Forward To Joy

In this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Donella Dowdle about her transformative work in Trauma Touch Therapy. Donella shared her personal journey into this field and the experiences that led her to embrace a healing approach centered on the mind-body connection. She explained how Trauma Touch Therapy creates a safe, supportive space where clients can gently reconnect with their bodies and process trauma without becoming re-traumatized.What stood out to me most was how individualized the work is. Donella emphasized that each session is guided by the client’s needs, comfort level, and pace, empowering them to regain a sense of agency and awareness within their own bodies. We talked about the importance of body awareness in emotional healing and how many people benefit from learning to tune into physical sensations as part of their trauma recovery journey.Our conversation highlighted not only who can benefit from this therapy, but also why creating safety and choice is foundational to deep, lasting healing.Connect with Donella: Donella@healingtouchtherapeutics.com Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, I sit down with Ashley Fisher to talk about how embodiment tools can help unlock emotional release. As she shares her story, I’m struck by her honesty and vulnerability. She describes a powerful moment when she realized that the intense emotions she was feeling weren’t actually about the person in front of her—they were rooted in the pain of a past friendship.Listening to her, I’m reminded how often our emotional triggers have deeper origins than we realize. Ashley’s experience highlights the importance of slowing down, tuning into our bodies, and getting curious about what’s really underneath our reactions. It’s a beautiful reminder that when we’re willing to explore the true source of our feelings, we open the door to healing and real personal growth. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra is highlighting her conversation with Scottie Durett of Momplex. Scottie empowers women and moms to find meaning and purpose in their lives that is more than being a mom. In her conversation with Alexandra they discuss how no matter what life hands you, there is hope and possibility to find meaning and purpose. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Alexandra Wyman speaks with Rachel Gibbons, a consultant psychiatrist and researcher focused on suicide and bereavement. Rachel shares her unexpected journey into this field, driven by her experiences as a clinician facing the tragic loss of patients to suicide. They discuss the profound impact of suicide on both clinicians and families, the stigma surrounding it, and the importance of emotional resilience and support systems. Rachel emphasizes the need for ongoing inner work and therapy in the healing process, as well as the complexities of grief, blame, and the search for joy after loss. The conversation highlights the necessity of compassion in discussions about suicide and the challenges of navigating the fix-it mentality in mental health.Connect with Dr. Rachel: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rachel-gibbons-96620a51/ Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Scottie Durrett opens up about the challenges of motherhood, expressing the internal conflict between loving her children and feeling overwhelmed by the demands of parenting. She discusses the societal pressures to be a perfect mom and the toll it takes on mental health, ultimately advocating for the importance of self-care and acknowledging one's feelings. Connect with Scottie: Instagram: @scottiedurrettPodcast: Momplex https://www.soundoff.network/show/momplex-with-scottie-durrett/ Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alexandra chats with psychic and medium, Kim Moore, who shares her profound journey into the world of mediumship following the tragic loss of her partner. Kim discusses her initial skepticism, the signs she received from the other side, and the various ways spirits communicate with us. She explains the different types of psychic abilities known as the Claire's, and delves into what happens after death, emphasizing the continuity of connection with our loved ones. The conversation also touches on the importance of setting boundaries in mediumship and the unique experiences of working with children. Throughout the episode, Kim offers insights into the nature of energy, the significance of signs, and the healing power of love, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and understanding about life after death.Connect with Kim: Website: www.readingsbykim.comFacebook: Medium & Psychic Kim MooreInstagram: readingsbykimTikTok: ReadingsByKim Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Matt shares his journey into play therapy, influenced by his upbringing and family background. He discusses the importance of co-regulation, the role of parents in emotional development, and how children's behaviors often communicate their feelings. The conversation also highlights the significance of repair in relationships, the power of naming feelings, and the concept of interoception in understanding emotions. Matt emphasizes that unregulated emotions can lead to anxiety and poor relationships, and he concludes with practical advice for parents on nurturing emotional health in their children. Connect with Matt: www.fingertothemooncounseling.comwww.playtherapyconnection.comEmail: Matt@fingertothemooncounseling.comPhone: 970-626-7476 Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Forward to Joy, Alexandra reflects on the emotional shifts and energetic changes that come with the New Year, particularly as we transition into 2026. She discusses the importance of community, personal growth, and emotional awareness, encouraging listeners to contemplate what changes they want to make in their lives. Alexandra emphasizes the significance of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and understanding grief as part of the healing process. She invites listeners to join her on this journey of transformation and growth throughout the year. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this final episode of 2025, Alexandra reflects on a year filled with love and loss, emphasizing the importance of healing, finding joy in difficult moments, and the continuous journey of personal growth. She shares insights on letting go of expectations, protecting one's energy, and the significance of dreaming and setting intentions for the new year. The episode serves as a reminder to appreciate the journey and the lessons learned along the way. Connect with Alexandra on her website, forwardtojoy.com, or send her an email at alexandra@forwardtojoy.com. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra is highlighting her interview on the She Diaries podcast with Krista Gregg. The conversation focuses on resilience and misconceptions that can arise with a loss by suicide. Krista does a great job asking poignant questions to help create an understanding that loss is not always predictable. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra discusses preparing for the holidays and reflects on the past year She chats about exploring the importance of setting intentions rather than resolutions, the significance of taking time for contemplation, and the ongoing journey of managing grief. Alexandra also chats with her friend Alena about the upcoming holidays, tools to get through them and all the randomness that comes with preparing for the holidays. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Phil Weiss returns and introduces the EVOKE life planning process, which helps individuals align their financial goals with their personal values. The discussion also touches on the significance of building trust in financial advisory relationships and how life planning can aid individuals in overcoming loss and envisioning a fulfilling life. Phil shares insights on the emotional aspects of financial management, including feelings of shame and guilt, and highlights the importance of safety, security, and freedom in achieving financial well-being.Connect with Phil: Website: https://apprisewealth.com/Instagram: phweiss11Facebook: AppriseWealth Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartfelt conversation, Alexandra and Larry Carlat explore the profound journey of grief following the loss of a child. Larry shares his personal story of losing his son Rob and how it led him to write a survival guide for grieving parents. They discuss the importance of community, the role of writing in healing, and the unique challenges faced by men in expressing their grief. The conversation emphasizes the transformation that can occur through grief, the significance of maintaining connections with loved ones, and the moments of joy that can emerge amidst the pain. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra talks to Dr. Mark Sinyor is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto, Staff Psychiatrist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and lead of Sunnybrook’s Suicide Prevention Research Collaborative. He has developed a mental health program using Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azakaban for middle schoolers to learn distress management and healthy coping skills. Connect with Dr. Mark Sinyor: mark.sinyor@sunnybrook.ca Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra discusses navigating the holiday season while dealing with grief. She emphasizes the importance of creating new traditions, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Alexandra shares personal experiences and offers practical advice for managing emotions during this challenging time, encouraging listeners to find moments of joy amidst their grief. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Alexandra Wyman and Bijou Finney explore the transformative power of psychedelics in healing, particularly through microdosing. Bijou shares her journey from biohacking to becoming a psychedelic facilitator, emphasizing the importance of integrating various healing modalities. They discuss the significance of addressing grief and trauma, the necessity of personalized approaches to healing, and the empowerment that comes from trusting oneself. The conversation highlights the need for safe spaces in healing and the importance of integration after psychedelic experiences.Connect with Bijou: Instagram:@mushroommamasita Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this enlightening conversation, Alexandra Wyman and Kacy delve into the transformative power of astrology and its role in personal growth and self-discovery. Kacy shares her journey into astrology, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's natal chart as a roadmap for navigating life's challenges. The discussion covers the significance of planetary shifts, the twelve zodiac signs, and practical applications of astrology in everyday life. They explore the concept of surrendering to the process of change and the collective energy that influences us all. Ultimately, the conversation highlights astrology as a valuable tool for healing and understanding oneself.Connect with Kacy:Instagram: @kacylhowell Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Alexandra delves into the complex journey of acceptance following the loss of a loved one. Drawing inspiration from Mary Frances O'Connor's book, The Grieving Body, Alexandra shares her personal struggles and insights on how acceptance is not a linear process but a fluid journey. She explores the emotional roller coaster of grief, the pressure of societal expectations, and the importance of embracing each moment as it comes. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alexandra Wyman interviews her brother-in-law Bob, who shares his incredible journey of resilience and healing through chronic pain, addiction, and recovery. Bob discusses his experiences with multiple surgeries, the impact of chronic pain on his mental health, and the importance of therapy and support systems. He emphasizes the need for connection, purpose, and community in overcoming life's challenges, and offers encouragement to those struggling with similar issues. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Alexandra explores the complex relationship between grief and the stories we tell ourselves. She emphasizes the importance of understanding different perceptions and the role of empathy in navigating grief. Alexandra encourages listeners to reach out and connect with others, highlighting that we often project our own narratives onto others' experiences. The conversation serves as a reminder to be mindful of our perceptions and to foster open communication in times of hardship. Connect with Alexandra on her website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or send her an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠alexandra@forwardtojoy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Portions or topics on this show may be triggering. Please seek professional help or assistance if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices