Next Steps Forward with Dr. Chris Meek

In this installment of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with former Division I hockey champion Grace Shirley, who is twice a national title winner with the Wisconsin Badgers (2021 & 2023), to explore her journey beyond the rink. Grace shares how the thrill of victory and the pressures of elite sport shaped her path, how she discovered the importance of mental-wellness through her own experience, and why she's now focused on becoming a counselor and advocate for student-athlete mental health. They'll talk about: the moment she realized that being "just a hockey player" wasn't enough; the transformative role of sports psychology and seeking support early; balancing academic, athletic, and personal identity; and her vision for what the next chapter looks like: helping others ask for help, redefine success, and embrace the person behind the athlete. Whether you're a student-athlete, coach, parent or anyone trying to navigate high expectations and identity beyond a role, this episode offers candid insight, practical encouragement, and a reminder that your next step is as meaningful as your first win. About Grace Shirley: Grace Shirley is a Canadian-born former collegiate ice hockey player turned mental-health advocate and counselor. Originally from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, she played four seasons with the Wisconsin Badgers women's ice hockey program, helping the team capture NCAA national championships in 2021 and 2023, both alongside her older sister Sophie. During her tenure at Wisconsin, Shirley earned Academic All-Big Ten honors three times, and also received Academic All-WCHA recognition. Despite her athletic and academic success, she candidly reflects on the internal pressures she faced as a student-athlete: "There was a lot of just pressure that I was putting on myself," she said, describing the toll that self-doubt took on her well-being. In 2023–24, Shirley transferred to Providence College as a graduate student, where she played one season for the Friars and concurrently pursued a master's degree in counseling with the goal of becoming a licensed mental-health counselor. Her experience seeking support, working with a sports psychologist at Wisconsin and finding broader value in those resources beyond the rink, sparked a commitment to helping other student-athletes navigate the intersection of performance and mental-wellness.After graduating with her master's degree, she is poised to step into a career that bridges her athletic background and her passion for mental-health advocacy, striving to be the kind of mentor she once needed.

In this installment of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Rob "Sleepwalker" Weisberg, a 9/11 firefighter who turned personal tragedy and decades of silent suffering into a path of healing. After grappling with PTSD and survivor's guilt for over 20 years, Rob found unexpected hope and renewal on the Appalachian Trail. His memoir, From the Grey Tunnel to the Green Tunnel, chronicles a raw, courageous journey from darkness to light, offering inspiration to anyone facing their own battles. Rob Weisberg: Rob Weisberg's memoir From the Grey Tunnel to the Green Tunnel: A 9/11 Firefighter's Journey from Despair to Hope takes readers from the harrowing chaos of September 11, 2001, to the healing solace of the Appalachian Trail. As a firefighter who served during the tragic attacks, Rob confronts the aftermath of that fateful day, grappling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its ripple effects on his life and relationships. Through raw storytelling, he recounts his struggles, the guilt he carried, and his path to understanding and self forgiveness. In a journey marked by resilience and reflection, Rob Weisberg finds a path forward through unexpected companions - horses, service dogs, and the unique culture of Appalachian Trail hikers. Each step on the trail becomes a step away from despair and toward hope, showing how the simple act of walking can lead to transformation. His book From the Grey Tunnel to the Green Tunnel is a deeply moving tale of survival, connection and strength to rebuild after life's darkest moments.

In this episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Ilya Bratman, Executive Director of Hillel at Baruch College and a U.S. Army veteran, to explore his inspiring journey from immigrant to educator and advocate. Ilya shares how his experiences, from serving overseas to building inclusive Jewish communities on campus, have shaped his mission to support the next generation of student leaders. With a focus on resilience, diversity, and purpose-driven leadership, this conversation dives into the challenges and rewards of guiding young adults through complex times. About Ilya Bratman: llya Bratman has held the position of the Executive Director at the Hillel at Baruch College since November 2013. In 1992, Ilya immigrated from Moscow, Russia to the US. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1999. Upon his graduation, Mr. Bratman enlisted in the United States Armed Forces. He served honorably for over four active years and four reserves, including deployments to Korea, Germany and Iraq. After returning from his tour in Iraq in 2004, Ilya Bratman received a Master’s Degree in Applied Linguistics and Education from the University of Pittsburgh in 2006. In 2006 Ilya ‘immigrated’ to New York. He worked as a Real Estate agent and in 2008, he began to work in the Jewish community including as an instructor at the Sinai Academy in Brooklyn, Director of Jewish Programs at the Kings Bay Y in Brooklyn, and as the Project Manager of Limmud FSU USA, before becoming the Executive Director at the Hillel at Baruch College. In his spare time, Ilya enjoys long-distance running, playing soccer and other sports, writing, playing guitar and watching the Steelers. Ilya speaks Russian fluently and is proficient in Hebrew and German. Ilya lives with his wife, Sonya, son, Gabriel and daughters, Miriam and Sima, in New Jersey.

