monica Aggarwal, MD. She is a cardiologist, author, and athlete. Her book, Body on Fire, which she wrote with Dr. Jyothi Rao, is so relevant to our lives and health. And today we talk about how we can trigger inflammation in our bodies and how we can also calm the inflammation that can cause sickness. You can find her at drmonicaaggarwal.com.

Episode 36: The Empath with Samantha Fey Aug 19, 2021

Empaths are highly sensitive individuals who have the ability to understand the experiences and feelings of others. It can be like a super power, though without boundaries, it can also feel like a draining curse. These are some signs that indicate that you could be an empath: Have you ever noticed that you’re deeply tuned into the feelings of others around you? Do you get overwhelmed in big crowds? When you see something sad on TV, does it feel overpowering to you? Have you ever noticed that you may feel fine before you talk with someone, but then you talk with that someone, and it’s almost like you feel and absorb THEIR pain, stress, and anxiety?

On today’s show, Samantha Fey is here to talk about Empaths! She is the host of two podcasts- “Psychic Teachers” and “Enlightened Empaths.” Join us in this engrossing conversation as we talk about Empaths. It’s important to recognize that because Empaths are natural healers of the world, we naturally want to make things better. But when we are not aware of who we are and we don’t have firm boundaries – we take on other people’s problems, and it can literally affect our own health. You can find Samantha Fey at samanthafey.com.

Episode 35: Celtic Spirituality: The Soul's Friend Aug 12, 2021

We live in a society where we focus on the external or only that which we can see. But what if we’re more than that? To be whole, our complexity requires acknowledgement. If we strive for balance in our lives, we need to consider not only the exterior but also the interior, the visible and the invisible, the known and unknown, the ancient and the new. On today’s show, we have Rowan Foxx Giles here to talk about Celtic Spirituality. She is an internationally acclaimed Intuitive Counselor. She is known worldwide for helping people to navigate their lives and achieve their goals through Anam Cara Soul Path Readings and Healings, and she is Celtic in heritage herself. The Anam Cara is a Celtic tradition of guidance and inner growth, as the literal translation of Anam Cara is “soul friend.” Join us as we talk about Celtic spirituality and life’s journey. You can find her at rowanfoxx.com.

Episode 34: The Gift of Love Aug 05, 2021

We have Monica Martinez, MPA, on the show today, to talk about her family’s experiences with foster care and adoption. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Encompass Community Services, Santa Cruz County’s largest health and human services nonprofit, where she provides vision for large-scale change at the local level. Being a parent is not easy, and being a parent of a child who has experienced trauma has its own challenges. Monica speaks with us today about her own family. Creating a safe, nurturing family environment is our topic of conversation today: feeling safe with our feelings, feeling accepted, having a sense of security, reducing the symptoms of trauma, and blossoming. Join us for this insightful conversation.

Episode 33: Cocooning with Oriana Gliessman Jul 29, 2021

On today’s episode, my friend Oriana Gliessman talks to us about her life, as she has been separated from her husband for over a year, and they have decided to end their marriage. In this thoughtful, insightful, and honest conversation, she uses the caterpillar metaphor of cocooning to describe her life right now: focusing her energy on getting to know herself again, discovering her own needs and wants, forging her path to her happiness. Cocooning is the process of enveloping or surrounding yourself in a protective and comforting way, insulated from perceived danger. Who would you become?

Episode 32: Improving Your Fertility, Naturally Jul 22, 2021

Infertility is fairly common in the United States, as it impacts about 15% of couples. Fertility is also known to steadily decline with age. Infertility can affect one or both partners- about a third of the time, infertility can be traced to the woman, a third of the cases can be traced to the man, and in the remaining cases, there are issues in both partners or no cause can be found. On today’s show, Dana Ramsey, CNM, MSN, talks about blending holistic, integrative care with modern medicine, to naturally improve fertility and conception. It is known that lifestyle factors, ways of life, can greatly influence overall health and well-being, including fertility. And on today’s show, we talk about healthy habits to optimize fertility. You can find Dana at nurturesantacruz.com.

Episode 31: Reincarnation with Dr. Jim Tucker, MD Jul 15, 2021

Is it possible for our consciousness to survive physical death? On this episode, I speak with Dr. Jim Tucker, MD, who is a Psychiatrist and a Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia, and is the director of the UVA Division of Perceptual Studies, as he discusses his work with children who report memories of previous lives. He is the author of Life before LIfe, and NY Times Bestseller, Return to Life. And as we discuss his work evaluating the evidence, we can’t help but also wonder- What happens after death? Could there be the survival of the soul after death? Join us in this fascinating conversation, as we discuss reincarnation. You can find Dr. Tucker at jimbtucker.com.

Episode 30: Addiction with Jane Dawson Jul 08, 2021

Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward, motivation, and memory functions. While alcohol or drug use is initially voluntary, and sometimes socially acceptable, some can stop with continued usage, and many cannot. The truth about addiction is that it is pervasive in our society. Mental health issues, emotional and physical pain, and stressors, are also recognized as driving factors behind a person’s misuse of drugs and alcohol. Self-medication suggests that there is an underlying cause that leads someone to use drugs, and the intention may be more to relieve dysphoria than to seek euphoria. Join us in this thoughtful conversation, as Jane Dawson, M.A., MFT, and I discuss addiction.

Episode 29: Fear is an Illusion Jul 01, 2021

Most of us spend a lot of energy organizing our lives around steering clear of what we fear most. What if fear isn’t something to avoid, fight, or feel badly about? What if fear exists to actually help you? When we ignore the message that our fears have for us, fear can become a health risk. On today’s show, Josie Teresi and I talk about our fears, and the important message it may have in our lives, as we talk about shifting our thinking to improve our overall health and well-being. Join us in this fascinating conversation! You can find Josie at josieteresi.com.

Episode 28: Near-Death Experiences with Kimberly Clark Sharp Jun 24, 2021

This week, we have Kimberly Clark Sharp on the show, to talk about near-death experiences. Near-death experiences occur when one is briefly dead or almost to the point of dying, and these experiences are often life changing. And having these experiences can dramatically transform people’s attitudes, values, beliefs, and behaviors. It brings up the possibility that some part of us may survive bodily death and also makes us wonder about the true nature of death. Ms. Sharp is the author of After the Light: The Spiritual Path to Purpose, and is the founder of Seattle International Association of Near-Death Studies. She was featured in the inaugural episode of the Netflix series Surviving Death. You can find her at www.seattleiands.org.

Episode 27: The Breadth of the Divine with Cyprian Consiglio Jun 17, 2021

In this episode, I speak with Cyprian Consiglio, OSB Cam, whois a Camaldolese Benedictine monk, musician, composer, author, and teacher of practical and integral spirituality. He is a Catholic monk, who is open to other religions and their teachings and who respects all aspects of our being human. Our conversation focuses on what the Catholic church and Bible teach in regards to the unknown mysteries of the spirit, soul, and body. Join us in this fascinating conversation as we talk about the Silence of God, and the Breadth of the Divine.

Episode 26: Loving Your Unique Body with Connie Sobczak Jun 10, 2021

Connie Sobczak founded the organization, The Body Positive, in honor of her sister, to ensure that her daughter would grow up in a new world – one where people are free to focus on the things in life that really matter. It is a community that offers freedom from the suppressive and oppressive messages from society, that cause people to be in a perpetual conflict with their own bodies. She is the author of Embody: Learning to Love Your Unique Body (and quiet that critical voice!), and she has a Ted talk entitled, “Embracing Your Critical Voice: The Gateway to Self-Love,” where she talks about learning to embrace ourselves, so that we are not derailed from our core truths. A truly fascinating and thought-provoking conversation- Join us!

