The Fear Less Now: Recent Episodes
Sam Led
If you are looking for an easier way to approach fear, anxiety, and unhealthy habits from the inside out this podcast is for you. Listen beyond my words. Listen for a “feel good” feeling. The feel-good feeling and inner quiet are where the insights and wisdom come through. It is where you finally see how the mind really works and the illusory nature of thought. There are no techniques or strategies. So, sit back and relax and let me be your fearless insight and wisdom facilitator on the fearless now.
Today I had the honor of speaking with Sarah Iengo and Lixon Nelson of ACES. ACES (www.acesmiami.org) is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, youth, families, and underserved members of the community through education, employment support, mentorship, advocacy, and access to meaningful resources. Our mission is to help individuals build confidence, independence, and pathways toward long-term success. Our vision is to create a more inclusive community where every person has the opportunity to grow, lead, and reach their full potential.
Today I sat down with the talented Ezra Vancil (www.ezravancil.com). Ezra Vancil is a Texas singer-songwriter, author, entrepreneur, and recovery advocate whose life has been shaped by music, addiction, family, and restoration. His work has been recognized by the International Songwriting Competition, Kerrville New Folk, NewSong, and Unsigned Only, with songs featured on VH1, Discovery, and the BBC. After a destructive decade nearly cost him everything, Ezra rebuilt his life through spirituality, family, business, and music. His latest work is the 20-song double album Morning & Midnight (feat. Ezra's daughter Cozi), now available in a limited release, along with its companion book, Mornings & Midnights: Poetry & Writings.
You know how ADHD + abandonment wounds mix? It's rocket fuel for pain.
Rejection hits harder. Silence feels like danger. One "read" text and you're spiraling for days. But what if no one's actually abandoning you? What if it's just fast thought + old feelings moving through?
In this episode, we look at where that pain _really_ comes from… And how presence heals what time never could. This changed everything for me. It can for you too.
Mark Steiner built GigSalad (www.gigsalad.com/blog/meet-the-ceo-of-gigsalad) from zero to booking millions of events. But the real story isn't the hustle. It's what he saw his omnipotential underneath the noise of a mind that just works differently. And most importantly how Mark found peace inside chaos, why "hard" is just thought, and the mindset shift that made business easier.
Scott Lackey (https://scottlackey.com/product/wake-up-to-die-again-book/ built the "perfect" life: U.S. Army veteran, Ironman finisher, entrepreneur with a U.S. patent + multimillion-dollar company. From the outside, it looked like success. Inside? Something felt off.
Then life broke him open. Investors removed him from his own company. Identity cracked. Control slipped. And in that collapse, Scott found what no achievement could give him: truth.
This isn't a self-improvement episode. It's a self-dismantling episode. Scott doesn't teach you how to fix your life. He points to what was never real… so you can be who you're meant to be.
You know the pattern.
12 hours locked in. Zero food. Zero water. You're in the zone — building, creating, solving. It feels like a superpower.
Then it hits.
The crash. Brain fog. Exhaustion. Can't answer emails. Can't do dishes. Can't even think. And the shame voice starts: "What's wrong with me? Why can't I be consistent?"
Mind is never broken. It's thought-on-thought-on-thought. And thought always looks and feels real.
But here's the relief: We don't need better recovery strategies. You don't need to "fix" hyperfocus. We just need to see what's actually happening.
When we realize burnout is thought-created, not task-created, something shifts. The static quiets. Energy returns. Without a planner. Without a hack. Without forcing it.
ADHD paralysis isn't laziness. It's your nervous system slamming the brakes.
We break down why "just try harder" backfires for ADHD brains, and why the freeze you feel is actually 100% thought + 0% truth. This episode exposes the real culprit behind getting stuck: not your ADHD, but the belief that you should be unstuck right now.
After 50 years of silence, Darlene Lekowski (www.darlene-lekowski.com/) found her voice—and won. In this powerful episode, Sam Led talks with Darlene, a survivor, Amazon #1 best-selling author, and advocate who transformed childhood sibling sexual trauma into a platform for healing and truth. Darlene shares how resilience isn't something you build from nothing. It's already within you, waiting to be uncovered once the weight of shame, fear, and buried trauma begins to lift. She opens up about the legal battle she faced after speaking out, the impact of carrying PTSD in silence for decades, and the moment she realized that surviving wasn't the same as truly healing.
In this episode we unpack why hopelessness isn't proof of brokenness it's just thought in overdrive. We explore how the ADHD mind gets trapped in cycles of self-doubt, burnout, and "what's the point," and how that loop is fueled by taking our thinking too seriously. Underneath the noise is a quieter wisdom that's always there. This episode is a reminder that we don't have to fight hopelessness to feel free.
Ever feel like you're running on autopilot? Reacting, spiraling, or self-sabotaging before you even realize it? In this episode, Jozi Radus (WWW.JoziRadus.com IG: Jozi_Radus) joins us to break down the invisible patterns driving our choices. We explore how unconscious reactions keep us stuck in fear, self-doubt, and old stories, and how bringing awareness to them creates space for something new. Jozi shares how to interrupt those loops, reprogram limiting beliefs, and start making conscious choices that actually align with who you want to be.
Ever feel like ADHD is messing with your friendships? In this episode, we dive into how understanding the Three Principles can be a game-changer for navigating ADHD relationships. We explore how seeing things differently can shift your connections, reduce friction, and help you show up authentically. From miscommunications to feeling like you're always 'on', we'll discuss practical ways understanding can help you navigate ADHD friendships with more ease and less stress. Whether you're neurodiverse or supporting someone who is, this conversation is about finding more flow in relationships.
In today's episode I has the honor of speaking with the briliant ADHD entrepreneur Ken Deckinger.
Ken Deckinger is an entrepreneur, photographer, documentary filmmaker, and founder of Big Photo Hunt, an online photography community built to help photographers grow through feedback, connection, and creative momentum. Earlier in his career, he was the co-founder and CEO of HurryDate, a pioneering speed dating company that grew from zero to 150 events a month across three countries, later expanded into online dating, and was ultimately acquired by Spark Networks, parent company of JDate and other dating platforms.
Ken also created Startup Cuba, which began as a documentary series about Cuban entrepreneurs and later evolved into a media company focused on building connection between Cuban and American citizens. Originally from South Florida, he now lives in Weston, Massachusetts, after 15 years in New York City, with his wife and three daughters. His work today sits at the intersection of storytelling, entrepreneurship, community, and photography.
In today's episode I sat down with Gabe Fisz, Gabe is a freelance graphic designer and ADHD content creator behind the YouTube channel Hey Fidgety. Through honest storytelling, humor, and personal experience, he talks about the real side of living with ADHD, including impulsivity, emotional overwhelm, and the feeling of being misunderstood. His goal is to break down stigma around ADHD and help people realize they are not broken, their brains simply work differently. Through his content, he shares relatable moments and practical ways people can better understand and manage life with ADHD.
https://youtube.com/@heyfidgety https://www.tiktok.com/@heyfidgety
In today's episode I have Glenn Sturm in the studio. Glenn (www.glennsturm.com) is a 17-year cancer survivor, four-time bestselling author, and a decorated military officer with over three decades of service. He's battled incurable cancer for 16 years and does not just talk about survival. He shows us what it means to reshape our identity after everything changes. Glenn's transition from a top attorney and military leader to a relentless advocate for cancer patients is a story we won't forget. His message is not about cliches; it is about practical emotional survival, including what no one tells us, how to protect our energy, and the critical role of hope. He knows what it's like to hear "you have cancer" and what it takes to fight for joy every day.
In this episode of "The Fear Less Now," we dive into the complex relationship between ADHD and impatience, exploring how the 3 Principles – Thought, Consciousness, and Mind – offer a fresh perspective on this common challenge.
We'll examine how our thoughts can create a sense of urgency and restlessness, leading to impatience and frustration. By understanding that our thoughts are just thoughts, not necessarily reality, we can begin to break free from the cycle of impatience and cultivate a greater sense of calm and focus.
Join us as we explore:
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How the 3 Principles can help reframe ADHD and impatience, shifting from a deficit model to a more compassionate understanding
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The role of thought patterns in fueling impatience, and how to recognize when we're caught in a thought loop.