In this powerful and emotionally resonant episode of Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes renowned mediator and attorney Kenneth R. Feinberg, one of the foremost experts in administering compensation funds in the aftermath of national tragedies. Feinberg will take the audience through the heart-wrenching and historic journey of valuing human life when presented with the unthinkable. In particular, he will discuss the story behind his appointment as Special Master of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, where he worked pro bono for 33 arduous months, personally awarding over $7 billion to victims and families, and conducting nearly 1,000 individual hearings amid profound grief and emotional intensity. He will also reflect on the uniquely bipartisan support the 9/11 compensation program received, his firm belief that it shouldn’t be replicated, and the program’s rarity as an apolitical, national response during a time of crisis. Throughout the hour he will explore topics of leadership, responsibility, empathy and how law - or any profession in the public sphere - can become a vehicle for healing and service. Mr. Feinberg exemplifies how deeply personal experiences of loss can shape programs designed to restore dignity and stability. His journey reveals how public policy leaders must balance objective frameworks with emotional intelligence and unwavering moral clarity. Join them for a conversation that transcends compensation formulas: this is about healing, restoring trust, and discovering what it truly means to do the right thing in times of profound tragedy. About Kenneth R. Feinberg: Kenneth R. Feinberg has been key to resolving many of our nation’s most challenging and widely known disputes. He is best known for serving as the Special Master of the Federal September 11th Victim Compensation Fund of 2001, in which he reached out to all who qualified to file a claim, evaluated applications, determined appropriate compensation, and disseminated awards. Mr. Feinberg shared his extraordinary experience in his book What Is Life Worth?, published in 2005 by Public Affairs Press, and in his follow-up book Who Gets What, published by Public Affairs Press in 2012. Mr. Feinberg has been appointed to two presidential-level commissions because of his experience and expertise, and has had a distinguished teaching career as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Harvard Law School, Georgetown University Law Center, the University of Pennsylvania Law School, Columbia University Law School, New York University Law School, and the University of Virginia Law School.

On this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General James Lukeman, the current CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation. With a distinguished 40-year military career that included deployments to the Persian Gulf, Germany, and Okinawa, as well as leadership roles ranging from Commanding General of the Second Marine Division to Deputy Director for Strategy and Plans at U.S. Africa Command, General Lukeman brings unparalleled insight into service, leadership, and resilience. In their conversation, General Lukeman reflects on what inspired him to join the Marines, the challenges and triumphs of his decades in uniform, and the lessons in resilience and leadership that remain at the heart of Marine Corps culture. He also shares his candid perspective on the ups and downs of military life, including how early setbacks shaped him into a stronger leader. As CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, General Lukeman discusses the mission of preserving and promoting the history, traditions, and values of the Corps through the National Museum of the Marine Corps and beyond. From the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps to the Foundation’s education and outreach initiatives, he offers a powerful vision of how the legacy of the Marines continues to inspire unity, service, and hope for the future. About Gen. Jim Lukeman: As the current CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, retired U.S. Marines Corps Major General James Lukeman’s mission is to preserve and promulgate the history, traditions, and culture of the Marine Corps, and educate all Americans about its virtue. Jim Lukeman attended the University of Notre Dame on a Marine Corps ROTC scholarship, was commissioned as a second lieutenant upon graduation, and spent 40 years of his life on active military duty. Among his many assignments over the years, General Lukeman was deployed to the Persian Gulf, Germany, and Okinawa. He was detailed to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, served as the Chief of Staff for Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, served as the Deputy Director for Strategy and Plans for the U-S Africa Command, was the Commanding General of the Second Marine Division, and served as the Commanding General of the Training and Education Command.

