This Way Up

In this episode of This Way Up, Tamar Blue, CEO of MentalHappy, shares how technology can be a force for good in the mental health space. The conversation dives into the unique value of virtual support groups, how they differ from traditional social media, and how caregivers can find safe, tailored communities that meet their needs. Tamar also speaks candidly about the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, offering realistic self-care strategies that don't require massive time or energy. With features like anonymity, privacy, and both expert-led and peer-led groups—including free options—MentalHappy creates space for real connection and healing. The episode also explores the emerging role of AI in mental health care, where efficiency and accessibility meet the irreplaceable power of human connection. Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

For 1 in 200 kids, a simple strep throat infection can trigger PANDAS—a devastating autoimmune condition that causes sudden-onset OCD, tics, rage, and anxiety. In this episode, Ethan shares his deeply personal journey: from misdiagnoses and medication trials to discovering that brain inflammation was the key to understanding his symptoms. He opens up about the treatments that helped him take control—like CBD for inflammation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), diet changes, exercise, and stress management—and how he’s turned his struggle into a message of hope. This one hits hard for me—PANDAS has touched my own family, and I know firsthand how isolating and overwhelming it can be. Ethan’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible and that no one is alone in this fight. BIO: Ethan Pompeo was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition called PANDAS when he was young. His symptoms came on suddenly and included everything from tics, OCD, and even rage. He found relief with Pot (marijuana); but didn’t like varying degrees of being stoned to decrease his PANDAS symptoms. Eventually he learned that it was not the THC giving him relief, but the CBD… which he could take without getting high. PANDAS – Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associate with Streptococcal Infections RESOURCES: Visit Ethan's Website: https://www.greenvalleynutrition.com/ Visit Ethan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNniFaDFyhMOnC11CDPjZEQ For More on Ethan's Upcoming Book: https://www.greenvalleynutrition.com/pages/book Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Ever notice how the energy you bring into a room can shift everything—good or bad—without saying a word? In this episode, Annmarie Chereso invites us to rethink how we show up in our most important relationships—whether that’s with our kids, partners, friends, or even ourselves. She shares how tuning into your own energy and learning to trust your instincts can create more ease, better communication, and real connection. Yes, we talk parenting—but not in the usual “tips and tricks” way. Annmarie goes deeper, helping us see how fear-based habits sneak into the way we relate, and how letting go of control can actually bring us closer to the people we love (even those strong-willed little ones... or stubborn adult children). You’ll get practical, grounded advice on how to shift from reactive to intentional, and why understanding someone’s true nature—not who we wish they were—is the real key to connection. No fluff. No perfection required. Just real talk, thoughtful tools, and a fresh take that’s as useful in the carpool lane as it is in a tough conversation with your 25-year-old. BIO: Author, Meditation Teacher, and Transformational Coach, Annmarie Chereso empowers parents, children and families to discover authentic happiness and true success. Through her playful, heart-centered approach, Annmarie combines mindfulness mastery with practical tools, helping clients cultivate self-awareness, harness their innate power, and overcome limiting beliefs to embrace their most empowered selves. With over two decades of expertise, Annmarie has trained educators, students, and parents globally through online courses, coaching, speaking engagements, workshops, and retreats. She's collaborated with renowned leaders including Dr. Shefali Tsabary and The Conscious Leadership Group and has worked with institutions like The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Francis W. Parker, and KIPP and The Chicago Public Schools. Based in downtown Chicago Annmarie and her husband co-parent their blended family of nine children and three grandchildren. You'll often find her walking her dog along Lake Michigan, taking deep breaths and embracing her mantra: "It's not about parenting perfectly, it's about parenting authentically.” RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: annmariechereso.me @annmariechereso Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Who will make sure your child with special needs or mental health challenges — even as an adult — is cared for when you no longer can? In this episode of This Way Up, Andrea sits down with Sara Ecklein, a fiduciary specializing in special needs trusts, to tackle this critical question. They unpack what a special needs trust is, why it's essential for securing a stable future, and how it can protect both care and financial support, no matter