Episode 25: Racial Injustices in Medicine Jun 03, 2021

Racial injustices exist in the U.S., and the implicit and explicit bias that exists contributes to racial disparities in healthcare. I talked with psychiatrist Dr. Norman Reynolds, MD, about racism in the United States, and how it has affected the practice of medicine historically up until now – as it is one more reflection of the fact that we do not have equity in our country. During the pandemic, there was a disproportionate toll of Covid19 hospitalizations and deaths among minority populations, and it’s known that U.S. pregnancy deaths are up, especially among minorities. Philosopher George Santayana said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Join us in this interesting conversation as we reflect on our history and our hopes for a better future for all.

Episode 24: Self-Care with Dr. Jessica Murphy May 27, 2021

Self-care is good for your health and well-being! Sometimes we can’t control the stressors in our lives, but we can control how we react to them. And when we take care of ourselves — and we take care of our mind, body, and spirit — we are building our resilience to handle the stressors that we can’t eliminate. Join us in this fun conversation as Dr. Jessica Murphy, DO, and I discuss self-care. Better equip yourself by taking care of yourself and promoting your well-being! Because when you do survive- What can’t you do?!? You are worth it!

Episode 23: Lifestyle Is Prevention with Dr. Nicole Harkin May 20, 2021

It’s amazing to think that simple lifestyle changes can have such a huge and powerful impact – but they do! You have so much control over your own health! Dr. Nicole Harkin, MD, FACC, is a preventive cardiologist, and in this episode we talk about sustainable lifestyle changes as prevention, primarily diet. If you’re feeling not so great despite “normal” labwork and tests, if you’re dealing with a chronic illness, or if you’re feeling healthy and want to learn more, this conversation may inspire you to rethink what we are putting into our bodies. Join us for this interesting conversation – as we talk about the scientific data in regards to diet. It’s empowering! Find Dr. Harkin at wholeheartcardiology.com.

Episode 22: What We Still Carry with Dr. Chris Fahrenbach May 13, 2021

In this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Christine Fahrenbach, PhD, about what we still carry in our lives. What if the truth has always been that we are all worthy of a beautiful life? Life can be stressful for all of us. But among people who have had trauma in their past and carry their trauma or remnants of it – including the stress from everyday – elevated stress levels are more common. The two main categories of trauma are commonly referred to as Big “T” and small “t” traumatizations. While Big T traumas can be seen as life threatening experiences, small “t” traumas are also painful and can include bullying, emotional abuse, difficult relationships, or loss of a pet. Join us in this interesting and insightful conversation as we discuss the possibilities of our lives!

Episode 21- Energy Vampires with Lisa Campion May 06, 2021

Energy vampires are people who drain your emotional energy, and if you really have one in your life, it may feel as if they are feeding off of your life force. They are everywhere. They can be your partner, your friend, your workmate, your client, or your patient. And sometimes these behaviors can be very toxic, as well as emotional and dramatic. Lisa Campion and I talk about energy vampires! If you have someone in your life that constantly hurts you and drains you- you may have one in your life.

Episode 20: As a Black Woman with Sola Adelowo Apr 29, 2021

Sometimes in life, we really can’t imagine what it’s like to be someone, unless we are in their shoes. Explicit and implicit bias exists. Racism exists, and with that, oppression. Sola Adelowo and I talk about her experiences as a black woman- in the U.S., Switzerland, and in South Africa. In a conversation that began after she had revealed to me that she was called the “N-word” by a white man, Sola talks about her own life. How can we honor all of humanity if we don’t recognize that not all are treated equally?

Episode 19- Child Sexual Abuse with Marybeth Beers Apr 22, 2021

This is a topic that every parent should know about.⁠ If you are a survivor- how have you been managing your memories?⁠ Understandably – it is a very difficult topic. But it is so unfortunately common- when 1/3 girls and at least 1/5 boys are sexually abused before the age of 18. And as many as 93% of victims under the age of 18 know the abuser. I speak with Marybeth Beers who, over 40 years ago, was sexually abused by her swim coach. She is here today, to talk about the impact that the experience made on her growing up and her adult life. Child sexual abuse is a significant but preventable public health problem. Although we may not be able to change the perpetrator, we can empower ourselves with knowledge and awareness- to prevent this from happening to our children, and their children.⁠

Episode 18: Second Victim Syndrome- A Doctor's Hidden Struggle, with Dr. Berry Armstrong Apr 15, 2021

The Second Victim Syndrome can occur when a health care professional makes a medical error and become traumatized by the event – manifesting psychological (such as shame, guilt, anxiety, grief, and depression), cognitive (such as burnout, secondary traumatic stress), and physical reactions that have a personal negative impact. And second victim syndrome may not necessarily be from a medical mistake, it can also be caused by a bad outcome for a patient. Dr. Berry Armstrong, MD, and I talk about second victim syndrome, the secret struggle of the medical professional as it is relatable to other fields, and how we can consider shining a light on our pain.

Episode 17: The Cautionary Tale of Ghosts with Jennifer Lyn Apr 08, 2021

What if there’s an afterlife, and life is not just as we believe it to be? What if, at our death, going to the light as a spirit, is a choice? As Jennifer Lyn discusses in this interview, there are earthbound spirits who were once human. Some remain angry. Some want to be left alone or remain in the shadows. Some stay behind because they feel their life was unfinished, or perhaps they are still searching for something and are scared. As we think about the choices that we can make in our lives, perhaps healing is critical, lest we hold onto those emotions in our hearts and soul forever. You can find Jennifer Lyn at jenniferlynmedium.com.

Episode 16: The Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism Apr 01, 2021

Rabbi Eli Cohen and I speak about the Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism. Kabbalah is a discipline and school of thought in Jewish mysticism, to explain the relationship between the unchanging and eternal God. We talk about how God moves in mysterious ways, how the essence of God could have always been there even when we don’t see it. A truly fascinating discussion as we talk about true knowledge as we try to understand our inner process, learn and grow, to know the essence of God.

Episode 15: In VaginaLand with Dr. Heidi Olander Mar 25, 2021

I speak with Dr. Heidi Olander, MD, who is an Ob-gyn physician at Kaiser Permanente San Jose and Santa Cruz about Vaginas, Vulvas, Women’s Libido, Menopause, and other Women’s Health issues. Often times misunderstood, perhaps uncomfortable as well, Dr. Olander and I talk about the state of the vagina, our vaginas. Have you ever wondered what normal is? Can the vulva change shape? Does taking hormones help our libido? What about vaginal discharge? Let’s talk about it! It’s female empowerment!

Episode 14: Narcissistic Personality Disorder with Josie Teresi Mar 18, 2021

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a mental condition in which people are self-centered, have an inflated opinion of their own selves, have a deep need for admiration and attention, and lack empathy for others. They are in love with a self image. But when a self image is not based on reality, it can manifest in behaviors that are manipulative, patronizing, selfish, and abusive. Josie Teresi and I talk about our own personal experiences with narcissistic personality disorder. You can find Josie at josieteresi.com.

Episode 13: End of Life Experiences with Dr. Christopher Kerr Mar 11, 2021

I speak with Dr. Christopher Kerr, MD, PhD, who is a hospice physician and end of life researcher, about end of life experiences. He wrote “Death Is But a Dream,” which is based on Dr. Kerr’s extensive research with hospice patients and their families - which highlights and validates the powerful dreams and visions often experienced at the end of life, that bring comfort and meaning to people who are dying. His Ted talk has over 3 million views, his work is featured in the Netflix docuseries “Surviving Death”, and most recently Dr. Kerr and his research team are featured in a public television documentary, “Death is but a dream”, which premiered on WNED PBS which serves Western New York, and is set to air nationally in April 2021. You can find him at drchristopherkerr.com.