This week on Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Sophia Mullins, founder of Wall Street Wellness, LLC, to share her remarkable journey from the fast-paced world of investment banking and private equity to becoming a leader in corporate wellness. After being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune thyroid condition, Sophia took charge of her health through functional medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Her recovery not only transformed her personal well-being but also ignited a passion for helping professionals thrive without sacrificing their health. That passion became Wall Street Wellness, a consultancy dedicated to equipping high-pressure workplaces with practical, sustainable wellness strategies. In this episode, Sophia opens up about her health journey, the hidden costs of stress in demanding industries, and the challenges of leaving a successful finance career to pursue a mission-driven path. She also explains what corporate wellness really means - beyond gym memberships and fruit bowls - and how organizations can build cultures that foster resilience, balance, and long-term performance. Whether you’re a professional navigating a high-stress career, a leader looking to invest in workplace wellness, or someone curious about making a bold career change, Sophia’s story offers inspiration, practical insights, and hope. About Sophia Mullins: Sophia Mullins spent nearly a decade working and thriving in the high-pressure world of investment banking, private equity, and hedge funds. Her life and career took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease. Through functional medicine, nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle changes, Sophia regained her health and discovered a passion for helping others navigate wellness in demanding careers. That passion led her to found Wall Street Wellness, a corporate wellness consultancy that helps individuals and companies integrate realistic, sustainable wellness practices into high-pressure work environments. Not only is she the founder of Wall Street Wellness, she’s also a certified health and well-being practitioner. Sophia’s mission is simple: empower professionals to perform at their best while maintaining their health, resilience, and balance.

In this episode of Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Dr. Tim Currie, CEO of NOVA and author of Swift Trust: Mastering Relationships in the Remote Work Revolution. Drawing from his groundbreaking research and leadership experience, Dr. Currie unpacks the hidden “trust bleed” that erodes collaboration, engagement, and culture in remote and hybrid workplaces. He explains why traditional approaches to building trust no longer work in today’s distributed environments and offers practical strategies for leaders to intentionally design the rituals, relationships, and structures that teams need to thrive. Whether you’re a business leader navigating hybrid work, an HR professional shaping culture, or a team member looking to strengthen connections, this conversation will give you actionable insights to help you and your organization succeed in the future of work. About Dr. Tim Currie: Dr. Tim Currie stands at the forefront of organizational trust innovation, having personally sold over $100 million in revenue and guided teams to over $1 billion more. As a transformational leader who's managed 1,000-plus professionals throughout his career, he combines doctoral-level research with lived experience, driving high-growth technology companies through digital transformation. His pioneering work on trust architecture promises to revolutionize how Fortune 500 companies build cultures of innovation in remote environments. When not reshaping the future of work, Dr. Currie applies his insights as an advisor to tech startups and private equity firms seeking exponential growth through trusted leadership.

As the 24th observance of the September 11th attacks approaches, Next Steps Forward host Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Kristen Breitweiser, a woman whose life was forever changed that day and who transformed her grief into a powerful call for justice and accountability. After losing her husband, Ron, in the attacks on the World Trade Center, Kristen emerged as one of the most determined and influential voices for 9/11 families. Alongside three other widows, known to the nation as the “Jersey Girls,” she fought tirelessly for the creation of the 9/11 Commission, testified before Congress, and challenged the U.S. government to answer hard questions. In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Kristen reflects on: Life with her husband Ron before 9/11 and the moments she holds most dear The morning of September 11, 2001, and the immediate aftermath of loss How her grief became a driving force for activism and systemic change The creation and legacy of the 9/11 Commission; its successes and shortcomings The resilience it takes to face criticism and keep pushing forward Kristen also shares insights from her book, Wake-Up Call: The Political Education of a 9/11 Widow, which chronicles her journey from suburban mom to nationally recognized advocate. Whether you lived through 9/11 or belong to a generation that only knows it through history, this episode is a powerful reminder of courage, resilience, and the ability of “ordinary people” to make extraordinary change. About Kristen Breitweiser: Kristen Breitweiser is a 9/11 widow, lawyer, and activist who has spent more than two decades demanding truth, accountability, and justice for victims of terrorism. Thrust into advocacy after the loss of her husband Ron in the South Tower on September 11, 2001, she helped lead a movement, known as the “Jersey Girls," that transformed grief into action. Their persistence forced the creation of the 9/11 Commission and ensured Congress enacted sweeping national security reforms based on its recommendations. Breitweiser testified before the Joint Inquiry of Congress in September 2002, calling for the Commission’s establishment, and later before the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee in 2004 on the need for reforms. She chronicled her journey in her memoir Wake Up Call: The Political Education of a 9/11 Widow, and continues to be a leading voice on victims’ rights and government accountability. Her work has extended far beyond the Commission. She has been deeply involved in shaping legislation such as the Justice Against State Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA), the 9/11 Transparency and Accountability Act, the Sudan Claims Resolution Act, and reforms to the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund (USVSSTF). Most recently, she was involved in the “Fairness for 9/11 Families Act,” legislation that, while intended to deliver long-overdue justice, was ultimately compromised and provided only sharply limited restitution to thousands of 9/11 estates, widows, and children. Today, Breitweiser continues her advocacy on Guantánamo, counterterrorism policy, and the pursuit of full and equitable restitution for all victims of state-sponsored terrorism. She is currently at work on a follow-up to Wake Up Call (to be released in September 2026) and co-hosts the soon-to-launch Chat 9-11 Podcast.