your child’s age. Sarah also shares what it’s like managing the maze of public benefits and why building a trusted team is key. Whether you're just starting to plan or already deep in advocacy for your child’s mental health or special needs, this conversation offers real-world advice, fresh insights, and peace of mind for the road ahead. BIO Sara Ecklein is a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary, a Certified National Guardian, and the founder of Trust & Honor, a Mindful Fiduciary Agency. Her path to fiduciary work was deeply influenced by personal experiences with loss and end-of-life care. After witnessing a loved one's final days, Sara felt a strong calling to provide healing and calm during the end of life transition. Since 2014, she has dedicated to the private professional fiduciary profession, serving senior and disabled populations, specializing in end-of-life care, proactive planning, navigating complex family dynamics, Special Needs Trust administration and managing public benefits. As the host of The Legacy of Love podcast, Sara shares valuable insights on trust administration and end-of-life care, featuring expert interviews and personal stories to help listeners create a meaningful legacy. Sara lives in Silicon Valley with her husband and their young daughter. Links to share: LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/sara-ecklein-clpf-97460687 Legacy of Love Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2378190/15381267 Online: https://www.trustandhonor.co Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Parenthood messing with your mind or relationship? Psychologist Marcella Kaplani reveals the truth about Matrescence & Patrescence—and how to survive the emotional shifts. With 15+ years of experience, she breaks down the real psychological transitions into motherhood and fatherhood that no one talks about. We’re getting raw and real about what changes in your brain, your relationship, and your sense of self when you become a parent—and how to navigate it without losing your mind (or your partner). Hit play if you're ready to stop pretending everything’s fine and start understanding what’s actually happening behind the scenes of modern parenting. Like, subscribe, and share—because you’re not the only one who needs to hear this. BIO: Markella has dedicated her career to assisting adults, parents, and children navigate their mental health challenges. She holds a Master’s degree in Clinical & Counseling Psychology and has over 15 years of experience in both psychotherapeutic and educational settings. In working with such a range of people, she’s had the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the diverse systems that constitute the human experience. As such, she possesses a holistic point of view, understanding the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and their pivotal role in mental health. After becoming a mom herself, Markella shifted her focus to mothers and couples, recognizing the challenges that parenthood presents, ironically paired with the inordinate lack of assistance provided by our institutions and systems. Markella is passionate about elevating and empowering parents to reconnect with themselves, their partners, their children, and their dreams. She stands with compassion beside them and offers a path toward a new normal that contains even more love, even more growth, even more connection. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: @markella.kaplani markellakaplani.com/podcast www.markellakaplani.com Instagram.com/markella.kaplani Facebook.com/markella.kaplani Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Parenting is never easy—but when you’re raising a high-needs child, the challenges can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we sit down with Michelle McVittie, a seasoned child life specialist and parenting coach, to unpack the complexities of family dynamics. With over two decades of experience in pediatric medical and mental health settings, Michelle shares practical strategies for creating balance in the home. We explore key topics like co-regulation—learning to manage your own emotions while guiding your child through theirs, the power of structure and self-reflection, and why rescuing your child from discomfort can actually hinder resilience. Michelle also discusses how to strengthen partnerships, sibling dynamics, and community support, ensuring that every family member—not just the child in need—gets the care and attention they deserve. If you’ve ever felt stuck navigating the emotional rollercoaster of parenting, this conversation is packed with insights, tools, and encouragement to help you lead with confidence. BIO: Michelle McVittie is a child life specialist, author, and, parenting coach. Michelle has over two decades of experience in pediatric medical and mental health, with young offenders, and in daycares as a behaviour specialist. Michelle’s first book, “I Quit! Oh, wait I’m the Mom” is a self-help book with practical tips to help Moms find their joy again in motherhood. Michelle specializes in ADHD, anxiety, strong-willed children, parenting teens, communication, collaborative problem-solving, and emotion coaching. Michelle is the CHCH morning live parenting expert and was the host of her own tv show Life with Children, on Cable 14. She works with parents 1:1 and has on-demand parenting programs. Michelle is the mother of two, a teen and a young adult and has been married to her for 21 years. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://momthemanager.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/michellemcvittiemomthemanager https://www.instagram.com/momthemanager/ https://www.tiktok.com/@momthemanager Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Emotions shape everything we do—how we think, react, and connect with others. In this episode of This Way Up, I sit down with Matt Sandoval, CEO of Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, for a deep, thought-provoking conversation about emotions and their role in our daily lives. We explore how curiosity can help us better understand what we feel and how creative expression—both traditional and unconventional—can be a powerful tool for emotional growth and healing. Get ready for an insightful discussion that just might change the way you see your own emotions! BIO: Matt Sandoval is an Arizona native who has served as an executive leader in human services and non-profit organizations for over 15 years. He is the Chief Executive Officer at Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona, which provides trauma-informed art activities through trained adult mentors for children and teens who have experienced the trauma of abuse, neglect, and homelessness. Matt is a public speaker and trainer on mental health and youth-related topics. He is also the host of Canvas of the Heart, the Free Arts podcast. Matt leads the Free Arts' strategic vision to offer programs in Arizona and the effort to establish Free Arts as a sector thought leader in child well-being and mentoring through expressive art programming. Formerly, Matt served as the VP of Community Initiatives at the YMCA, focusing on workforce development, alternative education, juvenile justice, and mentoring for teens and young adults. Additionally, Matt has served as the Executive Director of an independent living community for adults with developmental disabilities and as a Clinical Therapist. Matt has served on several non-profit and charter school boards for groups that support youth and community development in the greater Phoenix area. Matt holds a Master of Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. He is a Licensed Master Social Worker with the Arizona Behavioral Health Board of Examiners. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Canvas of the Heart Podcast (The Free Arts Podcast) https://open.spotify.com/show/7JMia7Ab7t7qtpvZGIzw8h?si=d02209e6229248baPodcast on YouTube (1) Canvas of the Heart Podcast - Art, Mentoring, and Trauma Recovery for Children, Youth, and Families - YouTube@freeartsaz on Instagram/FBOn the web at www.freeartsaz.orgMatt Sandoval on LinkedIn Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

What if self-care wasn’t a luxury, but your secret weapon for surviving—and thriving—in the chaos of daily life? In this episode of This Way Up, I sit down with Drew Greisel to unpack self-care in a way that’s actually doable—no guilt, no fluff, just real strategies that fit into your busy life. Drew is all about helping busy parents and professionals optimize their well-being without making it feel like another full-time job. We chat about why self-care isn’t selfish (seriously, it’s survival), how small daily habits—like drinking enough water, moving more, and getting quality sleep—can have a massive impact, and how to finally ditch the burnout cycle. Plus, Drew shares insights from his 10-week transformation program designed to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized—without the overwhelm. If you’ve ever felt like taking care of yourself is at the bottom of the to-do list, this episode is for you! BIO: Founded in 2020 by Drew Greisel, Primal Wellness Coaching emerged as a guiding force during a time of global uncertainty. Witnessing the mental and physical toll of lockdowns, Drew felt compelled to help others take control of their well-being. With a deep passion for fitness, nutrition, longevity, and biohacking, he became a trusted resource for friends, family, and students at the Krav Maga school where he volunteered. His commitment led him to pursue formal certifications, turning his passion into a mission to make wellness accessible and sustainable. What started as a grassroots effort quickly evolved into a dynamic coaching platform. Today, Primal Wellness Coaching offers structured fitness and nutrition programs, including The Superhuman Blueprint: A 10-Week Wellness Transformation, designed to create lasting physical and mental change. Reaching a global audience through online coaching and The Superhuman Blueprint Podcast, Drew and his team continue to empower individuals with practical, science-backed strategies for achieving optimal health—without the overwhelm. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://www.primalwellnesscoaching.com/ Superhuman Blue Print Podcast Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Ever find yourself staring at a blank page, pen in hand, with your mind just as empty? You're not alone. But here's the good news: journaling can be your secret weapon for emotional healing and mental clarity. Samantha Hawley, a seasoned journaling expert and host of the "Journal Entries" podcast, has cracked the code with her five-step process designed to get your thoughts flowing and your emotions in check. This isn't your typical journaling prompt. Samantha's method digs deep, helping you connect with your inner voice and navigate your feelings like a pro. By embracing this five-step process, you can transform your journaling sessions into powerful tools for emotional healing and personal growth. Ready to take control of your emotions and start your journey toward a more fulfilling life? Tune in to this episode and discover how journaling can be the game-changer you've been searching for. BIO: Samantha is a Journal Expert who has experienced many life transitions that accompany big emotions. Everything from moving 8 times in 10 years, going through pregnancy & new mom life, getting divorced, and feeling complacent and unfulfilled in her Corporate job. She opened up in her journal to vent about feeling overwhelmed with it all and ended up finding her voice, elevated her self worth & started living her life more intentionally. Now, she teaches women who are also going through transitions how to create the same level of awareness, inner peace, decisiveness & fulfillment in their own lives. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Journal Entries Podcast Samantha Hawley Facebook Samantha Hawley Instagram Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

We all remember those awkward puberty moments—the breakouts, the “We must, we must, we must increase our bust” chant, and maybe a few emotional roller coasters. But puberty is more than just acne and awkwardness; it’s a natural, transformative phase that starts in the brain, setting off a cascade of changes—emotional and physical. Puberty expert Kimberly Grustus helps reframe this time of life as a positive and empowering experience. She reminds us that 50% of mental health issues are established during this stage, and it’s crucial to approach these changes with empathy and support. In this video, Kimberly also touches on the impact of harmful chemicals, how early puberty affects mental health, and why positive language and self-care should be the focus, not just reproductive health. Whether it's journaling or simply being open to conversation, Kimberly encourages parents to help their daughters process their emotions and embrace their changing bodies. Plus, she highlights how menopause can be a chance for deeper connection with our kids, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Kimberly’s clean skincare line, Good For You Girls, also offers a safe, gentle approach to self-care for young girls, making it easier to support their journey. Puberty is a superpower, and with the right mindset, it can set the stage for a confident, empowered future! BIO: Brand Visionary Kimberly Grustas started Good For You Girls to keep girls away from toxic chemicals during puberty. With over 15 years in the natural product and nutrition industries, Kim had advanced knowledge of the dangers of even trace levels of estrogenic chemicals during the delicate transformation from girlhood to adult. Kim’s two daughters had asthma and allergies and when they were entering puberty, she was appalled at the ingredients in products marketed to young girls. The lack of safe, effective and age-appropriate products combined with her knowledge about the lowering age of puberty was all she needed to launch this transformative brand to help other moms keep their daughters safe. Kim has been called the O.G. of tween skincare and it’s not hard to see why. Good For You Girls was the first line of clean skincare dedicated to girls in the US and is a thought leader in helping moms connect to their daughters during these precious years. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: To learn more, visit: https://www.goodforyougirls.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimgrustas/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/goodforyougirls IG: https://www.instagram.com/goodforyougirls/ Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Did you know that nearly 40% of college students don’t complete their degree within six years, or that the transition to college is a peak time for mental health struggles? In this thought-provoking episode of This Way Up, host Andrea Nanigian tackles these pressing issues alongside Karen Klein, author of Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree. Together, they unpack the immense pressure placed on teens and parents when planning for the future and explore how alternative paths can lead to both success and happiness. Klein shares her powerful insights on the value of skills-based learning, apprenticeships, and pursuing passions outside the traditional four-year college system. They dive deep into how societal expectations can negatively impact mental health and why redefining success is key to a fulfilling life. This uplifting conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from outdated ideas about education and chart a new course for the next generation. BIO: Karin Klein is a longtime editorial writer for the Los Angeles Times, covering education, parenting and health. She has won numerous awards including sharing in two Pulitzer Prizes, and is currently a fellow with the Institute for Citizens and Scholars Most recently, she is the author of "Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree," published by HarperCollins. An avid hiker and certified naturalist, she previously wrote an interpretive hiking guide published by WW Norton. She has three grown children and lives in Laguna Beach, California, with her partner, film editor Rick Shaine, her Anatolian shepherd mix Leeloo and Tim the Cat. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree. https://a.co/d/6N6ywKu Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