Key Takeaways:
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Impatience is a common experience for many with ADHD, but it's not inherent to the condition
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By recognizing the thought patterns driving impatience, we can begin to shift our response to challenging situations
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The 3 Principles offer a framework for understanding and working with ADHD and impatience, rather than trying to suppress or fix them
Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to discover how the 3 Principles can help you or someone you know navigate ADHD and impatience with greater ease and compassion.
In this episode of "The Fear Less Now," hosts Jamie Pastrano and Brittany Moser join me to discuss the launch of Synchrony's innovative AI-powered social support tool, Jesse. Designed specifically for neurodivergent adults, Jesse offers real-time conversation coaching to help reduce social anxiety and foster deeper connections. The conversation will delve into the pressing issue of social isolation and loneliness among autistic individuals and those with other neurodevelopmental differences, particularly in early adulthood when traditional support structures often become less available. Recent research highlights the increasing prevalence of loneliness during this life stage. Jamie and Brittany will explore how Jesse, while not a replacement for therapy, can act as a supportive coach to build foundational skills such as social confidence, resilience, and connection. By strengthening these everyday skills, Jesse can play an important role in fostering well-being and creating the conditions for meaningful, lasting friendships. The discussion will also touch on the potential benefits and limitations of AI in supporting neurodivergent individuals, drawing on insights from various sources. For instance, AI can help with script practice, document drafting, and confidence building in social interactions. However, it's also important to consider the risks of over-reliance on such technology. Tune in to this insightful conversation to learn more about how Jesse and similar tools might be shaping the future of support for neurodivergent adults.
In this heartwarming and insightful episode, I sit down with one of my mentors, Dr. Dicken Bettinger, to explore the liberating wisdom of the 3 Principles. We dive into the common experience of Adhd'ers (and non-Adhd'ers) getting caught up in our thoughts, believing they're real, and how we can gently find our way back to a more peaceful, present state.
Key Takeaways:
- How our thinking creates our experience, and how we often mistake our thoughts for reality - The simple yet profound understanding that we're not our thoughts, and how this realization can set us free - Practical examples of how we've both gotten caught up in thought loops, and how we've learned to recognize and shift out of them - The beauty of realizing we're not alone in this – we all do it, and it's okay. "
https://3principlesmentoring.com/bio.html
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. John A. King, a survivor, author, and advocate who's dedicated his life to helping others break free from the chains of trauma. As the founder of the Give Them A Voice Foundation, John shares his remarkable journey of healing and resilience, offering practical insights and hope to those who've experienced childhood sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Join me as John opens up about his path to recovery, the power of brotherhood and community, and the importance of speaking truth to silence. We'll dive into his work with law enforcement, veterans, and community leaders, and explore the impact of trauma on individuals and society.
With his memoir and fictional works on the horizon, John's message is clear: it's never too late to heal, and your story can be a catalyst for change. Don't miss this conversation that's sure to inspire, uplift, and empower.
In episode #177 of "The Fearless Now," Sam Led and Dr. Brody Miller dive into the complex relationship between AI and brain health. Dr. Miller shares insights on how AI can both support and potentially harm brain health, particularly in areas like neuroplasticity, cognitive function, and mental wellness. On the one hand, AI can be a powerful tool for brain health, offering personalized interventions, cognitive training, and support for conditions like anxiety and depression. However, excessive AI use, particularly screen time and social media, can lead to increased stress, decreased attention span, and even changes in brain structure. Dr. Miller highlights the importance of mindful AI use, emphasizing the need for balance and boundaries to protect brain health.
We are constantly fighting to focus, to stay on track, to just get it all done. The weight of ADHD can feel crushing, like we are stuck in an endless loop of frustration and self-doubt. But what if the very thing we are trying to do - control our ADHD - is the thing that's keeping us stuck? In this episode, we dive into the paradox of surrender in relation to ADHD. We'll explore how letting go of control doesn't mean giving up - it means giving us permission to be free. Free from the constant struggle, free from the shame, free from the thought that we're not enough. It's time to stop to start trusting the wisdom that's already within. We are so much more than our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It's time to remember that.
In today's episode I speak with Dr. Albert Bramante and we explore how recognizing the power of thought can unlock new possibilities for mental wellness and personal growth.
Dr. Albert Bramante holds a distinguished Ph.D. in Psychology and is a certified hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner. With a deep-rooted passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind, Dr. Bramante has dedicated his career to exploring and mastering various therapeutic techniques. His extensive training with renowned hypnosis instructors has further solidified his expertise in the field.
Join us in Episode 174 as Eric Bumpus, a multifaceted entrepreneur, coach, and dad, shares his journey with AuDHD. From overcoming pain and addiction to building a thriving fitness community in Austin, Texas, Eric opens up about how AuDHD has shaped his path. Tune in for inspiring insights on homeschooling, fitness, and embracing neurodiversity.
Life's challenges can leave your mind feeling frazzled and far from peaceful. Join MJ Murray Vachon, LCSW (www.mjmurrayvachon.com) and I as we share practical insights and strategies to calm your mind and regain inner peace. In this episode, you'll learn:
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How to recognize and manage stress triggers
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Simple yet effective mindfulness practices to calm your mind
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Practical tips to reduce anxiety and increase feelings of calm
Tune in to discover how to quiet your mind and find peace in the present moment.
MJ Murray Vachon is a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 31 years of experience in teaching Mental Wellness curriculum, known as Inner Challenge. She has worked with individuals, couples, and families, accumulating more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions. MJ is also a certified EMDR therapist and was recognized as the Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.
Join me as we explore the complex world of ADHD and catastrophic thinking through the lens of the Three Principles. Discover how our minds can create worst-case scenarios and how this affects our daily lives. We'll dive into: - The nature of thought and how it can spiral out of control - The difference between thoughts and reality - How understanding the Three Principles can help break the cycle of catastrophic thinking - Practical insights on applying these principles to find calm and clarity in the midst of chaos.
Join me for an inspiring conversation with Sarie Taylor, a gifted Three Principles coach and cancer survivor, as she shares her remarkable journey of healing and growth. Sarie opens up about how the Three Principles helped her navigate the challenges of cancer and find inner peace, resilience, and transformation. In this episode, we'll dive into: - The power of the Three Principles in healing and transformation - Sarie's personal experience with cancer and how the Three Principles helped her cope - Practical insights on applying the Three Principles to everyday life - The importance of mental well-being and self-awareness. https://www.worldwidewellbeing.co.uk/
In this powerful and inspiring episode, I sit down with Randy Spelling (www.randyspelling.com) - author, speaker, and full-time life coach—to explore his remarkable journey from the bright lights of Hollywood to the deeply fulfilling path of healing and helping others. As the son of legendary TV producer Aaron Spelling, Randy grew up surrounded by fame, privilege, and pressure. But despite having what many dream of, he found himself struggling with identity, addiction, and a lack of inner peace. Randy opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to leave the entertainment world and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. He shares how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for profound healing—and how that personal growth inspired his mission to guide others.
As a coach, Randy now works with clients worldwide, pointing them not just toward surface-level success, but toward deep alignment, authenticity, and purpose. He emphasizes the importance of self-connection, emotional intelligence, and inner fulfillment over external achievements. His approach combines practical strategies with intuitive guidance, helping people reconnect with who they really are beneath the roles they play."
Key Takeaways:
- Why success without self-awareness can lead to emptiness
- The dangers of chasing validation in external achievements
- How Randy helps clients uncover their true identity and align with their inner values
- The role of presence, mindfulness, and spiritual connection in real transformation
- Practical tools to begin your own healing journey
Join me as we explore the transformative power of understanding the mind-body connection with special guest Chana Studley (www.chanastudley.com), an Academy Award-winning Hollywood professional turned Three Principles Practitioner. Chana shares her remarkable journey of recovery from severe PTSD and chronic pain after three violent muggings, and how she now helps others overcome similar challenges. Chana Studley is a renowned expert in the field of trauma, addiction, and mental health, with over 30 years of experience as a counselor, coach, and Three Principles Practitioner. Her books, including "The Myth of Low Self Esteem" and "Painless," offer valuable insights into her journey and the principles that have guided her work. Tune in to this inspiring conversation as Chana shares her wisdom and expertise on how to move from surviving to thriving, even in the face of chronic pain and adversity.
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Stephanie Carmody, founder of Second Act Sessions (www.buzzsprout.com/2465869) to explore what it truly means to start over—and thrive. Stephanie shares her personal journey of reinvention, how she turned uncertainty into opportunity, and why your “second act” can be your most powerful chapter yet. Whether you're changing careers, rediscovering passions, or rebuilding after a setback, this conversation offers real talk, practical wisdom, and the encouragement you need to take that next bold step. Tune in for a candid look at resilience, purpose, and the freedom that comes with starting fresh.
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with the one and only Mavis Karn, (www.maviskarn.net) renowned coach and educator rooted in the Three Principles understanding of mind, thought, and consciousness. Based in Minneapolis, Mavis brings decades of wisdom and a grounded presence to the conversation.
Together, we explore "The Secret"—not as a concept to be discovered, but as something already within us. Mavis shares deep insights into how clarity, peace, and resilience are innate, not earned. She reflects on her work with individuals from all walks of life—from young people to those in the criminal justice system—and how recognizing the simplicity of the mind’s design can lead to profound transformation.
Whether you're new to the Three Principles or familiar with their teachings, this conversation offers a gentle yet powerful reminder: you're not broken, and you never were.
In today's episode the emotional swings often seen in ADHD ("ADHD mood") can be better understood not as fixed traits or flaws, but as moment-to-moment experiences created through thought. * Thought: Individuals with ADHD often experience fast-moving, intense thoughts, which can lead to rapid mood shifts. According to Banks, moods are not caused by external situations or diagnoses, but by our own thinking in the moment. * Consciousness: This principle explains how we become aware of our moods. For someone with ADHD, increased awareness can create space between stimulus and reaction, allowing for more perspective and less identification with fleeting emotional states. * Mind: This represents the deeper intelligence behind life. Regardless of how chaotic moods may feel, the Principle of Mind suggests that there is an innate well-being underneath — untouched by the storm of thought.
In today's episode I spoke with brilliant communication and leadership coach, Salvatore Manzi (www.salvatoremanzi.com). Salvatore and I explore how neurodiverse people (like you and me) can lead in all aspects of our lives through clear and compelling communication.
In today's episode I spoke with Nina Tallering (www.mindspringmentoring.com). Nina is a gifted coach and therapist living in the Pacific Northwest. We discuss how to "do down well" when going through hard times. Nina shares the teachings of the "three principles" with her client and points them back to their innate wellbeing and mental health "underneath the noise."
Nina has worked as a therapist in Portland, ME with children with autism, and on Oahu, Hawaii with children and their families. Her next career was as a Green Building Consultant, in which she worked with commercial building project teams to create more sustainable buildings. Her next career was as a full-time mom. She loved being at home with my kids, Eva (now 15) and Jacob (now 19). Nina volunteered in the schools, and supported all their activities and interests. Now, with Nina's kids in a new stage of life and needing her in different ways, she is returning to counseling and coaching. Nina has a strong desire to give back to the world and truly believes that if we can help people live in a better state of mind, this will have a ripple effect and help to create a better world for everyone.
In today's episode I spoke with recurring guest, "gut microbiome whisperer" Dr. Christine Bishara. Dr. Bishara (www.fromwithinmedical.com) explores how the gut influences brain development and how it influences adulthood.
Christine Bishara, MD is the founder of From Within Medical, a medical wellness practice that places emphasis on the mind-body and gut-brain axis to prevent and manage disease.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, time and time again, Dr Bishara has discovered that the connection between these systems plays a significant role in disease prevention and management, but it has not been adequately addressed.
Consequently, her therapy involves a multidimensional and personalized approach that addresses multiple physical and biological factors, while focusing on strengthening the body’s immune system. This includes assessment of individual gut health, determination of antioxidant levels, and determination of neurotransmitter deficiencies.
Today I had the pleasure of speaking to Dr Brody Miller. Dr. Brody Miller, is a neurorehabilitation specialist, 2x best selling author, researcher, brain surgery survivor and thriver. His focus is to help leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs, naturally overcome lingering post concussion symptoms, so that the can get back to work as fast as possible. His ultimate vision is to help over 1 million people heal their brain and live their best lives.
Today, we’re talking with Ricardo Vasquez, an entrepreneur, direct response marketer, and the founder of www.youthfulagingsecrets.com
Since losing his father in 2023, Ricardo has been on a personal mission: not just to optimize his own health and longevity but to help others do the same.
Through his evidence-based email newsletter and podcast, Ricardo interviews superagers and top experts to extract their wisdom, their inspiration, and most importantly, actionable insights. His goal? To cut through the pseudoscience and surface real, implementable practices that help people live healthier, longer lives.
Ricardo’s work is fueled by heart, by loss, and by a relentless drive to make sure others don’t get misled on their health journey.
In today's episode I had the great opportunity to speak with comedian Galina Rivina (www.galinarivina.com) about her ADHD diagnosis and how ADHD has helped her be a better comedian.
Galina Rivina is a comedian and writer based in Los Angeles. Originally born and raised in Ukraine, she made it to the U.S. just in time to not have an irksome soviet accent. However, childhood as an immigrant has an undeniable influence on her writing - as does being a woman, navigating life as a millennial, and the day-to-day havoc of human existence. It’s suspected that the lingering Chernobyl exposure gave her one-liners and short form storytelling that bit of the razzle dazzle.
She has been performing stand-up all over the country for nearly a decade. Headlining in comedy clubs across the US and abroad, including the 2022 Cleveland Comedy Festival, the 2024 Netflix is a Joke Fest, and most recently opening on the road for Preacher Lawson. She has written for renowned standups, including Nikki Glaser and wrote for the 2019 Comedy Central Roast of Alec Baldwin. She also hosts a weekly podcast; Galina Rivina Podcastina.
In today's episode I had the chance to speak with my friend, colleague transformative coach Nikon Gormley. Nikon and I explore the power of thought and the brilliant design of our mind's thought and thinking system.
About Nikon Gormley:
Nikon Gormley is a Transformative Coach, Speaker, Entrepreneur, Taekwondo Master, Educator and Executive Education Faculty Member at leading Universities in Thailand.
In a world filled with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, Nikon's expertise lies in being a safe port in the storm, helping individuals navigate their challenges from a place of clarity, peace and ease in their personal and professional lives.
As a Transformative Coach, Nikon is known for guiding leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners to tap into their greatest resource: their innate wisdom, health, and capacity for insight.
Founder of Innerspark Group (Coaching & Training) Founder of Super 7 Taekwondo Founder Junbi Kids (Fun Fitness For Kids)
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/njgormley Website: https://www.nikongormley.com
In this insightful episode, I sit down with sobriety coach Courtney Anderson (www.courtneyrecovered.com) to explore the intersection of ADHD and sobriety. Together, we dive deep into the unique challenges individuals with ADHD face when navigating recovery, from impulsivity and restlessness to managing focus and cravings. Courtney offers valuable advice on coping strategies that can help those with ADHD maintain sobriety, highlighting the importance of routine, structure, and specialized support. She also discusses how traditional recovery models may need to be adapted to better serve those with ADHD, and provides actionable tips for both individuals and their support systems.
Whether you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD and sobriety, this episode is filled with practical tools, personal stories, and expert guidance that can help make the recovery journey a little easier.
In today's episode we explore the gift of sensitivity with professional seer, healer, and teacher Jim Rajan. A Former award-nominated producer and director at MTV-UK Networks and other TV production companies in London, Jim Rajan has now been running a successful worldwide practice as a Professional Seer, Healer and Teacher for over 17 years (www.jimrajan.com). Jim’s method ‘The Healing Ceremony’ have been called mesmerising and has changed the lives of countless people around the world. The foundation of his work is in guiding sensitives and intuitives to unlock their potential and transform their suffering.
Jim has a dedicated global following of over 9000 people on the meditation app InsightTimer for his Guided Visualisations, Healing Music and monthly Live Visualisation Workshops. A self-taught musician, composer and producer, Jim has produced work for artists in London UK, Canada and North America as well as his own albums. His work is currently available on Spotify, iTunes and InsightTimer.
In today's episode I sat down with Anna Tsui (https://www.annatsui.com/) to explore the true gifts of the neurodiverse mind. Anna Tsui is not only an international serial entrepreneur, coach and bestselling author of Shadow Magic she is also a fellow brilliant ADHD'er. Anna developed a specialized process to identify an individual's unique and innate genius. Anna is a leader in bringing higher dimensional awareness to everyday life and business development. Her passion is helping people wake up to their intuitive and creative abilities so they can access a new level of reality and see the world as their playground.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Aaron Turner (www.onethought.com) and Rabbi Shaul Rosenblatt (www.3puk.org/team/shaul--rosenblatt). We explore what is possible when we see our natural ability to live and work in a clearer, healthier state of mind. About Dr. Aaron Turner: Aaron founded One Thought to bring an appreciation of this understanding to the mainstream. He has also been developing and providing practitioner training since 2014. Aaron has been a partner in designing and presenting the largest Three Principles conference worldwide since 2010. He is a founding board member of the 3PGC and currently its president. He has sat on a number of government advisory groups. He is a published author, international speaker and lives with his family in London. Inspired by the Three Principles discovered by Sydney Banks and twenty years of pioneering work with individuals, organisations and businesses, One Thought’s programmes provide a working understanding of our natural ability to live and work in a clearer, healthier state of mind. A better understanding makes a big difference; leading to real, sustainable change. About Rabbi Shaul Rosenblatt: Shaul founded Aish UK in 1993 and Tikun UK in 2006. Since 2017 he has been running the Rabbinic Training Academy, developing a more human and more wise generation of Jewish rabbinic leadership. Shaul is also founder and co-host of the 3PUK Conference, the largest Three Principles conference in the world.
In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked world of physician mental health. Dr. Christine Bashara (www.fromwithinmedical.com) and Dr. Michael Foti (www.mailchi.mp/mindsplit/wellness-wake-up-med-school-dr-foti) share their personal experiences and insights on the unique challenges faced by medical professionals. From the pressures of medical school to the emotional toll of patient care, we explore the factors that contribute to physician burnout, anxiety, and depression. We also discuss the cultural and systemic barriers that prevent physicians from seeking help, and the importance of creating a supportive and stigma-free environment for medical professionals to prioritize their mental well-being.
When food goes bad and stinks we don't consume it. We take it out to the trash. The same goes for our "stinky thoughts." In this episode we explore what it is like to let go of our "stinkin' thinking."
ADHD comes down to thought moving through us (that is always changing). Listen to learn more.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with NY Times best selling author JD Barker. Join us as we delve into the world of neurodiverse storytelling with author JD Barker. Diagnosed with autism, JD shares his experiences navigating the writing industry while being on the spectrum. Our conversation explores: - JD's journey to self-discovery and embracing his autism - How neurodiversity influences his writing style and character development - Insights into his latest projects and upcoming releases Resources: https://jdbarker.com/
In today's episode I had the pleasure to speak with returning guest Ronan McGovern. In today's episode Ronan and I explore what it is like to thrive with ADHD in the workplace. Ronan is not only a fellow ADHD'er but is the perfect example of what's possible underneath the noise of our neuro-machinery and see our omni-potential. Ronan and I explored how to be successful in life with ADHD. Ronan McGovern grew up in Dublin without knowing that he had ADHD. This was diagnosed in 1996 while he was a master’s student at Stanford Business School. Ronan worked at Price Waterhouse Dublin, where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant. Then, Ronan attended King's Inns for four years where he graduated as a Barrister-at-Law.
In 1995 he started his studies at Stanford Business School. Since Stanford Ronan has worked in AIB Bank, in Dublin, Ireland. In 2021, Ronan initiated a voluntary project in collaboration with Stanford Business School (named Rebuild), recruiting 50 other volunteers to write and publish a 60 page landmark report on Neurodiversity in the workplace.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with the great Peter Shankman. Peter is a renaissance man. He is also a fellow ADHD'er. Mr. Shankman is a brilliant ADHD'er who has helped many neurodiverse professionals see their omnipotential with compassion and grace. Whether it’s the CEO who needs help empowering his employees to create magical customer moments, the Fortune 100 that needs a better understanding of neurodiversity in the workplace, or the billion dollar brand wanting to better keep up with the times, Peter gets the call to come in and help make things better. Peter is one of the most sought after speakers on the customer economy and neurodiversity in the workplace. Peter has keynoted events for corporations ranging from startups to Fortune 50s in more than twenty five countries around the world. He speaks at both digital keynotes and in-person keynote presentations.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Chaya Mallavaram (www.sparklaunch.org). She is not only a fellow brilliant ADHD'er but also a true change agent in our adult ADHD community. Chaya's journey shifted dramatically with her son's ADHD diagnosis in 2020, revealing the broader impact of neurodiversity on individuals and their communities. Understanding the effects on parents, educators, and peers and their reciprocal influence ignited a renewed commitment to advocating neurodiversity. As the Founder of Spark Launch, Chaya brings a deeply personal perspective to ADHD support and advocacy. Her mission is to empower the neurodivergent community in homes, schools, and workplaces through coaching and training. Regardless of neurodivergence, every mind possesses remarkable potential and warrants acknowledgment and respect.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Ronan McGovern. Ronan is not only a fellow ADHD'er but is the perfect example of what's possible underneath the noise of our neuromachinery and see our omnipotential. Ronan and I explored how to be successful in life with ADHD. Ronan McGovern drew grew up in Dublin without knowing that he had ADHD. This was diagnosed in 1996 while he was a master’s student at Stanford Business School. Ronan worked at Price Waterhouse Dublin, where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant. Then, Ronan attended King's Inns for four years where he graduated as a Barrister-at-Law.
In 1995 he started his studies at Stanford Business School. Since Stanford Ronan has worked in AIB Bank, in Dublin, Ireland. In 2021, Ronan initiated a voluntary, project in collaboration with Stanford Business School (named Rebuild), recruiting 50 other volunteers to write and publish a 60 page landmark report on Neurodiversity in the workplace.
In today's episode we explore the nature of a hyper-aware, overthinking high speed ADHD mind and what happens when we (innocently) allow our highspeed neural machinery get the best of us.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Kobi Russell. Kobi is not only a fellow ADHD'er (albeit a brilliant ADHD'er) but is the dictionary definition of a "change agent." Kobi and I explore why many ADHD'ers puruse careers and passions of being of service to humanity.
Kobi Russell is the outreach coordinator at Science Training Encouraging Peace (STEP). STEP advances careers and fosters enduring relationships between Israelis and Palestinians from the West Bank or Gaza by funding stipends for science students who work in pairs (an Israeli and a Palestinian per pair) for the full length of an MS, Ph.D. or MD degree at Israeli universities (learn more at www.step-gtp.org). Kobi has a BA in International and Global Studies from Brandeis University and eight years of experience in conflict resolution/transformation and Israeli-Palestinian peace-building.
In today's episode I sat down with the brilliant Adam Sietz. Broadway star, movie and television star, voice actor, beloved comedian, public speaking coach, and best selling author. Adam has done it all. He also has ADHD. And once Adam saw underneath the noise (of his noisy ADHD mind) he saw his omnipotential. And the many accomplishments (see above) is the result. This is his inspiring story. About Adam (www.adamsietz.com) A multi-faceted and multi-talented personality, Adam has performed on Broadway three times. He does Stand-Up Comedy, sings professionally and plays numerous instruments: Drums, Harmonica and Guitar being his favorite. Very quick-witted, Adam trained extensively in long/short form improvisation. In 1996, he co-captained his team in taking the Meaningless Cup, plus, as a bonus he was elected by his peers to play on the All Star dream team at the CLA National Improvisational Invitational Appearing in over 100 national and regional commercials led him to larger roles including: 6 X on NBC's Law & Order(s) and a Current voice cast member spot on MTV's "Celebrity Death Match". His film credits include Woody Allen's "Celebrity" and most recently Adam was again asked to join the cast of Allen's 98 Fall film project (Untitled) to be released in the late1999. An Emmy Award winner in 1986, Adam is also involved in television production and promotion. ADAM SIETZ BIO Brief Version Beginning his entertainment career at the young age of 9, Adam wrote, co-directed and starred in his own original Third Grade school play "Yes there is a Santa Clause". He made sure to incorporate everyone in the class and of course He cast himself (a young Jew) in the role of Santa Clause. After a 10 year production career (An Emmy Award winner in 1986) Adam began his path to entertaining the people. A man of many voices, Adam is one of the most versatile voice talents in NYC. Very quick-witted, Adam trained extensively in long/short form improvisation. In 1995, he co-captained his team in taking home the Meaningless Cup, plus, as a bonus he was elected by his peers to play on the All Star Dream team at the National Improvisational Invitational. Appearing in over 35 national and regional commercials led him to larger roles including: NBC's Law & Order and a Current voice cast member spot on MTV's "Celebrity Death Match". His film credits include Woody Allen's "Celebrity" and most recently Adam was again asked to join the cast of Allen's 98 Fall film project (Untitled) to be released in the late 1999.
In today's episode I had the honor of speaking with the one and only Dr. Jeffrey Gurian (www.comedymatterstv.com). Dr. Gurian is an ADHD "doer." He shares his brilliant technicolor journey as a physician, award winning comedy writer, best selling author, and mental health advocate. Dr. Gurian is the perfect example of what is possible when an ADHD'er sees their omnipotential underneath the noise of a very brilliant, albeit very noisy ADHD mind. About Dr. Jeffrey Gurian: I’m one of the only doctors ( and ADHD sufferers) with a long-standing career in the comedy world. Spent 20 years on the Board of The Association for Spirituality and Psychotherapy, 12 years at NYU as a Clinical Prof. in Oral Medicine and Oro-Facial Pain, and 25 years in practice as a Cosmetic Dentist. When I was tested for ADHD the doctor said to me that I must have had to work 10 times as hard as everyone else, which was true. However I managed to graduate at the top half of my class, #54 out of 126 students. I face tremendous confusion and fears but never let them stop me, which is what inspired me to write my Happiness Series of books. I have 8 books now. Five on comedy (one with Chris Rock), and 3 on Happiness, mindset and changing negative thinking to positive thinking.
In this compelling episode, returning guest Nina Manolson and I delve into the remarkable story of resilience and strength in the face of two significant challenges: living with ADHD while navigating a world tainted by antisemitism.
About Nina Manolson
Nina has over 25 years experience in the health and wellness field and is best known for her compassionate, yet practical nourishment approach. She helps women go beyond deprivation and dieting and live in a vibrant body they love.
Learn more about Nina on her website www.ninaManolson.com
Check out Nina’s engaging and warm speaking style here: ninamanolson.com/ninas-video-tips
Negative thinking is a common feature of a brilliant yet overwhelming "hit me all at once" brilliant ADHD mind. It feels real because our thoughts are connected to our feelings that our personal mind is blaming on our outside situation (innocently). Yet when we see the illusory nature of our made up thought and thinking "neural machinery" we have free will not to identify with it or see any truth in our temporary thought storms. We see our resilience when we allow the emotional "thought storm energy" to move through us. And when we stop identifying with it and allow it to settle (when caught up) it frees us from suffering. Once we see it's an "inside/out" experience we always feel better. 100% of the time.
In today's episode we explore ADHD as a "thought based" experience and why suffering is optional once we learn how to use our brilliant ADHD mind to work for us (and not against us).
In today's episode I had the pleasure of welcoming back the brilliant Matt Roberts. Matt is a former international high jumper. Matt's career started slowly - at 19 he had a pb of a mere 1.95m, not quite his head height. Recognising the need to exploit every potential margin of gain he searched for the perfect mindset over his 15-year career. Matt made the top 20 UK all time list and just 3cm short of the Olympic Silver 2 years later. Tragedy struck when Matt ruptured a disc in his neck, leading to surgery—an injury that would end many careers. Yet he started again from scratch - eventually clearing 2.25m before retirement. Matt's persistence and resilience were realized through the discovery of the Three Principles understanding of psychology. It was during a coaching conversation that an insight changed his life. Matt now shares this understanding with athletes and business people to guide them to their own source of flow and peak performance.
When we begin to notice the illusory nature of the "ADHD experience" (our mind is making up) we begin to spend less time in the "ADHD house of horrors" and more time in presence. But our brain tries to convince us that the experience the mind is making up is real because it connects "thought" to "feelings" which affects our physiology. The more we let go and drop the "experience" the mind is making up (in this moment) the less time we get attached to it. The less we get attached to it the less we suffer. The less we suffer the more we see that every ADHD'er is one thought away from insight, well-being, and a nicer life. In this moment (as you read this). And the next.
In today's episode I have the pleasure of welcoming back Dean Hall (www.thewildcureway.com) to the show. Dean and I explore how movement may help harness the superpowers of the brilliant ADHD mind. About Dean Dean has been a licensed clinical therapist and coach for over 30 years. Astonishingly, in that time he has conducted over fifty thousand face-to-face, one-hour sessions. Besides being a best-selling author, and highly sought-after speaker, Dean is also a two-time cancer survivor, widower and two-time world record-setting extreme distance swimmer. He is the first person to swim the entire 187-mile length of Oregon’s longest river, the Willamette River, (which he did as an active cancer patient) in 2014, and Ireland’s longest river, the River Shannon (180 miles), in 2017. This much time spent immersed in the flow of mighty rivers has changed Dean’s life in many dynamic and miraculous ways. His Willamette River swim threw Dean into radical remission unexpectedly healing his leukemia without chemo or radiation while easing his trauma and grief from losing his wife fifteen days before their thirtieth anniversary. Buoyed by his firsthand experience of the healing power of nature when his lymphoma worsened and doctors once again pushed him to do chemo and radiation Dean chose to try Forest Bathing first. Dr. Qing Li’s research on the proven efficacy of time spent in forests and how it boosted NK (Natural Killer) cells and the immune system by over two-hundred and fifty times for a period of two weeks gave Dean the courage to decide instead for a weekly regimen of forest bathing instead. In May of 2015, he started spending all day once a week forest bathing deep in the Mt. Hood Wilderness and by March of 2016 he was declared cancer free. These gifts of natural healing pushed Dean to make it his organization, The Wild Cure Way, whose mission is to encourage the world to get out of concrete jungles, manmade boxes and away from digital devices and dive into wild waterways and venture into deep forests as a form of authentic deep healing and, oddly enough, environmental protection. He believes it’s impossible to swim in wild waters or amble through ancient forests without falling in love with them and like Jacque Cousteau used to say, “You protect what you love.”
In today's episode I welcome back Laura Carney, author of the best selling book My Father's List. Laura and I explore how writing the book and experiencing her dad's bucket list (after his death) was the catalyst to seeing her own inner resilience.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking to critically acclaimed music producer and artist Chris Redding. Chris's disruptive contributions to music is rooted in his commitment to pushing creative boundaries and challenging conventional notions in popular culture. Chris consciously utilizes sound frequencies to resonate with neurodivergent listeners, reflecting his personal journey as a member of a neurodiverse family. Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 13 and experiencing auditory and visual aspects of synesthesia, Chris has firsthand knowledge of the challenges and misconceptions faced by individuals with neurodivergent traits. His son's diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) further fuels his commitment to creating a world that embraces different neurotypes. Checkout Chris's brilliant work here: www.linktr.ee/chrisredding
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Julie Gandy. Julie is an author (A Jersey Girl Find's Peace), ordained minister, and has a passion for helping businesses exceed in fostering a positive work environment, which enables employers build loyalty and retention among employees. In 2009 Julie became a Licensed HeartMath® Provider, enabling me to provide coaching on the scientifically proven methods of stress reduction developed by HeartMath, Inc.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of sitting down with the great Dean Hall. Dean has been a licensed clinical therapist and coach for over 30 years. He is also a best selling author (www.thewildcureway.com). Dean and I explore how harnessing his ADHD superpowers of curiosity and inner resilience helped heal himself from cancer by being the first person to swim the entirety of the 187 mile Willamette River. Some say Dean has lived multiple lifetimes in his 63 years. I have to agree. Come join me as we explore Dean's remarkable life and how he saw his inner resilience during the darkest periods of his life. Besides being a best-selling author, and highly sought-after speaker, Dean is also a two-time cancer survivor, widower and two-time world record-setting extreme distance swimmer. He is the first person to swim the entire 187-mile length of Oregon’s longest river, the Willamette River, (which he did as an active cancer patient) in 2014, and Ireland’s longest river, the River Shannon (180 miles), in 2017.