This week on Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Dr. Ron Acierno, professor and vice chair of Veterans Affairs in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School, and executive director of the UTHealth Trauma and Resilience Center. With more than 150 published articles, 30 book chapters, and decades of groundbreaking research, Dr. Acierno is a leading voice on trauma, resilience, and veteran mental health. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Acierno and Dr. Meek explore: The realities and misconceptions surrounding post-trauma stress and why language matters. The urgent challenges of veteran suicide, moral injury, and stigma around seeking care. How trauma affects not only service members but also spouses, partners, and children and what whole-family healing can look like. Breakthroughs in treatment approaches, including telemedicine, peer-to-peer support, and innovative interventions that save lives. Insights from working with veterans across generations, from Korea and Vietnam to today’s post-9/11 era. Dr. Acierno also discusses his research on elder abuse, the future of trauma treatment, and how digital platforms and artificial intelligence may shape mental health care moving forward. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, a clinician, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of trauma and resilience, this episode offers wisdom, hope, and actionable insights. About Dr. Ronald Acierno: Ron Acierno is a professor and vice chair of Veterans Affairs in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UTHealth Houston McGovern Medical School. He also serves as the Executive Director of the UTHealth Trauma and Resilience Center (TRC). Acierno has two related but distinct research foci: epidemiological studies of elder mistreatment and treatment outcome studies, focusing on victims of trauma, disaster, combat or loss. He has served as Principal Investigator on grants from NIA, NIMH, NIJ, the Department of Defense, The Department of Veterans Affairs, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, the Archstone Foundation, and the Retirement Research Foundation. Thus Acierno mixes epidemiological research with treatment outcome research, and keeps close to the clinical world as a clinician-administrator for treatment programs serving both civilian and military traumatized populations. Acierno has also been recognized for his personal investment in the mentoring of others, with over 20 current faculty researchers across the country having worked alongside him in his lab over the years. Acierno has over 150 published articles and 30 book chapters, and has served on the Editorial Boards of several journals. In addition, he is a member of several grant review committees for the VA, NIH, and DoD. Finally, he has worked on special expert panels in the areas of elder abuse for the CDC, the WHO, and the NIJ.

What makes a good leader truly great? In this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Dr. Dana Kirchman, leadership expert, executive coach, and trusted advisor, to explore that very question. With more than 25 years of experience working alongside leaders at the highest levels, Dr. Kirchman shares her insights on the habits, mindsets, and relational skills that drive authentic leadership transformation. From the role of compassion in high-stakes environments, to the impact of remote and hybrid work, to the essential differences between emotional intelligence and relational intelligence, Dr. Kirchman unpacks what leaders need most to succeed in today’s world. Listeners will also hear her perspectives on when to seek executive coaching, what to look for in a coach, and how coaching can empower both top executives and emerging leaders to reach their full potential. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an aspiring leader, or someone curious about how leadership evolves, this episode offers practical wisdom, candid stories, and thought-provoking lessons to help you take your own next steps forward. About Dr. Dana Kirchman: Dr. Dana Kirchman, Ed.D., J.D., PCC, leads an executive and team coaching practice grounded in compassion and relational intelligence. Dana is a leadership expert, executive coach, and trusted advisor, partnering with leaders at the highest levels for over twenty-five years. Known for her combination of expertise, insightful candor, and care, Dana brings experienced points of view to leadership transformation. Dana holds a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California and teaches at the Columbia University Coaching Certificate Program. She is an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and a Columbia University Certified Executive Coach, combining practical coaching methods with a rigorous understanding of organizational culture. Dana earned her J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School and her B.A., summa cum laude, from Yale University. She has also worked as a theatrical producer and is a trained meditation instructor who can integrate creativity and mindfulness into her coaching work. As a counselor and catalyst, Dana supports clients while challenging them to think bigger and lead more purposefully. She is a sought-after guide for executives navigating change.

Janice Trey, the head of Epoch Times/NTD Network, and Ying Chen, conductor at Shen Yun Performing Arts, join program host Dr. Chris Meek in this installment of Next Steps Forward to discuss their experiences with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), communist history and to highlight the ongoing human rights abuses of numerous groups in China. Janice Trey will detail her experiences in a CCP labor camp, where she lived until she was 9 years old, and her inside view of the two vastly different worlds of communism and freedom. She discusses why her commitment to spread true information and accurate unbiased journalism is important, not just for her but for everyone. As the conductor of Shen Yun Performing Arts, Ying Chen shares her personal experiences defying the CCP’s attempts to cancel Shen Yun, the difficulties the company has faced in light of the CCP’s global campaign to cancel it and what fuels her sense of empowerment in the face of adversity. Both Janice and Ying’s journeys and work underscore the necessity to keep people informed. Janice Trey: Janice Trey’s thirst for truth sprouted from a Chinese labor camp. She was born in the middle of the Cultural Revolution—one of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Mao Zedong’s campaigns that targeted traditional Chinese culture, killing an estimated millions. Living her first 9 years in the camp and making it out has given her an inside view of two vastly different worlds and a commitment to spread true information and accurate unbiased journalism as the head of the Epoch Times/NTD Network. During the Communist Cultural Revolution, authorities labeled people like her parents, college educated engineers as an inferior class and sent them (and the entire family) to a labor camp in a remote southern Chinese village. The living conditions were brutal. When she came to the United States her quest for learning led her to the University of Texas at Austin and Harvard Business School where she excelled. She also holds a Management and Leadership certificate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Janice Trey, is a Certified Public Accountant, has held various executive roles at Fortune 500 companies. Her healthcare experience includes leadership roles in global health tech, consumer lifestyle, medical device, life science, and technology companies. Ms. Trey is passionate about boosting well-being, and saving and improving lives. She is a strong advocate of human rights, free speech, free press and freedom of religion. In that regard, she encourages excellence from her team of journalists and on-air broadcasters to provide the accurate news and information that is critical to the world. Ying Chen: Since Shen Yun’s inception in 2006, Ying Chen has served as conductor, principal flutist, piccoloist, orchestra manager, and stage manager. She was born into a family of elite musicians in Beijing, and studied flute at the Music Middle School Affiliated to Shanghai Conservatory. After graduating with the highest honors, she relocated to the United States, where she attended Esther Boyer College of Music at Temple University on scholarship and studied with the principal flutist of the Philadelphia Orchestra. She composed pieces for New Tang Dynasty Television’s Global Chinese New Year Gala and Holiday Wonders performances in 2004 and 2005.

