A Quest for Well-Being

— It is believed that humans have been using psychedelic drugs since the dawn of civilization. In Western culture, however, only recently has science begun to understand how psychedelics may aid trauma healing. Whenever something terrible happens to you or you're in a harmful place for a long time, you are traumatized. Trauma can occur when you experience something terrible. In some cases, trauma develops when you are subjected to an extended period of harmful circumstances. It affects both the mind and body. Traditionally, mental health treatment has focused on talk therapy and medication, interventions that are often quite effective at relieving psychological distress. However, many mental health practitioners are now working with psychedelics and transforming their perspective on healing trauma. As a result, psychedelic treatment may provide a less painful means of accessing the interface between the unconscious and the body. Valeria interviews Megan Salar — She is the author of “EMDR For Dummies and The EMDR Workbook for Trauma and PTSD: Skills to Manage Triggers, Move Beyond Traumatic Memories, and Take Back Your Life. Megan Salar, MSW, ACADC, is an EMDR Clinician, Trainer and Author who earned her Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work from Northwest Nazarene University in 2011. She has extensively been trained on the use of EMDR and other trauma based interventions and specializes in the areas of trauma, abuse, attachment and substance abuse. Megan has trained thousands of clinicians across the U.S. as well as internationally to get the most out of EMDR, trauma and addiction-based skills and practices. Megan previously owned/operated an intensive outpatient treatment center that was voted best in practice in 2019. She currently owns and operates her own Coaching, Consulting, and Training Business and is passionate about genuinely changing the landscape of mental health and trauma treatment through an authentic hands-on perspective that is uniquely her own. Megan is the author of the EMDR Workbook for Trauma and PTSD: Skills to Manage Triggers, Move Beyond Traumatic Memories; and Take Back Your Life released by New Harbinger Publications in May of 2023 and EMDR for Dummies with Wiley Publishing set to release in June 2024. To learn more about Megan Salar and her work, please visit: https://thementalsurvivalist.com

— Have you ever noticed your conversations with your brain? We call it thinking. Thinking is like a private conversation we all have with our brains about what is happening in the world, what we hope will happen, what the challenges may be, and how we will try to make our lives as amazing as we can. Sometimes thinking makes things better. Sometimes thinking makes things hard. The more we know about the brain, the more we can work together with it to fill our lives with great adventures that are more interesting and fun—in school and life. Focusing on stories, how the brain makes up stories for us to live in, and how knowing this can help us build even better life stories for ourselves is important. What makes a great story? Are you ready to write your own? Valeria interviews Madelaine Claire Weiss — She is the bestselling author of “Getting to G.R.E.A.T.: A 5-Step Strategy For Work and Life; Based on Science and Stories and What’s Your Story?: Building Your Best Adventures in School and Life. Madelaine Claire Weiss, LICSW, MBA, BCC, is a Harvard-trained Licensed Psychotherapist, Mindset Expert, and Board-Certified Executive, Career, and Life Coach. She is the founder and former chair of the School-Business Partnership in Acton, Massachusetts, and served as a Parenting Education Facilitator for the Massachusetts court system. Madelaine is currently an outreach volunteer with the DC Tutoring and Mentoring Initiative (DCTMI). Her co-authorship includes a chapter in the Handbook of Stressful Transitions Across the Lifespan. Madelaine has been a mental health practice director, a corporate chief organizational development officer, and associate director of an educational resource program at Harvard Medical School. Madelaine’s work has been featured on NBC, W4WRadio, Fox 5 DC, and Talk4TV. She has written for Thrive Global and Authority Magazine’s Editor’s List; is an opinion columnist for CEOWorld Magazine, and presented for The American Bar Association, Harvard Law School, The International Association of Business Communicators, National Association of Realtors, DC Academy of General Dentistry, AARP, Wharton Innovation Summit, Bureau of National Affairs, and Women in Federal Law Enforcement. Madelaine lives in Washington, DC, and is the proud mother of two grown children and grandmother to five beloved grandchildren. To learn more about Madelaine Claire Weiss and her work, please visit: https://madelaineweiss.com