This much time spent immersed in the flow of mighty rivers has changed Dean’s life in many dynamic and miraculous ways. His Willamette River swim threw Dean into radical remission unexpectedly healing his leukemia without chemo or radiation while easing his trauma and grief from losing his wife fifteen days before their thirtieth anniversary. Buoyed by his firsthand experience of the healing power of nature when his lymphoma worsened and doctors once again pushed him to do chemo and radiation Dean chose to try Forest Bathing first. Dr. Qing Li’s research on the proven efficacy of time spent in forests and how it boosted NK (Natural Killer) cells and the immune system by over two-hundred and fifty times for a period of two weeks gave Dean the courage to decide instead for a weekly regimen of forest bathing instead. In May of 2015, he started spending all day once a week forest bathing deep in the Mt. Hood Wilderness and by March of 2016 he was declared cancer free.
These gifts of natural healing pushed Dean to make it his organization, The Wild Cure Way, whose mission is to encourage the world to get out of concrete jungles, manmade boxes and away from digital devices and dive into wild waterways and venture into deep forests as a form of authentic deep healing and, oddly enough, environmental protection. He believes it’s impossible to swim in wild waters or amble through ancient forests without falling in love with them and like Jacque Cousteau used to say, “You protect what you love.”
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with brilliant ADHD fitness coach Al Hyle. Al is an ADHD fitness coach who's turned his life around. He transformed his negative habits, leaving behind drugs, alcohol, and bad choices, to instead chase the positivity of workouts, nutrition, and self-improvement. Now, Al is on a mission to help others with ADHD do the same.
In today's episode I had the opportunity to speak with Gina Moffa, LCSW. Gina is not only a gifted therapist in NYC but also author of the critically acclaimed new book, "Moving On Doesn’t Mean Letting Go: A Modern Guide to Navigating Loss." Gina and I explore why grief can be exceptionally difficult for the ADHD brain and why grief is an essential part of the human experience (and powerfully transformative) when we learn how experience grief in a healthy way.
My debut book Beyond ADHD is available on Amazon tomorrow 10/3 on Amazon. In my book, I share my own experiences with ADHD and how I found a sense of ease and peace despite my noisy ADHD mind. I was born with a neurodiverse brain. I have been living with the diagnosis of ADHD for over twenty years and I thought I needed fixing. I spent decades suffering with feelings of incompetence because my mind worked differently. I'm today's episode I explore what is possible when we take out hands of our "ADHD thinking" and pivot to presence.
Seeing your ADHD Inner Wisdom" is from my book, "Beyond ADHD" which will debut on Amazon (and where books are sold) in October. Get instant access to my top 10 playlists To Help an ADHD brain prosper & thrive by going to: www.samledconsulting.com/adhd-playlists?fbclid=PAAaYrWKyToZ923q68Mx83WzSGpLWbhAR07lDCjeUCC59Bo0F6IIfHaz0y1-8. ADHD inner wisdom manifests in the most common and uncommon places. ADHD overstimulation, distraction, paralysis, and impulsivity is all alerting us to the truth that's not found in our thinking. They are all uncomfortable love letters (they are supposedly to be) to pivot us to presence. Lean into the feeling. Let it move through you. See the illusion. This will automatically pivot you to presence. It's only when we misinterpret these uncomfortable "ADHD signals" as a problem does it lead to suffering. It's just temporary disturbed thought moving through you. There is no meaning in it. No "there there." The truth to who you are is not found in your ADHD.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Jill Collins. Jill is not only an inspirational speaker, aspiring author and life coach but she also has persevered in her life despite her ADHD diagnosis. After facing the sudden loss of her husband of 14 years, Jill embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led her to rediscover her purpose - uplifting others by connecting them to the resources, experiences and communities they need to thrive. One could say Jill is the truest definition of human resilience. Jill launched Jill Collins Connections, centered around her signature “P.I.P.E.R. Effect” framework for connection. Through her upcoming book "The Power of Connection: Reinventing Yourself After Loss” and her YouTube channel and community, Jill teaches practical tips for overcoming life’s transitions and living your “Summit Life.”
It took me nearly half a lifetime to learn that the story around ADHD is false. We have been conditioned to see it as a disorder. A dysfunction. A broken brain. But we were simply never taught how to optimize our high-precision ADHD equipment. It's like learning how to spell, drive a car, play tennis, or master arithmetic. We were never taught how to harness the supercomputer called ADHD so it works for us and not against us.
In today's episode I had the unique opportunity to speak with returning guest, best selling author and spiritual teacher Moshe Gersht (www.moshegersht.com). Moshe and I discuss what is possible when we embrace reality exactly as it is (in the present moment of everyday life) without being distracted and influenced by the daily dose of noise our mind innocently makes up (our judgments, beliefs, and conditioning) about our current life situation. Moshe's new book, "The Three Conditions" debuts soon. You can go to his website: www.moshegersht.com
to learn more.
About Moshe Gersht:
Moshe Gersht, talmudic scholar, spiritual teacher, Wall Street Journal and USA Today best Selling author of the book, It's All the Same To Me. For over a decade Moshe has had the blessing of connecting with some of the greatest minds, learning the treasures of profound Torah wisdom, and experiencing the light and love of Kabbalah and Chasidus. Moshe and I dive deep into the understanding of the human psyche and the innate intelligence and wisdom that lies underneath our concept driven world of make believe created by our personal mind.
In today's episode addiction I am honored to welcome addiction specialist Dr. Robb Kelly on the show. Dr. Robb and I explore the challenges associated with addiction and the ADHD mind. Dr. Robb Kelly is a renowned Addiction Expert. Born and raised in Manchester, UK, who is eccentric, no holds bar, successful, and places his patients first kind of man. Robb is Meadows Trained in Trauma and holds a double Ph.D. It is necessary for the family to work along with the patient- we uncover the family chaos and dynamics to better resolve addiction.
Robb has overcome homelessness, alcohol dependency, trauma, PTSD and a whirlwind of events to be the "Gordon Ramsay" of the addiction treatment world. Before Robb succumbed to addiction and mental health issues, he played bass guitar at Abbey Studio with Queen, David Bowie, and Elton John. He is an accomplished musician, and the money he made helped him attend Oxford University to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology. Robb experienced a spiritual awakening on the cold streets of Manchester while homeless and in dire straits.
Robb appeared on The Doctors CBS show, The Funky Brain podcast, and a San Antonio, Texas news segment about opioids and Purdue Pharma. Recently Robb appeared on the addiction celebrity podcast, Knockin Doorz Down. Robb is a beast in the addiction treatment world. Also, Robb is lecturing at the University of Texas at San Antonio about Addiction and recovery.
In today's episode we explore the the true super powers of the ADHD mind under the noise of our thinking.
In today's episode I welcome back Laura Carney, author of the new book "My Father's List." Laura and I share what it truly means to embrace the "ADHD experience."
About Laura
My Father's List: How Living My Dad's Dreams Set Me Free is about Laura's six-year mission to finish all 54 items from the bucket list of her late father, who was killed by a distracted driver when she was 25. Her book is a grief memoir, but it's also about self-discovery. And it's out just in time for Father's Day. Laura Carney has been on NPR, Tamron Hall, CBS Mornings and the Drew Barrymore Show, as well as NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt and various other outlets to talk about the book. It's also been covered in the Washington Post as well as People.
In today's episode I had the opportunity to speak with Courtney Anderson, sober coach and host of the critically acclaimed podcast, Sober Vibes (www.courtneyrecovered.com). Courtney and I discuss her approach coaching women in recovery with ADHD.
In today's episode I am excited to welcome back reoccurring guest of the show, women's body peace coach, Nina Manolson. Nina and I explore how healthy eating is different in women with ADHD.
In today's episode I explore the what is possible what every adult ADHD'r really wants in their professional and interpersonal relationships.