What happens when conventional mental health treatments don’t work? For Tag Frothingham, the answer came in the form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)—a groundbreaking, non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, offering new hope for those battling depression and other mental health challenges. In this episode of This Way Up, Tag shares his extraordinary journey of overcoming severe depression, surviving cancer twice, and navigating a lifelong battle with mental health. He opens up about the frustrations of traditional treatments, the life-changing impact of TMS, and how this therapy has also supported his children’s mental health. This inspiring conversation highlights the transformative potential of TMS, the importance of advocating for innovative care, and the role of resilience in navigating life’s toughest moments. Don’t miss this compelling story of courage, hope, and the future of mental health care. BIO: Tag Frothingham is a husband and a dad of two teenagers who lives in Harvard, Massachusetts. He lives with depression and also provides support for family members with depression and anxiety. Tag is also a cancer survivor. Although he has worked in software engineering and quality assurance roles for technology companies for most of his career, he worked as a residential counselor while attending Wheaton College and for a few years after. Mental health has remained an important cause for him. In his spare time, you’ll find Tag reading, cooking, riding his bike, or playing with the family dog. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Families for Depression Awareness: https://www.familyaware.org/ Facebook and Instagram: @familyaware Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: TMS Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

In this insightful episode of This Way Up, I’m joined by Natasha Daniels, a leading anxiety & OCD therapist with over 20 years of experience. Natasha combines her clinical expertise with her personal journey of raising three children with anxiety and OCD, making her a deeply relatable and knowledgeable voice on this important topic. We dive into the key differences between OCD and anxiety—both in how they present and how they function physiologically. Natasha breaks down the concept of OCD as “bossy,” explaining how intrusive thoughts demand action, and how this can be effectively addressed with the right tools and mindset. But it’s not all about the challenges. We also explore how the unique wiring of the OCD brain, when managed well, can become a superpower. From heightened creativity to remarkable determination, Natasha shares how reframing OCD can unlock incredible strengths. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how to normalize and support healing for OCD sufferers, fostering understanding and helping individuals thrive. If you or someone you love is navigating OCD, this is a must-listen conversation filled with hope, empowerment, and practical advice. BIO Natasha Daniels has been an anxiety & OCD therapist for over two decades. She combines both her clinical expertise with her lived experience, raising her own three kids with anxiety and OCD. She is the creator of the website AT Parenting Survival, As well as the host to the show AT Parenting Survival Podcast and the Youtube channel, Ask the Child Therapist. She also gives in-depth support to thousands of parents raising kids with anxiety or OCD through her books, courses in the AT Parenting Survival Online School and in her online membership AT Parenting Community. Her latest books include Crushing OCD Workbook for Kids and her memoir, Out of My Shell: Overcoming Social Anxiety from Childhood to Adulthood. Send us a text Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text Did you know the average person experiences a state of hypnosis twice a day? (Center for Integral Health) So why is it such a mystery? In this episode, clinical hypnotherapist, Craig Meriwether explores the often misunderstood world of hypnotherapy. Craig highlights the misconceptions surrounding hypnotherapy, emphasizing that it doesn't 'fix' people but rather empowers them to heal themselves. Through vivid anecdotes and examples, Craig illustrates how hypnotherapy can unlock deep-seated issues from the subconscious mind and provide tools for better emotional management. Craig also talks about test anxiety and how it goes beyond just students but can occur for those who encounter any performance stressor. BIO: Craig is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Medical Hypnosis Specialist, Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) specialist, and Founder of Arizona Integrative Hypnotherapy helping people eliminate the negative emotions and limiting beliefs that may be keeping them from reaching their full potential. For over 12 years, Craig has been helping people heal from early childhood trauma, helping cancer patients with pain control, veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, students with test anxiety, entrepreneurs with confidence, athletes with peak performance, and anyone who may be dealing with overwhelm, fear and anxiety. Craig has created Ace Any Test, the most comprehensive course for test anxiety relief so people can eliminate anxiety around exams, auditions, job interviews and public speaking, as well as increase confidence and self-esteem. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Listeners are welcome to download 5 free recordings to Program Yourself For Confidence. https://aceanytest.com/boost-your-confidence/ https://www.facebook.com/AceAnyTest https://www.instagram.com/ace_any_test/ https://aceanytest.com/ https://arizonaintegrativehypnotherapy.com/ Thank you for tuning in to today's episode! We hope you enjoyed the discussion and found it both insightful and inspiring. Now, we want to hear from you! Share your experiences, questions, or ideas with us by leaving a comment or sending us a message on our website or social media channels. Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concern in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults every year? Yet, many are left managing symptoms rather than truly healing. In this eye-opening episode of This Way Up, Andrea Nanigian sits down with Noelle McWard Aquino to redefine how we approach anxiety. Noelle introduces three distinct anxiety types—Future Catastrophizing, Control, and Distorted Beliefs—and shares practical strategies to tackle anxiety at its root, offering a path toward genuine relief and peace. Moving beyond conventional advice, Noelle shifts the focus to what we can control in our lives, empowering listeners to reclaim their strength. This episode also sheds light on the resilience of those living with chronic anxiety and why compassion is crucial in their journey. If you or someone you love is grappling with anxiety, this conversation is a must-listen, full of actionable tools and inspiration to help you move forward. BIO: Noelle McWard Aquino is a psychotherapist who has been practicing for 30 years in Chicago, IL. Noelle specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and has developed a unique framework for understanding and treating anxiety. As a Licensed Continuing Education Sponsor for mental health professionals, Noelle teaches this model to therapists, and uses it in her work with clients. She writes an ongoing blog, “Unpacking Anxiety” as an expert content contributor for PsychologyToday.com and is the author of an upcoming book based on her model. Beyond her professional experience, Noelle is the mother of a young adult son who has lived with generalized anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder for most of his life. It is her mission to help relieve the suffering of those living with anxiety. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Social media @noellemcwardaquino on Instagram website: www.counselingsolutionschicago.com. Thank you for tuning in to today's episode! We hope you enjoyed the discussion and found it both insightful and inspiring. Now, we want to hear from you! Share your experiences, questions, or ideas with us by leaving a comment or sending us a message on our website or social media channels. If you found value in today's episode, please consider subscribing to our podcast and leaving a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like yourself. And finally, don't forget to spread the word! Share this podcast with your friends, family, and colleagues who might benefit from the valuable content we offer. Together, let's keep the conversation going, create a supportive community, and make a positive impact. Thank you for being a part of our podcast family. Until next time! (Note: For listeners who may be struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help or reach out to a mental health support helpline in your country.) Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode, we talk with Jason Tuttle, a former stay-at-home parent and father of two children with significant disabilities. After the tragic loss of his 15-year-old son, Zachary, Jason created an online group called Letters to Zachary to openly share his grief and help others navigate similar experiences. Jason bravely discusses male grief, societal expectations, and the raw realities of losing a child. He opens up about his family's journey, the emotional toll, and the coping mechanisms that have helped him and his family. Tune in to hear a sincere conversation about the complexities of grief and the importance of vulnerability and community support. BIO: Jason Tuttle is a former stay-at-home parent and married father of 2 kids with multiple physical and cognitive disabilities. He lost his 15 year old special needs son 01/28/22. From that day, Jason decided that he wanted to help others while he grieved. So, he created “Letters To Zachary” as an open, raw, vulnerable way to be an example and share his feelings as well as help others to see a glimpse into the male mind and how it grieves RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: www.LettersToZachary.com Instagram Facebook Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text What if we could equip young people—and ourselves—with the tools to handle mental health challenges before they happen? Erin Harris, founder of Undo Mindset, shares her powerful journey from surviving a school shooting to creating a nonprofit dedicated to reshaping mental health care. Erin’s experience as a teacher in a traumatic crisis sparked a mission to make mental health skills as essential as reading and math in schools, giving students the resilience to face life’s ups and downs. Through Undo Mindset, Erin’s proactive approach targets underserved communities, first responders, and transient populations, ensuring that everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive. In this conversation, Erin explores why our traditional, reactive mental health systems aren’t enough to address today’s crisis—and why building resilience early on is crucial. For parents, she offers practical strategies to keep mental health discussions open, honest, and meaningful in a tech-driven world that often complicates emotional wellbeing. Don’t miss this inspiring episode to learn how proactive mental health care can empower individuals and create a stronger foundation for future generations. Tune in to discover how a proactive approach can be a game-changer for all of us. BIO: Erin Harris has proudly worked as an educator in 9 different schools in her 15 year educational career. These opportunities allowed her to work in neighborhood schools, charter schools, turn-around schools, start-up schools, schools in more economically struggling communities, and schools in more affluent areas. These differing experiences gave Erin the opportunity to truly see a wide range of schools, systems, programs, what was working, and where our gaps are within the educational system. Erin brings her diverse teaching background to each class taught, providing each student with supports needed to meet their diverse needs. ​One of the greatest gaps Erin has observed in her career is the need to support students with making their thought process a productive and positive experience. She has observed how kids are being exposed to so much adult information and knowledge but don't have the mindset skills needed to support the thought process that goes with that exposure. She is passionate about teaching kids the skills needed to efficiently bridge this gap within their own thought patterns. After being in a school shooting, our founder, Erin, sought trauma recovery assistance. Through this process, she learned an immense amount of mental health skills. The problem was that the program she attended was for adults only. Sick of seeing our country's reactive approach to mental health, the idea for Un/do was born - teaching proactive mindset skills so our youth have these tools in their back pockets prior to experiencing crisis. When not pursuing her dreams or working in the education world, Erin can be found exploring the mountains with her family. Originally from DC, Erin, her husband, Jeremy, and her two children, Logan and Emi, have been calling Colorado home for a decade. They love to snowboard, ski, hike, mountain bike, raft, camp, SUP, and just about every other fun activity the beautiful mountains have to offer us. Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text In this inspiring episode, Millionaire Williams, author of 'Military Mom on a Mission', shares her poignant journey of supporting her son through PTSD and severe mental health challenges following his return from the Iraq war. Millionaire discusses the unexpected path that led her to become a mental health advocate, highlighting the importance of family support and creating awareness about PTSD. The conversation touches on her efforts to navigate the healthcare system, her determination to educate herself in psychology, and her advocacy work to change mental health laws. Millionaire also reveals her methods for self-care and balancing her roles as a caregiver and professional. The episode concludes with Millionaire's future vision for expanding her advocacy through a Congressional initiative and potential film adaptations, accentuating her mission to transform personal pain into purpose. BIO: Million Heir-Williams grew up in Long Island, NY. At the age of twenty, she moved to Los Angeles, California. She worked for Kaiser Hospital for twenty-six years in management. In 2004, she moved to Onslow County, where she served as Onslow County Commissioner and Vice President of the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce. Governor Pat McCrory appointed her to serve on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Council for Women. She and her husband had a house built in Texas, where they reside. Heir-Williams is a Certified Life Growth and Mental Health Coach and is the President/CEO of Effectual Life Coaching Enterprises. She has a proven track record in establishing successful, equitable relationships with everyone involved. Heir-Williams has many organizations that she is affiliated with, such as the American Psychological Association, Fellow of the North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership, Society for Collegiate Leadership & Achievement, Worldwide Association of Female Professionals, American Association of Christian Counselors, Citizens Commission on Human Rights International and the Honor Society. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Military Mom on a Mission Million's Books Thank you for tuning in to today's episode! We hope you enjoyed the discussion and found it both insightful and inspiring. Now, we want to hear from you! Share your experiences, questions, or ideas with us by leaving a comment or sending us a message on our website or social media channels. If you found value in today's episode, please consider subscribing to our podcast and leaving a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like yourself. And finally, don't forget to spread the word! Share this podcast with your friends, family, and colleagues who might benefit from the valuable content we offer. (Note: For listeners who may be struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help or reach out to a mental health support helpline in your country.) Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text Our children spend nearly one-third of their waking hours at school, presenting countless opportunities for positive interactions with trusted adults. In this episode of This Way Up, we discuss how the San Marcos Unified School District took this reality and turned it into an opportunity to dramatically expand mental health support for its students. Amid a growing mental health crisis and a mental health system struggling to keep up, the district—supported by the city of San Marcos —launched the 'Let's Face It Together' program. The initiative strengthened existing resources like counselors and social workers, while introducing new support strategies such as a crisis text line (741741), Care Solace to assist families in navigating mental health care, and wellness teams that visit homes to connect with students and their families. By focusing on building a sense of connection and belonging, the program aims to make every student feel cared for. This episode highlights the program’s profound impact, showing how a community came together to use school as not just a place of learning, but as a key source of support and care for students’ mental well-being. BIO: As the Student Services Director in San Marcos Unified School District, Christi Frias is a dedicated advocate for mental health and student well-being. Throughout her career, she has worked tirelessly to create and implement programs and services that support student mental health and well-being. She is deeply passionate about promoting healthy and positive learning environments that foster student success. Mrs. Frias has experience working with a variety of stakeholders, including students, parents, faculty, and community members, to create meaningful change. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: Let’s Face It Together: https://www.smusd.org/news/what_s_new/let_s_face_it__together_ Let’s Face It Together Resources: https://www.smusd.org/mentalhealth/teacherresources Let’s Face It Together Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZISx4Y2cC8 Crisis Text Line 714714: https://www.crisistextline.org/ Care Solace: https://www.caresolace.org/ If you found value in today's episode, please consider subscribing to our podcast and leaving a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like yourself. And finally, don't forget to spread the word! Share this podcast with your friends, family, and colleagues who might benefit from the valuable content we offer. (Note: For listeners who may be struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please seek professional help or reach out to a mental health support helpline in your country.) Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.

Send us a text In this lighthearted conversation between Janet Krebs and Andrea, they dive into the idea of parents as the CEOs of their families, leading with both courage and compassion. The discussion touches on the power of having a clear vision for your family, the importance of honest and open communication, and the deep connections we build with our children. Janet, who brings her wealth of experience as a consultant, coach, and former educator, shares candid stories and actionable insights on what it means to lead in the messy, beautiful world of parenting. They explore how recognizing our own strengths as parents can create a sense of confidence, the balance between having a long-term vision and being present in the moment, and how understanding our children's unique needs and communication styles is key. The conversation also underscores the importance of flexibility and empathy, especially when managing the diverse needs of our children. BIO: Janet is a speaker, author and a family facilitator …helps families adopt a leadership mindset and empowers them to cultivate confidence and self-reliance in themselves and their children. She has enjoyed a rich career in Consulting, Human Resources and Education. She spent over 14 years as Commander Krebs in a Space Flight Simulator where she impacted over 60,000 students. She is a 2X best-selling author and earned advanced degrees in Human Behavior and Development, Counseling Psychology and in Education. When asked her greatest accomplishment she will answer, without hesitation, her 2 adult children, Benjamin and Elisa. RESOURCES/ REFERENCES: https://www.janetkrebs.com/ Instagram @janetkrebs22 Support the show Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.