Episode 12: Domestic Violence in Silicon Vallley with Ruth Darlene Mar 04, 2021

Abusers walk amongst us. In the U.S. - 1 out of 3 women and 1 out of 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. But this number does not include the more subtle forms of abuse, including emotional, financial, coercive control, and gaslighting. I speak with Ruth Darlene, who is the founder and Executive Director of WomenSV, which is an organization to help women who are dealing with a powerful and sophisticated abuser. These abuses are harder to detect, and her organization works to address and raise awareness on these subtle forms of abuse, which are demeaning, damaging, and distressful.

Episode 11: Calling In the Calling Out Culture with Loretta Ross Feb 25, 2021

The process of calling out in our culture today can be dehumanizing and vicious. An Activist and Professor at Smith College, Loretta Ross talks about how derisive calling out is, and brings up a more productive and humane approach. She describes Calling In, which is a call out but done privately involving conversation and civility, to promote understanding and true change. You can find her at lorettajross.com.

Episode 10: Taking Care of Our Brains with Dr. Christine Fahrenbach Feb 20, 2021

Dr. Chris Fahrenbach, PhD, and I talk about taking care of our brains! Pain is inevitable but suffering is optional. We can all have some control over how long we are going to suffer. Mental health is a critical aspect of our overall well-being and health. And preserving and restoring our mental health can help our ability to fully live our lives. Join us in this interesting conversation!

Episode 9: Healing thru Reiki Feb 13, 2021

Reiki is a complementary healing modality from Japan that uses the universal life force energy around us to heal the body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Lisa Campion, the author of "The Art of Psychic Reiki" and now "Energy Healing for Empaths," talks with us about how reiki can be used to improve health and enhance the quality of our lives. You can find Lisa at lisacampion.com.

Episode 8: The Power of Our Thoughts Feb 06, 2021

Maybe thoughts can become things, and are creative forces in our lives. Denise Correll from the Enlightened Empaths Podcast and I talk about how we can consciously choose our thoughts and possibly change our lives. It's worth considering! You can find Denise at thegratefulmessenger.com.

Episode 7: Exercise - Maybe It's Legit! Jan 30, 2021

While we know that regular exercise improves our physical fitness, it's also beneficial to maintaining our cognitive and brain health. Joey Wolfe, owner of Paradigm Sport in Santa Cruz, CA, and I talk about his own path and how movement can contribute to the mind and body connection. Check out Paradigmsport.com!

Episode 6: Messages from Spirit Jan 23, 2021

Spirit medium Jennifer Lyn and I discuss some of the most powerful messages she has received in her readings. Her unique abilities allow her to commune with the spirit world, and her work is thought-provoking. Is there a higher purpose for our existence? Could there be existence beyond death? What happened to our loved ones who have passed? And you can find Jennifer Lyn at Jenniferlynmedium.com.

Episode 5: One's Path of Healing Jan 16, 2021

Depression affects people of all ages, all races, and all socioeconomic ranges. But it can be a path for discovering one's higher purpose and reason for existing. Dr. Berry Amstrong and I reflect upon his own spiritual journey.

Episode 4: Covid! Jan 09, 2021

Infectious Disease specialist Dr. April Ferguson and I talk about Covid-19. We discuss her experiences with Covid in the hospital, from the beginning of the pandemic up to this point.

Episode 3: Overcoming Adverse Childhood Experiences Dec 23, 2020

Childhood trauma is known to lead to adult onset of chronic diseases, depression and other mental illness, violence and being a victim of violence, as well as other social problems. Coach Robert Foster and I discuss his own path and his work with youth sports.

Episode 2: The Path to Forgiveness Dec 21, 2020

Father Raniero, a monk at the New Camaldoli Hermitage, and I speak about forgiveness. Could forgiveness be the ultimate expression of love? Is it a path not only to address our past hurt, but also to show mercy in our own lives?

Episode 1: The Impact of Love Dec 20, 2020

I speak with Josie Teresi, an intuitive spiritual counselor, about the impact of love. Could the answer that we are all searching for, the cure to our problems, the reason for our existence, be one that is related to love? Join me today as we talk about the power of love. And you can find Josie at JosieTeresi.com.

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