— There are lots of reasons to use CBD oil. From pain and inflammation relief to help with conditions like insomnia or ADHD, it’s one of the closest things we’ve found to a miracle drug. But it’s important to know how CBD oil works in order to buy the best quality. Basically, cannabidiol (CBD) binds with various receptors in your body to work its magic. For example, CBD has a strong affinity to fatty acid binding proteins (FABP) that are responsible for chaperoning lipids to the cell interior. This delays adenosine uptake in the cell which is responsible for inflammation. You don’t need to understand the science to get the takeaway: you’re putting something in your body that will affect your cells. Wouldn’t you only want the purest, highest-quality product if it’s basically becoming a part of you? Valeria interviews Dawn Norby — She is the Founder of Budding Botanicals. Dawn Norby’s son was diagnosed with idiopathic aplastic anemia in 2006. In 2011, he needed a bone marrow transplant. Make A Wish came to us and asked if they could grant him a wish before his transplant. He chose to go to Scotland and golf at St. Andrew’s Golf Course. Little did we know that this trip would be what got him through his pain of treatments before his transplant. It was then that Dawn decided to pay it forward and become a volunteer for Make A Wish. Before she could start her volunteering, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Going through the same types of treatments her son went through, she knew her mission was to find a way to help volunteer for others. Well, she was finally able to make that wish come true. Her first Wish kiddo was dealing with Leukemia and was in much pain from the side effects of chemotherapy. Being able to relate to his pain, his mother asked if I could make something to help his son alleviate his pain. After speaking with his doctors, they recommended what ever I did make, be all-natural. Off to study for Dawn. She finally decided Hemp isolate would be best as it is all-natural and THC free! She made a salve and took it to him. After using it just once, he was able to play with his brother for the first time is months! It was then that she knew she wanted to help people in pain find an all-natural pain relief that would help them also find relief. A business was started! Eleven years later and they still make everything in small batches with all-natural ingredients. To learn more about Dawn Norby and her work, please visit: https://www.buddingbotanicalsca.com/

— Deep breathing has been proven to be an effective tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Breathwork (or the practice of conscious controlled breathing) can reduce oxidative stress by increasing oxygen intake and decreasing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. This promotes balance and helps to protect our bodies from inflammation and cell damage associated with free radical production. It can also help with insomnia and sleep disruption by calming the central nervous system (CNS). When our CNS is in a relaxed state, melatonin production increases, which helps us get better quality sleep. Studies have also shown that deep breathing can help reduce blood pressure and increase circulation, both of which are important for overall health. And finally, regular breathwork can help develop greater awareness of self and allow us to better manage our daily stressors and lifestyle choices. Breathwork can also help us heal past trauma, and release challenging emotions, that may be causing unhealthy lifestyle choices that contribute to oxidative stress. Valeria interviews Samantha Skelly — She is the author of “Hungry for Happiness: Stop Emotional Eating & Start Loving Yourself.” Samantha Skelly is the founder and CEO of the multi-million dollar Breathwork and Wellness company, Pause Breathwork. She’s a highly sought-after international speaker, best-selling author, and coaching expert with a heart-centered approach to life and business. A leading authority on trauma healing and stress release, Samantha has made it her life’s mission to rid the world of anxiety so people can thrive using the power of their breath. Through Pause’s signature trauma-informed somatic coaching program, breathwork facilitator training, and live events, she provides uniquely accessible somatic and emotional healing resources while also equipping clients with the tools and strategies to create and scale their own 6-figure wellness businesses. She has trained and certified thousands of facilitators in over 27 countries in the power of breathwork, and thousands more are using the Pause Breathwork Mobile App worldwide. With the mission of helping 1 Million people by 2030, Samantha started examining the underlying causes of anxiety, trauma, and stress in 2014 with her first Hay House best-selling book. Eventually growing the movement into the comprehensive wellness brand that Pause is today, supporting over 10,000 clients in 30+ countries worldwide. Her sustainable healing solutions have revolutionized the self-help industry, challenging the old “Band-Aids on bullet wounds” approach that kept people trapped in the yo-yo effect. Samantha is also the Host of the Can't Be Contained, a top-rated podcast which has had millions of downloads over the last 5 years. To learn more about Samantha Skelly and her work, please visit: https://www.pausebreathwork.com/ and https://www.samanthaskelly.com/

— "If you have always envisioned your ideal, successful life - but now find yourself exhausted by the daily struggle to maintain it, this episode is for you. You've accomplished so much by other people's standards. Yet, that success has come at a cost, leaving you craving more time, freedom, and enjoyment. You don't want to sacrifice your income, security, or lifestyle. But deep down, you're kind of over it all. What would your dream life really look like? And what's stopping you from creating it?" Valeria interviews Marni Battista — She is the author of “Your Radical Living Challenge: 7 Questions for Leading a Meaningful Life.” Marni Battista is an entrepreneur, author, transformational coach, podcast host and radical truth seeker. Her straight-to -the- point podcast and page turning books drop beautiful pearls of wisdom that not only will make you laugh, but also provide life-changing stories of triumph and courage to stop letting life live you, and to start LIVING a life that’s beyond your wildest dreams. Battista’s essays have appeared in the LA Times, The Jerusalem Post, Happiful Magazine, Huffington Post and more. She has also appeared on the Dr. Phil Show, On Air with Ryan Seacrest, Home and Family TV and Loveline with Dr. Drew. Battista is currently living with her husband and two cats, Simon and Fergus Katz, in different destinations around the world as they continue their Radical Living Challenge which is the topic of her book which will be published by Hay House in January, 2025. To learn more about Marni Battista and her work, please visit: https://instituteforlivingcourageously.com/, https://marnibattista.com/ and Decode Your Destiny Test

— To all men who resonate with the Father Wound, remember that you are enough, and you are not responsible for your father’s behavior or choices. Acknowledging the impact of the Father Wound is the first step toward healing. It’s important to confront your experiences and actively pursue growth and change. Seek out coaching, engage in self-reflection, and build supportive relationships with others who understand your journey. Embrace the healing process as a vital journey toward emotional freedom and well- being. Each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to a healthier future. You have the strength within you to overcome these challenges and cultivate the life and relationships you deserve. Valeria interviews Adam Majrouh — He is a dedicated Father Wound Coach who is passionate about helping men heal their Father Wound and achieve personal transformation. As a father, grandfather, and father-in-law, he brings a wealth of experience to his coaching practice. With over 30 years of coaching and mentoring experience, including 16 years specifically focused on Father Wound Coaching, he offers a unique perspective, having personally experienced and healed from his own Father Wound. His firsthand experience allows him to provide personalized guidance and support, helping clients find peace, unlock their purpose, transform their finances, and attract meaningful relationships. Through one-to-one coaching sessions, Adam creates a safe and non-judgmental space for growth, exploration, and change. Adam equips his clients with practical tools and strategies to navigate their healing journey, empowering them to take control of their lives. His coaching has a profound impact on clients' relationships, careers, and overall well-being, enabling them to discover a sense of peace and fulfillment. Driven by his personal journey of overcoming obstacles and achieving success, Adam has dedicated himself to studying a diverse array of modalities and techniques related to personal growth, including Transactional Analysis, Gestalt, NLP, and Applied Psychology. He also has a deep interest in spirituality, which plays a significant role in shaping his coaching approach. In 2014, Adam earned three coaching certifications—Practitioner of Excellence, Strategic Intervention Coach, and Marriage Education Coach—through the esteemed Tony Robbins and Cloe Madanes Centre for Strategic Intervention’s Coach Training Programmes. His life has transformed remarkably through his roles as a father, grandfather, and father-in-law, igniting a commitment to assist other men who may be experiencing similar pain. This purpose led him to specialize in Father Wound Coaching, providing support to men seeking healing and inner peace. For those ready to tap into his expertise, Adam invites you to book a FREE Discovery Session now! He looks forward to connecting with you! To learn more about Adam Majrouh and his work, please visit: https://adammajrouh.com/

— Experience the power of the Presensing peace method. Among other tools, Kathleen offers neuroplasticity meditation to rewire your mind and transform your emotional state. She guides you through various step-by-step process to cultivate feelings like peace, calm, or gratitude. Learn how to use intention and awareness to change habits and behaviors, creating lasting positive change. It’s time to connect with your inner self and embrace the emotional state you wish to embody! Valeria interviews Kathleen Reily — She is the founder of the Presensing peace method and is a Neuroplasticity and Meditation expert for men dealing with the chronic stress cycle. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the body and brain’s capacity to change and adapt, Kathleen has dedicated her career to developing a method that rewires the habit of stress into peace. Through her unique approach, she combines the principles of Positive Neuroplasticity, Energy Psychology, heart-mind coherence, and other techniques to repair the body and create lasting emotional well-being, vitality, and peace. Kathleen’s expertise lies in harnessing the body-brain’s inherent ability to rewire itself at any age, known as Neuroplasticity. Through science-backed interventions and compassionate guidance, she empowers men to elevate their peace and contentment, improve longevity, vitality, and build the mind, body, and spirit necessary to lead fulfilling lives. To learn more about Kathleen Reily and her work, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@Presensing and https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-reily/