In this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek sits down with retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Patricia “Patty” D. Horoho, a trailblazer who made history as the first woman, first nurse, and first non-physician to serve as the Army Surgeon General and Commander of the U.S. Army Medical Command. With a career spanning over 38 years of service, General Horoho reflects on her remarkable journey from the Green Ramp disaster in 1994 to the Pentagon on 9/11, and her transformational leadership in Army medicine. After retiring from the Army, General Horoho’s leadership continues to shine as Chief Strategy, Innovation and Transformation Officer for Optum Health, where she has rapidly grown the organization to multi-billion-dollar success, particularly through her agile response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this conversation, they discuss her career milestones, leadership principles, resilience, and the groundbreaking changes she implemented in military healthcare. LTG Horoho also shares insights into her personal life, including balancing her demanding career with motherhood, and how she continues to serve others through the 2Serve Together Foundation, which honors military women. Tune in to hear her inspiring advice on leadership, resilience, and the importance of empowering the next generation of leaders—especially women. About LTG Patricia "Patty" D. Horoho: Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Patricia “Patty” D. Horoho is the current Chief Strategy, Innovation and Transformation Officer for Optum Health. She was the 43rd Army Surgeon General and the Commander of the U.S. Army Medical Command. She made history as the first woman, first nurse and first non-physician to hold these posts. In these roles, LTG Horoho led the world’s third-largest health care system with a multi-billion-dollar budget, a staff of 156,000 and a global logistics, research and care network that spanned five continents. After her retirement from the Army in December 2015, she joined UnitedHealth Group in 2017 to establish the Optum Serve brand, which is the end-to-end federal business of both Optum and UnitedHealth Group. In the last two years, Optum Serve has entered into new markets, grown the top line by three-hundred percent, and grown into a multi-billion dollar organization. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, her agility and ability to effectively leverage resources resulted in Optum Serve rapidly standing up new business models to support COVID-19 testing and vaccine distribution. In 2023, LTG Horoho also established the 2Serve Together Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring our military women.

What happens when the protectors need protection? This week on Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek sits down with Lieutenant Randy Sutton (Ret.), a 34-year law enforcement veteran, national media voice, and founder of The Wounded Blue, the only nationwide organization dedicated to helping injured and disabled law enforcement officers. During his decades of service, Randy Sutton witnessed firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the job - especially when officers are injured in the line of duty. Out of that experience, he created The Wounded Blue, a nonprofit that provides critical support, advocacy, and peer counseling to officers and their families when they need it most. In this powerful conversation, Sutton shares: ✔ The real challenges faced by law enforcement officers when tragedy strikes. ✔ How The Wounded Blue is changing lives - and why the need for its mission is greater than ever. ✔ His perspective on the state of policing in America today. ✔ Personal stories from a remarkable 34-year career that earned him the reputation as the “voice of American law enforcement.” If you care about public safety, resilience, and supporting our nation’s heroes, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss. About Randy Sutton: Lieutenant Randy Sutton (Ret.) is a distinguished figure in the law enforcement community. With over 34 years of service, he brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Sutton founded The Wounded Blue as a means to support injured and disabled law enforcement officers. As the Chair of the Board of Directors, he leads initiatives aimed at providing assistance and resources to those who have sacrificed for the safety of others. In addition to his contributions in law enforcement, Sutton is a prolific author, and his insights have earned him appearances in movies and TV shows, solidifying his reputation as the “voice of American law enforcement.”

What can economics teach us about leadership, resilience, and character? This week on Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Seung Paik, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, award-winning educator, and creator of Leadernomics, for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership in today’s complex world. After 25 years of distinguished service, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and leadership roles across the globe, Paik transitioned from military command to the classroom - where he combined his passion for leadership and economics into a groundbreaking framework: Leadernomics. Described as “the 101 course everyone wishes they had,” Leadernomics explores the intersection of economic principles and leadership behaviors to help individuals and organizations move from “what is” to “what should be.” About Lt. Col. Seung Paik: Seung Paik retired from the United States Air Force at the rank of colonel after 25 years of distinguished service. He has led award-winning organizations at various levels, specializing in resource and financial management, and has served in operations across the globe from Korea, Japan and Germany to deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He received his master’s degree from Penn State University and has been an instructor at both the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and the United States Air Force Academy where he was awarded the Outstanding Academy Educator. As a dedicated educator, Seung Paik has taught micro and macroeconomics, law and economics and developed a seminar on the economics of sports. While teaching at the Academy, Seung’s passion for leadership and economics came together in the creation of Leadernomics, which he describes as the 101 everyone wishes they had.

Cari Kenzie is trailblazer in the fields of leadership, resilience and personal transformation. As a dynamic speaker, coach and entrepreneur, Cari has dedicated her life to empowering others to rise above their circumstances and lead with purpose. In 2013, Cari’s life took an unexpected turn when she survived the Boston Marathon bombing. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment, reshaping her understanding of resilience, leadership and the power of choice. Rather than being defined by the trauma, Cari chose to transform it into a source of strength and inspiration. Her story is not just about surviving adversity - it’s about using that adversity as a catalyst for profound personal and professional growth. Before becoming the renowned speaker and coach she is today, Cari was at the helm of a multi-million-dollar marketing agency. Her leadership guided the company to great success, culminating in a strategic acquisition that allowed her to transition into a new chapter - one that would focus on helping others navigate their own paths to success. This transition was not just a career shift but a calling, leading Cari to co-found iShift, a movement designed to challenge the status quo and awaken the leader within every individual. About Cari Kenzie: As a dynamic speaker, coach and entrepreneur, Cari Kenzie joins program host Dr. Chris Meek on Next Steps Forward to speak about dedicating her life to empowering others to rise above their circumstances. The harrowing experience of surviving the 2013 Boston Marathon prompted her to transform the experience into a source of strength and inspiration instead of being defined by the trauma. Cari was also previously at the helm of a multi-million-dollar marketing agency. Her leadership guided the company to great success, culminating in a strategic acquisition that allowed her to transition into a new chapter - one that would focus on helping others navigate their own paths to success. The audience will find Cari’s mission to be clear: to help guide others to make the powerful choice to wake up not to the shadows of the past but to the limitless possibilities of the future. She will discuss why curiosity is the first step to true leadership, the importance of asking the right questions even in the midst of chaos, and her belief that every individual has the potential to lead with authenticity and strength.

In this moving episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek is joined by brothers Patrick and James Dowdell - two men whose lives were forever changed on September 11, 2001, when they lost their father, FDNY Lieutenant Kevin Dowdell. Patrick and James share how that moment of tragedy inspired lives of extraordinary service. Patrick went on to graduate from West Point, serve as a combat platoon leader in Iraq, and lead operations in Afghanistan as a captain. James, just 17 at the time of 9/11, later followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the FDNY and now serves as a lieutenant, continuing the legacy of bravery and public service. Through heartfelt stories of loss, leadership, and resilience, the Dowdell brothers reflect on the values instilled in them by their parents, how their father's sacrifice continues to shape their path, and what it means to live a life of purpose in honor of those we've lost. Join them for an unforgettable conversation about courage, commitment, and the enduring power of family legacy. About James and Patrick Dowdell: Brothers James and Patrick Dowdell grew up as the sons of a New York City firefighter and a public-school teacher, who instilled service and leadership as the core of their life missions. Following the tragic loss of their father, FDNY Lieutenant Kevin Dowdell, on September 11, 2001, Patrick and James joined the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. The following year, Patrick was accepted into the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant when he graduated in 2006 and served a one-year deployment as a platoon leader in Iraq beginning in 2008 during combat operations in Baghdad. Promoted to captain, he deployed to Afghanistan in 2010, overseeing mission planning and combat operations in Farah Province. James Dowdell was a 17 year old high school senior when he participated in the search and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site. He began his formal FDNY career on Ladder 174 in Brooklyn. James was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in January on what would have been his father’s 70th birthday. James Dowdell is also a sought-after public speaker who draws upon the invaluable lessons he learned from his father’s legacy to inspire audiences with insights into service, resilience, and the enduring impact of family and duty.

In this powerful and enlightening episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes psychiatrist and author Dr. Steve Lesk, a 40-year veteran of the mental health field and author of Footprints of Schizophrenia: The Evolutionary Roots of Mental Illness. With decades of experience treating patients and mentoring professionals, Dr. Lesk brings a groundbreaking perspective to one of the most misunderstood mental illnesses: schizophrenia. Dr. Lesk explores his pioneering “primitive organization” theory, which draws from evolutionary biology, neurochemistry, and psychology to offer a new understanding of schizophrenia - not as a broken system, but as a reflection of ancient brain structures. He tackles some of the biggest myths surrounding the illness, addresses the stigma and misconceptions, and offers compelling arguments for empathy, early intervention, and a shift in how psychiatry approaches diagnosis and treatment. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a caregiver, or someone curious about the human mind, this episode offers critical takeaways and a hopeful vision for the future of mental health care. About Dr. Steven Lesk: Dr. Steven Lesk is the author of Footprints of Schizophrenia: The Evolutionary Roots of Mental Illness. He became a practicing, board-certified psychiatrist in 1984 and he’s treated thousands of adult patients as he has conducted research, written articles, and mentored students. He served as Chairman of the Department of Inpatient Psychiatric Services at the Brooklyn Veterans Administration Hospital and was an assistant professor at the hospital’s affiliated medical school. He is pioneering new theories in hopes of improving our understanding of the illnesses that patients endure and reducing stigma while surging empathy.