— There are times in everyone's life that stress, worry, and wanting answers but not knowing where or how to find them can become overwhelming. People are trying to find themselves, make better choices and expand their future possibilities. The struggle of living in this time of intensity and transition is why people seek the truth that SoulUnion offers. As a Medical Intuitive, Darlene Van de Grift guides people to discover blockages, clear them, and develop steps with tools towards a more rewarding life. SoulUnion cares for the mind, body, and spirit in a co-creative discovery in finding the root cause, the factors involved and the direction forward in any given question or concern that may be causing stress. Weaving new insights or understanding about health, relationships, career, or spirituality can shift one's consciousness, expand thought processes, change behaviors, motivate new choices, and can impact your DNA. You are not stuck, wrong, or incapable, you may only be a little lost. Find out the truth of who you are and take the steps toward clarity, order and direction to become more than you know. Valeria interviews Darlene Van de Grift — She is the author of “EarthBound: the Genesis of the Great Experiment.” Darlene Van de Grift is a highly respected Medical Intuitive and Multidimensional Mediator, Timeline Architect, Medium, Artist, and Author, with over 35 years of experience. She dedicated her career to helping people tap into their innate wisdom and spiritual guidance to explore and heal their multidimensional selves. Darlene's thirst for knowledge has shaped her educational background across different subjects, including Applied Kinesiology, One Brain, Swedish and therapeutic massage, anatomy and physiology, Matrix Energetics, Touch For Health, Intention Muscle Balancing, Nutritional Counseling, Reconnection work, herbal and homeopathic medicine, and the Energy Arts. Darlene also channels the Evolves, through a distinctive, interactive monthly Zoom called the Cosmic Travelers. Within the Sacred White space of neutrality, healing takes place on both a personal and worldwide scale. Her podcast, Expansion from Within; Exploring Multidimensionality, and her website, Soulunion.com, are notable platforms. Her debut book, EarthBound; the Genesis of the Great Experiment, delves into her long-life adventures with multidimensional beings, ancient timelines, and the evolution of Earth and humanity, and offers spiritual teachings and tools for her readers. This book is a five-part series titled Multidimensional Chronicles, the first book set to be released by Pegasus Publishing in 2025. Darlene assures us that, "You know more than you know." To learn more about Darlene Van de Grift and her work, please visit: https://www.soulunion.com

— “I’m curious about the psychological footprints we leave behind us wherever we go. How we are with ourselves and others is exactly how the world will be. And that matters.” Valeria interviews Lynda Hoffman — She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). She coaches ambitious business professionals - with or without ADHD - who want to create meaningful personal and organizational change. Lynda partners with clients to increase their personal agency and strategic decision making. Her extensive experience in the fields of executive functioning and mindfulness training supports clients in understanding how their brain functioning informs their behavior - and how to create sustainable change. Lynda is trained in Harvard’s Immunity to Change model and body mind modalities. She encourages her clients to do the deeper work towards transformation and a more liberated way of being. To learn more about Lynda Hoffman and her work, please visit: https://lyndahoffman.com/

— You are whole and ready to go. You do not need fixing because you are not broken. Celebrate that! You are right on track to show up for the life you want. Sure, we live in a culture that talks, writes, and sings about brokenness. It has become the social-media way to relate with others. Do you have messiness to deal with? Everyone does. Is your life complex? Probably. Have you been broken-hearted at times? Certainly. Are you broken? No! You're incredibly blessed—and your wholeness is a gift to celebrate! That wholeness is propelling you to lean forward and live your life all in. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "I am who I am today because of the choices I made yesterday." That's life-changing truth delivered in just thirteen words! You've made the choice to show up for the life you want, to believe in your future and the beauty of your dreams. And that choice—that brave, beautiful, effervescent choice—will make a world of difference in your life and the lives of those around you. Valeria interviews Chris Janssen MA, BCC — She is the author of Living All In: How to Show Up for the Life You Want and Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want Chris is also a leading results coach in performance and mindset, bestselling, award-winning author, and inspiring speaker. She has worked with hundreds of sought-after professional athletes, singers, dancers, Hollywood writers, artists, authors, military soldiers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses internationally to close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. In addition to her academic degrees, Chris was trained by and worked with Tony Robbins on his team of results coaches, the #1 personal development and peak performance strategy company in the world. With a master’s in counseling psychology and 25+ years’ experience, Chris is widely regarded by entrepreneurs and creatives. Her insights have been featured in international magazines and podcasts like Brainz Magazine and Simply Fit Podcast. As a board-certified coach, Chris specializes in equipping clients with tools to substitute limiting beliefs and unhelpful narratives with certainty through utilizing her successful and sustainable Living All In methods. Her honest, strategic style will help you lead with purpose, love your plan, and perform from a peak state. Chris' books, Living All In: How to Show Up for the Life You Want (available now on Amazon) — asks the question, "What do you want?" Knowing the answer to that question and acting on it will change your life. Chris’ seconds book and Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want (available in March of 2025 where books are sold) is a self-help book focused on addiction and grace. A California native, Chris lives with her husband since 1995, Scott. They are currently Caliradoans, splitting time between Los Angeles and Castle Pines, Colorado, where they love to ski, golf, be with their horses, and adventure outside. Together they raised three children, now thriving young adults. To learn more about Chris Janssen and her work, please visit: https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/

— On a cold and cozy December night in 2018, Jim Kaveney thinks he is dying. He is a husband, a father, a business owner, an athlete, and innovator. He is also an Afib patient facing massive cardiac trauma. In his memoir, Unlimited Heart: How To Transform Your Pain Into Purpose, Jim Kaveney recounts his dance with death and the events of his life leading up to this fateful, health-defining moment and the shifts in business perspective and priorities that followed. Unlimited Heart takes readers on a three-part, forty-year journey. It traverses the tight budgets of an eleven-member household to the financial burdens strapped to a dream to the sale of a multi-million-dollar startup. It is a raw portrayal of a boy who grapples with his own demons in the midst of his dreams and a man who turns those dreams into a clear, entrepreneurial vision—a vision that is threatened by medicine, technology, and surgeries. Kaveney’s entrepreneurial and cardiac journey cannot be separated. Where his heart was weak, his mind became strong. When his mind was weak, his heart was strong. His battle between his metaphorical and physical heart and mind is what inspired him to write Unlimited Heart and to launch a business with the namesake. Turning his pain in life to a greater purpose, Unlimited Heart helps people with cardiac issues be different and better patients. Valeria interviews Jim Kaveney — He is the author of “Unlimited Heart: How To Transform Your Pain Into Purpose.” Jim Kaveney is all heart. In 2012 Jim founded Alkemy Partners (a Life Sciences Learning and Performance company that was ranked by Inc5000 in 2019 and 2020 before achieving acquisition in 2020 by EVERSANA™) and he is currently the founder of Unlimited Heart Health & Wellness —a collaborative organization of health care professionals accelerating cardiac innovation. After years of balancing entrepreneurial ambitions with his own growing cardiac issues, Jim Kaveney, M.S. has turned his pain into a purpose to become an expert in navigating the burgeoning worlds of digital therapeutics, global startup initiatives, and the mindset training required to tackle the pillars of a holistic work-health-faith-family-life balance. Growing up as the youngest of nine in Erie, Pennsylvania, he sought understanding and solace in forces greater than himself, a quest that has influenced his personal and professional journey. Through his story, he hopes to empower others to find strength and resilience in the face of health challenges, while continuing to innovate and advocate for better patient care solutions. To learn more about Jim Kaveney and his work, please visit: https://unlimitedheartbook.com/ and connect with him on https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameskaveney/

—" I want to pause and acknowledge the absolute heartbreak women experience when they go in for fertility evaluations and receive the news, they will not be able to get pregnant. I have an immense amount of compassion for you. I want to encourage you that we serve a God who can make the impossible happen. He sees you in your suffering and pain and knows your heart’s desires to be a mother. He wants to make that dream come true for you. Even though it may seem impossible or look different than you’ve imagined, He can deliver you in the way you need.” Valeria interviews Devan Larsen — She is the author of “Fulfilled: A Therapist's Journey of Faith through Fertility.” Devan Larsen, LMFT, CGT is a marriage and trauma therapist, follower of Jesus, and author. Devan's passion has always been working with wounded hearts, helping those in broken and what seem like hopeless situations find light and meaning for their lives. She owns a private practice called Moments of Grace Family Therapy and specializes in working with couples, adolescents, and adults who want to find freedom from trauma they've experienced. Devan holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley and a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University. She is a Certified Gottman Therapist and a local Moms in the Making leader. Devan lives on a small farm in Central Oregon with her husband, two Golden Retrievers, barn cat, and chickens. She continues to wait on the Lord to build her family and believes that every woman can find fulfillment in their season of waiting. In her down time, Devan enjoys watching the sunrise, sitting on her patio with a good book, traveling, or enjoying a sweet treat. To learn more about Devan Larsen and her work, please visit: https://www.momentsofgraceft.com/