On this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek is joined by psychologist, researcher, and acclaimed author Faust Ruggiero for a timely and empowering conversation about the nature of addiction and the path to recovery. With over 35 years of experience in private practice and clinical settings ranging from substance abuse centers to prisons and nursing homes, Ruggiero brings deep expertise and compassion to the conversation. He discusses his upcoming book, The Fix Your Addiction Handbook - the fifth installment in his groundbreaking Fix Yourself Empowerment Series. In this episode, Ruggiero breaks down the complex emotional, physical, and psychological layers of addiction, offering actionable steps that anyone - whether struggling with addiction or supporting a loved one - can take to reclaim their life. From understanding the roots and types of addiction to learning how to apply a slow, steady, process-oriented approach to healing, this episode is a must-listen for those seeking clarity, hope, and change. Whether you're personally affected by addiction or simply want to be better informed, this conversation provides both the knowledge and encouragement to take the next steps forward. About Faust Ruggiero: Faust Ruggiero is a psychologist who has been in private practice for over thirty-five years. Before entering private practice, he worked in clinics for deaf children, prisons, nursing homes, substance abuse centers, inpatient facilities, and is a consultant for major national and international corporations. He is a published research author and a professional clinical trainer.

On this week’s Next Steps Forward, Dr. Chris Meek welcomes back environmental expert and author Dr. John Berger for a timely and eye-opening conversation on the climate crisis. Building on their first interview, Dr. Berger - author of Solving the Climate Crisis -discusses the evolving science of climate change, the rise of organized denial, setbacks in U.S. environmental policy, and how we can still chart a hopeful path forward. From energy waste in American buildings to the global responsibility for emissions, Dr. Berger offers practical insight and a compelling call to action. Whether you're passionate about sustainability or simply want to understand what’s at stake, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, solutions, and motivation to act. About Dr. John Berger: Dr. John Berger is an environmental science and policy specialist and a former senior research fellow at The Pacific Institute. He is the author of Solving the Climate Crisis: Frontline Reports from the Race to Save the Earth, which he spent more than six years researching as he traveled the nation and abroad to gather a sweeping array of perspectives. A graduate of Stanford and the University of California, Dr. Berger has written more than 100 articles on climate change and transitioning to clean energy for such publications as Scientific American, the Los Angeles Times, and the Boston Globe. He also has been a consultant to the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, corporations, utilities, and Congress.

This week on Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Bill Eddy - licensed clinical social worker, attorney, and director of innovation at the High Conflict Institute - for a compelling look at the rise of adult bullying. Drawing from his book The New World of Adult Bullies, Eddy explains how high-conflict personalities are impacting workplaces, families, and online spaces like never before. He breaks down the key traits of adult bullies, the difference between conflict and bullying, and why traditional conflict resolution often fails with these individuals. Listeners will learn practical tools - including Eddy’s BIFF Method (Brief, Informative, Friendly, Firm) - to navigate toxic interactions, set boundaries, and protect their mental well-being. Whether you're dealing with a difficult coworker or curious about hidden patterns of manipulation, this episode offers empowering insight to help you take your next steps forward. About Bill Eddy: William Eddy is a licensed social worker, attorney, and the director of innovation at the High Conflict Institute in San Diego, California. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Case Western Reserve University, his Master of Social Work from San Diego State University and his juris doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law. He has extensive expertise with conflict resolution and high-conflict personalities and his professional experience includes roles at Pepperdine University School of Law, National Judicial College, and various counseling and psychiatric institutions. Bill Eddy is also a prolific writer. His numerous books include Five Types of People Who Can Ruin Your Life, The New World of Adult Bullies, It’s All Your Fault, and Don’t Alienate the Kids: Raising Resilient Children While Avoiding High-Conflict Divorce. He is also the co-author of a four-book BIFF series “It’s All Your Fault at Work: Managing Narcissists and Other High-Conflict People” and “Dating Radar: Why Your Brain Says Yes to ‘The One’ Who Will Make Your Life Hell.”