Narcissistic abuse is a destructive form of abuse that impacts interpersonal growth and leaves its victims shells of their former self. It stems from beliefs we have about the self – typically learned as children, our feelings of worthiness of love, and an altered reality that becomes commonplace for emotional or physical survival. It is, however, possible to heal from a relationship with a narcissist. Some of the strongest people I know are survivors. Healthy love and connection are calm, safe, and don’t require self-compromise to be worthy of it; it is given freely and without judgment. Valeria interviews Dawn Leedie — She is licensed clinical professional counselor practicing in Normal, Illinois. She is the owner of Leedie Counseling Services, a private practice where she offers individual and family therapy as well as consultation. Dawn Leedie was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She is passionate about helping others realize their highest potential and has extensive knowledge and experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Dawn empowers her clients, through a mix of education, guided explorations exercises, and humor, to break free from negative patterns and beliefs which prevent them from being their best self. She attended Arizona State University where she received a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education. After briefly teaching high school English, she knew the best part of the job was getting to help and inspire young minds. She left teaching and returned to Arizona State University where she received her Master of Counseling degree. Over the past 22 years, Dawn worked in a variety of clinical settings including intensive outpatient substance abuse programs for adults and adolescents, psychiatric hospitalization for adolescents, community health clinics, schools, domestic violence shelters, and outpatient counseling. She also frequently serves as a consultant for the family court system, advocating for the voice of children. When Dawn is not working with clients, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending concerts, traveling, cooking, and is an avid writer. To learn more about Dawn Leedie and her work, please visit: https://www.dawnleedie.com/

— Ayurveda may be the world's oldest continuously practiced health system, dating up to five thousand years ago Ayurveda can be loosely translated as the “science of life.” The word comes from combining "Ayur," meaning life, and "Veda,” meaning knowledge. So Ayurveda literally means "the knowledge of life" — how to live in the best possible way. Ayurveda is a very basic, simple, natural approach to living. It is a beautiful combination of oral and written instruction, spirituality, philosophy, mythology, AND SCIENTIFIC knowledge that has been around for over 5000 years. It is rooted in the oldest spiritual texts of India called the Vedas. These texts (some of which date back to 450-1500 BCE.) are widely considered to be the most ancient science and address ALL aspects of healing and well-being for both body and mind. Ayurveda, even though it originated in India, gained traction and prestige in Sri Lanka, China, Tibet, and Nepal, influencing these various philosophies and healing traditions. There was a point when Western medicine denounced Ayurveda as inferior when India was colonized. However, it continued to be practiced under the radar of colonists in rural areas and monasteries. Ayurveda is making a huge comeback in India, North America, and other Western countries. We are now looking to combine the science and technology of traditional Western medicine with Ayurveda's holistic, preventative healing art. With the emphasis on prevention and empowering people to have more control over their health via the choices they make in their everyday lives, Ayurveda has become a holistic wellness system that is infiltrating the mainstream, unbeknownst to many. For instance, Kaizer Permanente is displaying billboards around LA referencing circadian rhythms - how crazy fantastic is that? Costco did a 2-page layout last summer on Ayurveda and holistic health. And yes.....they called it by its real name! Ayurveda and Self-Care go hand and hand! Valeria interviews Paula Pister — She is an Ayurvedic Health and Life Coach, Yoga teacher, and busy mom. Her journey began as a young model and actress, where she struggled with self-worth and body image issues. In her 20s, becoming a certified yoga teacher helped Paula appreciate and love her body more, leading her to explore Ayurveda, yoga's sister science. Now, Paula teaches midlife women simple daily and seasonal self-care tools rooted in ancient wisdom and modern habit change science. She is a strong advocate for self-care, aiming to help women overcome the belief that prioritizing themselves is selfish or to feel “guilty about." In Ayurveda, our energy reserves are called “Ojas." Paula emphasizes that without replenishment, this energy depletes, leaving women vulnerable to mental, emotional, and physical imbalances. Having experienced burnout herself, she understands the challenges faced by busy women juggling multiple responsibilities. Growing up in a generation where real self-care wasn’t always modeled well, Paula learned its importance later in life. Now in her 50s, she is committed to being an exemplary model for her children and helping other midlife women reshape outdated beliefs about self-care, listening to their intuition, and reclaiming control of habits that are life-depleting not life-enhancing. Because self-care does NOT come in a one-size-fits-all box, a bottle, or from Amazon. It takes committing to yourself and deeper desires, being gentle and kind to yourself, and understanding that this is a journey. Every step along the path is an opportunity for growth, deeper insight, and a chance to connect with your inner wisdom (which is ALWAYS guiding you.) Paula stresses that self-care starts with self-worth, setting boundaries, and learning to say “No” (nicely and guilt-free). She believes this approach is not selfish but essential, as a healthy, vibrant, and happy individual better equipped to care for others and show up in the world as your best...

— Susan Keller wrote Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip to help readers find peace with reduced alcohol consumption. And, to show them how they can moderate, or even eliminate, cravings for alcohol. Reduced cravings lead to a lot less drinking and improved health for our minds and bodies. “Mostly Sober” takes place in 1983. This was a time when there was little help available to the person who wanted to change their drinking. It was AA or not much else. But not all of us who drink are candidates for AA. We can learn to drink moderately or minimally. Today, there is a lot of help to do that. Susan’s intention is that readers find common ground with her protagonist and her journey to accept herself, resolve her own misplaced guilt, and understand that the trauma she experienced as a child was not her fault. Valeria interviews Susan Keller — She is the author of “Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip” and “Blood Brother: A Memoir.” After earning a degree in Public Health and Immunology, Susan enjoyed a 30-year career as an award-winning medical writer. Additionally, her poetry won prizes in regional and national contests. This background in science and poetry gives her writing credibility as well as lyricism. Susan’s experience overcoming a rare and frequently fatal lymphoma inspired her to write Blood Brother: A Memoir. The subhead: Johnny’s bone marrow could save my life, but he’d vanished 30 years ago. Her second book Mostly Sober: A Love Story and a Road Trip, is a genre-blend of romance and self-help. It is a deeply human narrative centered around the sober-curious movement and will help and resonate with the millions of Americans determined to moderate or minimize alcohol consumption. Susan lives in the Bay Area with her husband, Daniel. She and Daniel have both reduced their alcohol consumption from 60 drinks a month to 6 or 8. Her mission is to help all of her readers find peace and improved physical and mental health with reduced alcohol consumption. To learn more about Susan Keller and her work, please visit: https://susankeller.com/

— As a therapist, Colleen Grenz helps people gain insight about themselves, while learning new tools to improve and heal their symptoms. She also practices what she preaches to her clients and inspires other mental health practitioners to understand the importance of living the values and doing the work they ask of their clients. This applies to every area of life. Colleen’s clients' struggles are a constant reminder of areas she too need to practice skills like calm parenting and discipline, mindful awareness, radical self and body acceptance, doing the hard work: exercise, eating well, and using assertive communication. Colleen often challenge her client's thinking and beliefs and have been practicing challenging her own limited thinking and beliefs, which helps her understand how hard what she is asking of them really is. Valeria interviews Colleen Grenz — She is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Jamestown, North Dakota. She is originally from Portland, Oregon and ended up in North Dakota after a multi-state and overseas journey that also saw her evolve from a career as a Botanist to her present career as a therapist. She graduated from the University of Jamestown in 2019 with a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling. She counseled clients at James River Correctional Center, South Central Human Service Center's crisis team, and Prairie Recovery Center before fulfilling a lifelong dream of opening a private practice in 2021. Her modality is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, while integrating a trauma lens, mindfulness, and existential/spiritual concepts. She is passionate about creating a safe space for clients who may feel on the margins of society. She loves time with her family and friends, cats, nature, reading and jogging slowly for a long time. To learn more about Colleen Grenz and her work, please visit: https://grenzcounseling.clientsecure.me/

— In holistic care, a person' physical, emotional, social, economic, and spiritual needs are considered, as well as their response to an illness and the effects of illness on their ability to care for themselves. There a variety of long-term services and supports, as well as natural supports to cope with their emotional, social and other needs. Thus, they require a coordinated and integrated approach in order to improve the outcomes. A holistic approach to healing can maximize a person’s quality of life as a main outcome. Valeria interviews Amber McKinney-Morgan practices clinical social work in California with experience in individual and couples therapy. Amber is certified in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Gottman Couples Therapy. In addition, Amber is an EMDRIA-approved Consultant-in-Training (CIT) providing consultation to other EMDR clinicians looking to be certified. She’s penned articles for EMDRIA’s Go With That Magazine on incorporating EMDR, IFS and SE when working with clients and has spoken on the popular television show, Fatal Attraction, which is anticipated to be available for audience consumption in Fall of 2024. Amber has received training in various interventions and therapeutic modalities through their respective institutes and includes but is not limited to: The Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sex Therapy, Hypnosis, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and more. Amber’s passion for the behavioral health field got put into play over 10 years ago, as a “child counselor” at residential group homes. Since then, she’s amassed experience working with individuals ages 4 and up coping with a range of life circumstances including trauma, homelessness and more. If you find yourself reading this and have more questions about how therapy can support you in your life, please feel free to reach out and schedule a free 15-minute consultation. Amber appreciates you taking the time to explore your needs thus far to access the care you deserve. To learn more about Amber McKinney-Morgan and her work, please visit: https://www.ambermckinney.com

— Be prepared for an amazing health transformation! Through Valentina’s breakthrough programs, you can resolve lingering issues, while you can achieve optimal wellness through my personalized, integrative approach. By eliminating underlying imbalances, you'll feel healthy, energized, balanced, and mentally clear in no time. It is all about identifying the causes, map out a plan, and create positive change. Besides innovative modalities for releasing stuck emotions, the system offers fascinating insights into your DNA and nutrition, as well as customized lifestyle upgrades. The DNA Blueprint or digital transformational guides will deliver results, whether you dive right in or start from scratch. Valentina’s uses a comprehensive, science-based approach to identify the source of health imbalances so you can optimize your unique blueprint. You'll feel rejuvenated, vital, and a sense of wellbeing when you take advantage of this treatment. This is the beginning of the journey. It's time to uncover the root causes of your pain, heal them holistically, and transform your health in ways that will make you excited about life again! Valeria interviews Valentina Bain — She is a Certified Somatic Practitioner, Geonomics (Epigenetics) Coach, Holistic Nutrition Coach, EFT Master Practitioner, CranioSacral Therapist, Reiki Master, Neuromuscular Therapist, Sports Therapist, Labor Doula, and NLP mindset coach. With over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur in the wellness industry and natural-minded mom to 4, Valentina has trained extensively to help clients get to the root of chronic issues. As a somatic therapist and epigenetic coach, Valentina shares the ultimate secret to elevating holistic healing, vitality, prevention, and longevity - your unique DNA blueprint and custom protocols. She provides breakthrough blueprints using DNA, HTMA, and other functional tests to help you unlock wellness on a whole new level. Valentina explains how genetic variation informs the customized diet, lifestyle, and solutions that will lead each individual to their best self. By understanding how your body handles chemical processes, you can go right to the root of health issues. She partners with clients as a trained practitioner to determine which insights are most relevant today, since gene expression evolves over time. To learn more about how you can connect the dots to feel your healthiest, happiest self with a lifetime blueprint for optimization, please visit: https://valentinabain.com/ Check our The DNA Blueprint Package here: https://valentinabain.thrivecart.com/breakthrough-blueprint/

— Train your body to become stronger, healthier, and leaner! The importance of strength training in an overall fitness program cannot be overstated. This episode explores the benefits of strength training and how to begin. Is it your goal to lose body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more effectively? It's time for strength training! Strength training contributes significantly to a person's overall health and fitness. According to a new study, women who do strength training exercises two or three times a week are likely to live longer and are less likely to die from heart disease. A strong body is also a healthy body, including bones, joints, a healthy mood, and a healthy metabolism. Moreover, at a time when many women ignore weight training in favor of aerobic activity, these findings support the notion that both types of exercise can be beneficial. The findings are part of a larger study, published in The Journal of the American College of Cardiology, which evaluated the differences in the effects of exercise between men and women. Valeria interviews Angela Beyer — She is a renowned coach and health expert. Angela isn't just about aesthetics; she empowers women to build muscle, cultivate healthy habits, and achieve lasting well-being. Sculpting bodies and shaping lives. From overcoming personal challenges to bodybuilding triumph and celebrity training, Angela's journey fuels her passion for guiding others towards physical and mental empowerment. Miss Universe titleholder, author, and media mentioned (All Star Magazine Germany, Flex Magazine), podcast guest on award winning podcasts. Angela's proven methods and inspiring success stories make her a sought-after expert in the transformation arena. To learn more about Angela Beyer and her work, please visit: https://houseofshape.com and Instagram: @healthcoachangela

— When you are afraid of death, you can lose sight of what is important in life and live a less fulfilling existence. Through Karmic Astrology & Past Life Regression, you can stop focusing on death and focus on transforming your experience of self and reality by honoring your spiritual journey. As a result of this transformative awareness, you are able to see how your soul or consciousness may have been transferred from one body to another. Although the answers you receive from a session may be reassuring, it helps if you believe that death has a spiritual element, but even if you have no idea what happens after you die, you may be pleasantly surprised! Valeria interviews Maggie Donovan — She is a certified Clinical and Transpersonal Hypnotherapist. She received 500 hours of training from the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy. A state-licensed school with the highest ethical standards, and in compliance with federal and state education standards. Maggie also possesses additional learning credits from the Past Life Awakening Institute and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of New Orleans. After rounding out a chapter as an educator of history, she was guided back to her calling as a hypnotherapist to aid in cultivating a healthier attitude toward one's spiritual journey and becoming acquainted with their soul's true nature. Maggie’s mission is to facilitate a personal discovery of each individual's spiritual journey. These private revelations bring people closer to the higher power within themselves and bring clarity to their unique life's purpose. Maggie strives to combat the fear of death, by offering insight into the nature of each soul and its spiritual home. Through carefully crafted sessions, using karmic astrology, past life regression, and traditional hypnotherapy methods, she works meticulously to ensure that each of her clients leaves with a better understanding of themselves and their spiritual journey. To learn more about Maggie Donovan and her work, please visit: https://www.thehypnoticniche.com/