In today's episode I have the pleasure of speaking with author and investigative journalist Laura Carney (www.myfatherslist.com/Laura). Laura and I explore how ADHD has helped her finish her late father Mick's 54-item bucket list in six years and ADHD is a gift, not a deficit. Laura's first book is coming out from Post Hill Press, distributed by Simon & Schuster, on June 13. My Father's List: How Living My Dad's Dreams Set Me Free is about Laura's six-year mission to finish all 54 items from the bucket list of her late father, who was killed by a distracted driver when she was 25. Her book is a grief memoir, but it's also about self-discovery. And it's out just in time for Father's Day. Laura Carney has been on NPR, Tamron Hall, CBS Mornings and the Drew Barrymore Show, as well as NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt and various other outlets to talk about the book. It's also been covered in the Washington Post as well as People. I was interviewed by CBS Sunday Morning, which will air before the launch.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Theo Necker. Theo and I explore the importance of movement and how it is beneficial for the brilliant, dopamine thirsty ADHD mind. Theo is a multi-disciplinary mover from Minden, Germany, who has a diverse practice encompassing acrobatics, tricking, yoga, Capoeira, hand-balancing and parkour. Theo is a SWF Mover and the author of our first two Movement Guides - the Press Handstand and the Pancake Stretch. You can check out Theo's practice on Instagram @mindsetoftheo
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Salome Masghati about the role hormones and diet play in understanding the etiology and treatment of ADHD in women. Dr. Salome Masghati is a board certified Women's Health specialist with a special interest in functional medicine. She completed her residency in OBGYN and completed a fellowship in gynecological surgery. Her passion for functional medicine started during her residency and she has since trained under the best mentors to perfect her skills. She particularly enjoys helping patients with resolving chronic disease, hormonal imbalances, underlying toxicity and nutritional deficiencies. Dr. Masghati believes that optimal health can not be achieved without evaluating lifestyle and environmental factors. She is committed to finding and addressing the root causes of the individual illness so that every person can achieve optimal wellness.
In this episode I had the unique opportunity to talk to Kevin Spirtas. Kevin is not only an Emmy award winning actor and writer he also is a man who believes in everyday miracles. Kevin shares his life journey as nothing more than a collection of miracles.
Kevin Spirtas is most recognized around the world as Dr. Craig Wesley from NBC’s Daytime Drama: Days of Our Lives, and the cult classic film sequels: Friday the 13th – Part VII: The New Blood, and Wes Craven’s: The Hills Have Eyes – Part II. Before departing the soap in 2000, Spirtas played his DAYS character opposite Matt LeBlanc’s Dr. Drake Ramory on FRIENDS: The One That Could Have Been-Part 1. In 2016, Spirtas went on to win the Indie Series Award for Best Actor in a drama, (of which he also earned an Emmy nomination) for his role as Dominic Delacorte on the digital drama series: Winterthorne. Some of Spirtas’ Broadway credits include: A Chorus Line, Meet Me In St. Louis, and Hairspray, and The Boy From Oz (Stand-by for Hugh Jackman).
When we believe our overwhelmed, overstimulated, impulsive ADHD thinking it's like putting our finger in the electrical socket or hitting ourselves into head. That's suffering. Its meant to be uncomfortable. To protect the brain from itself. And to pivot you to presence.
Today I had the pleasure of speaking with Nina Manolson, Nationally Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (www.ninamanolson.com). Nina I talk about easy to prepare (and healthy) meals that quickly insatiate the "I need it now" ADHD mind. Nina is no stranger to the Fearless Now and is one of my favorite reoccurring guests to the show.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with the brilliant Dr. Michael Amster. Michael Amster, MD, is a physician and awe researcher, writer, and teacher at the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. With twenty years as a pain management specialist, he is currently the founding director of the pain management department at Santa Cruz Community Health. A practitioner of meditation for over thirty years, he is also a certified yoga and meditation teacher. He splits his time between clinical work, research on awe, teaching mindfulness, and leading awe-inspiring retreats around the world.
Exhaustion from overthinking our thinking is a common feature of a high speed, albeit brilliant ADHD mind. There are ways of looking at exhaustion from a different perspective. Feeling exhausted is supposed to feel uncomfortable. It's supposed to get your attention. Exhaustion is a mind alerting us to a temporary low "state of consciousness" Exhaustion is alerting us we are going to fast. Temporarily. That's why it's important to ignore the stories mind is creating about feeling exhausted. Simply backing off our thinking pivots us to presence. Pivoting to presence will decrease our emotional suffering in the moment. And then we are off into a whole new experience. In the fearless now.
Underneath the very noisy sped up ADHD mind is the gift of discernment if you pay attention to the space when our thinking naturally falls away (and we suddenly get quiet and pivot to presence) and we are on to a whole knew experience. Pay attention to that space. It's in that space that we see the illusory nature of the ADHD "Netflix movie" being played in real-time in our mind. It's in that space that we truly see that we are in charge of our "cognitive pallette." It's the moment when we see we are not our anxiety, sensory overwhelm, or intrusive thoughts. It's in that space we embrace the gift of discernment.
I'm today's episode I had the honor of speaking with Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky. Yakov and I explore the psycho-spiritual gifts of our "humanism" when we take the time to slow down to the speed of life and finally accept that wisdom isn't found outside of us or in others. We are wisdom. Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. He is the founder of Mind Body Therapy, a private group practice in Chicago and a popular speaker and author on the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and philosophy. He is the author of a new book, Attached: Connecting to Our Creator, a Jewish Psychological Approach, (mosaicapress.com/product/attached/). Yakov also has a podcast called Attached that is available on all podcasting platforms.
The ADHD brain is not a problem we need to fix. It's understanding how the ADHD mind works and what it is really telling us (and alerting us too) when we are overstimulated, distracted, and have impulsive thoughts. Our ADHD experience is simply pointing us to pivot to presence. Nothing more.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Paul Julch, managing director and lead stylist for Urbanite | Suburbanite (www.urbsuburbstyle.com). Paul and I explore the challenges ADHD adults typically experience with their wardrobe, most specifically fabric and color sensitivity.
It is my pleasure to welcome back the wonderful Lily Sais to the show. Lily and I explore what thriving in the middle of a health crisis looks like when we see our innate human resiliency and wellbeing underneath the ruminative noise of our auto-tragic stories our mind is telling us is true.
About Lily
Lily Sais (www.peace-from-within.com) is a former school psychologist now full time mental health practitioner. She used to struggle with anxiety, ocd, and panic but is now a human being at peace with living life. She started her company Peace From Within in 2020 to help others rediscover their own wellbeing. Today Lily helps people around the world reconnect to their natural peace of mind, resiliency, and wellbeing through sharing the principles of Mind, Thought and Consciousness.
In today's episode I am excited to welcome back body-peace coach Nina Manolson to the show. Nina and I explore how the ADHD mind impacts eating habits. About Nina Nina Manolson helps women over 40 end their war with food and make peace with their body. She is a Certified Psychology of Eating Teacher and Board Certified Holistic Health Coach, with 20 years experience in the Health and Wellness field. She also holds a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology. She’s the founder of NinaManolson.com and the Nourished Woman Nation.
Nina offers individual sessions and group programs. She is also the founder of the Nourished Woman Nation – a community of women who are stepping into feeling truly good from the inside out.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Zane Landin. Zane Landin is the founder of PositiveVibes Magazine, which is a digital magazine dedicated to telling authentic stories about mental health, wellness, and inspiration. Zane attended the first-ever Mental Health Youth Action Forum in Washington, D.C., where he met President Biden, Selena Gomez, Dr. Murthy, and Dr. Biden. Out of hundreds of applications, 30 young advocates across the country were selected to advocate for mental health. He is a passionate storyteller who writes for the Power of Positivity and Entrepreneur about wellness, psychology, and culture. He has been featured on over 50 platforms like Seek the Joy Podcast, Forbes, and Coming from the Heart Podcast.
Once we understand the nature of thought and how our mind works we realize we never have to do anything to quiet the ADHD mind if we trust the perfect design of the brain's "self settling system." We can still thrive with a noisy brain despite how uncomfortable it feels in the moment. Listen to the complete episode to learn how to thrive with a very busy, very sensitive high speed ADHD mind.
Dave Shine is a self-expression Coach and content creator who guides others to experiencing their innate well-being through the power of Self-expression. Dave shine has been looking in the direction of universal truth for over half a decade through many modalities and techniques, eventually Dave realize that the truth he was looking for was in every breath he took. Now Dave is on a mission to help one person experience that impacts of realizing their true nature.
In today's episode I am honored to welcome back Katie Beecher to the show. Katie is a brilliant medical intuitive and author of the critically acclaimed book, "Healing from Within." Katie and I explore what is possible when we look beyond the glitchy nature of our mind's conditioning and belief systems and what is possible when we pay more attention to the intelligent design of quiet insight and intuition that is always waiting to be discovered underneath the noise of our temporary noisy ADHD brain.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking WITH award winning trauma expert Danny Greeves. Danny share his personal experience with with anxiety, low self-esteem, and stress and couldn't form healthy relationships due to various traumas. It wasn't until his own transformative experience working with a trauma therapist where he discovered his lifelong calling of helping others navigate through trauma and grief. USA TODAY has recognized Danny as one of the top coaches alongside people like Jim Kwik. Danny is a childhood and relationship trauma expert best known for using groundbreaking psychological techniques to help his clients move on from painful past trauma, boost confidence, conquer self-expression, and achieve their dreams. He has worked with thousands of people and corporate clients, including Google, where he provided their employees with mindset training.
Danny has authored multiple books, including 'Accelerated Trauma Resolution', the step-by-step guide to overcoming trauma.
ADHD is never a problem we need to fix. Insight, wisdom and common sense is under the noise of our brilliant, albeit a temporarily busy mind. And yes it's that simple. Listen on to learn more.
In today's episode I had the chance to speak with the wonderful Wendy Blum. Wendy and I explore the bountiful gifts of having a neurodiverse mind and what is possible when we embrace our innate mental health and trust that we don't have to look to to others for wisdom. Wisdom lives in all of us. About Wendy (www.wendyblumcoaching.com) Wendy is a licensed mental health counselor and principles coach in private practice. Her approach to coaching is to deeply listen, guide and have authentic and honest conversations. Humor, laughter, tears of all kinds and questioning are all encouraged. Wendy is not afraid to go to the tough places with her clients.
In today's episode I had the pleasure of speaking with Kate Roberts. Kate is not only a brilliant coach and educator but she is also co-host of one of my favorite podcasts, "Under the Noise" with co-host Wynn Morgan. Kate and I share how we can truly explore a deeper truth to who we really are when allow our habitual thought created reality to fall away when we pay attention to when we naturally pivot to presence.
About Kate (www.katerobertscoaching.com)
Kate started her career in the field of education, inspiring young people to move beyond their circumstances and see what’s possible for their lives. She influenced thousands by creating a space where they could be the best versions of themselves, as they progressed toward future endeavors. Kate has learned from the top coaches in the field in various areas including family life, business, finance, psychology, relationships, mindfulness, etc.
Today I had the opportunity to speak with David Richman (www.david-richman.com). Over the last 10 years, David has completed over 50 triathlons, including 15 Ironman-distance triathlons (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, 26.2-mile run), more than 50 runs longer than marathon distance, including several 24-hour runs, running 85 miles in Mexico in the heat of the summer, running 104 miles straight from Santa Barbara to Manhattan Beach, and most recently biking 4,700-miles in just six weeks as he met with the participants of his upcoming book exploring the emotional side of cancer. As a former sedentary, over-weight, smoker, David knew that he needed to focus not on what others wanted out of him, but on what he wanted out of life. Through lessons learned in business and sport, David introduces the concept of the “middle of the pack” and discusses how to get more out of ourselves than ever imagined. He applies this concept to life and business and adds value to the people he works with coming from the perspective of the “middle of the pack.”
In today's episode I spoke with my lifelong friend, Mike J. Rosenfeld. Mike shares his heroes' journey from former gang member to his struggles with drug addiction to becoming a world renowned Peak Performance Coach, Breathwork therapist and the FLOW CODE ambassador to the United States. Mike has been featured as a high performance expert alongside Shaquille O’Neal and Mike Ditka in the Documentary “Beyond the Game." Maya Angelou interviewed Mike on Oprah Winfrey radio show and has also been featured on major networks including CBS, NBC, CNBC, ABC, and Showtime. Mike believes everyone has the same purpose in this world: to be the healthiest, happiest and most powerful version of themselves. His mission is to help others achieve their mission.
In today's episode I had the honor of speaking with the brilliant Dr. Amy Johnson. Dr. Amy is not only host to one of my favorite podcasts, "Changeable," she is also author of the critically acclaimed book (that is the most dogeared book on my bookshelf), "Just a Thought." Amy and I put on our experiential "white lab coat" and explore the never ending gift of innate wellbeing beyond the "myopia" of our thought created world.
About Dr. Amy Johnson (www.dramyjohnson.com)
Amy Johnson, PhD is a psychologist, coach, author, and speaker who shares a groundbreaking new approach that helps people find lasting freedom from unwanted habits, anxiety, and self-doubt via insight rather than willpower.
She is the author of Being Human, The Little Book of Big Change: The No-Willpower Approach to Breaking Any Habit, and Just a Thought: A No-Willpower Approach to End Self-Doubt and Make Peace with Your Mind. In 2017 she opened The Little School of Big Change, an online school that has helped thousands of people find freedom from anxiety and habits and live a more peaceful life. Amy also shares the no-willpower approach in her top-rated podcast, Changeable, and she’s trained over 70 coaches in her Change Coach Training Program. She has been a regularly featured expert on The Steve Harvey Show and Oprah.com, as well as in The Wall Street Journal.
In today's episode I had the pleasure sitting down with returning guest (and one of my favorite coaches and humans), the wonderful Rob Cook. Rob and I explore the stories we make up in our head, a.k.a., "the causes of no one," in order to align with our self created, insecure egoic templates that innocently serve and protect us from a phantom problem and made up conflict. Once we become aware that we are making up our reality every second of our day we are more aware the illusory nature of our thought created human experience. About Rob: Rob Cook (www.imrobcook.com) is a decorated Air Force Veteran, he is a brilliant Speaker, Host & Coach, and Founder of unFIT the brand. Born and raised in the housing projects of Birmingham, Alabama, Rob sought to create a brighter future than what awaited many young Black men who grew up there. He joined the United States Air Force, where Rob became a decorated combat veteran. After 21-years of active duty service he retired, moved to the Los Angeles area to transition into civilian life. Rob became a certified life coach through Supercoach Academy, discovering an ideal balance between the mental and physical realms in his work as a coach. As the founder of unFIT, he offers a fresh approach to thriving in the whole experience of life through coaching, training, workshops, and speaking events for start-ups, non-profit organizations, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in between.
ADHD rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) can feel like the world is coming to an end when we feel rejected, criticized (or self-criticism), or teased by family, co-workers, or friends. Most of the time it's our own negative self talk and self loathing that is activated when we are given feedback (constructive or otherwise) from our boss, coworkers, and loved ones. It can (innocently) take us down and get us stuck in emotional quick sand (albeit temporarily) as most people don't understand how much effort it takes for an ADHD'r to get to school, work, and most importantly get the day started. Once we understand what our overwhelmed thinking is really telling the less it will sabotage our piece of mind, and most importantly, our productivity during the day.
In today's episode I had the unique opportunity to speak with two brilliant coaches and thought leaders in the principles community, Wyn Morgan, wyn@wynning.co.uk and Kate Roberts, kate@katerobertscoaching.com. They also happen to host one of my favorite podcasts, "Under the Noise" available on all podcast platforms. Kate, Wyn and I explore what is possible when we pay attention to the 'deeper part of us' the moment our busy thinking falls away and we are truly present to "what is."
In today's episode I speak with mental health advocate and Chicago-based artist Tracey Messlein Newport.
Tracey has privately sold and donated dozens of paintings over the years, and one of her paintings, “reVeriE,” was featured for ADHD Awareness month in October 2021 (Psychiatric News). “ Tracy discovered her talent and love of painting after learning how to harness the tremendous brain of an ADHD brain.
In today's episode I have the honor of speaking with Zak Sandler and Lenna Jawdat. You may remember Zak, the uber talented Broadway composer and mental health advocate and spokesperson for NAMI. Lenna Jawdat LICSW, RYT is a trauma therapist, yoga teacher, and Reiki master in private practice at Supportive Embodied Therapy, where she practices psychodynamic and body-based therapies through a social justice lens. She believes that healing happens through the body, brain and breath and is passionate about making these tools accessible to all. She has received advanced training in EMDR therapy, sex therapy, restorative yoga and yoga nidra. Lenna also happens to be Zak's fiance. The three of us dive deep into the notion that every thought we have, (whether good or bad) gives us the power to chose what thoughts we want to bring to life in the world (or not). Sometimes even the darkest most negative thoughts create the most beautiful music that can heal the world.
In this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with reoccurring guest of the show, the great Dr. Stacy Berman (www.stacyberman.com/). Dr. Berman and I explore the resilient nature of our psychological immune system and simple ways to strengthen our "psychological immunity." Many people got to know Stacy Berman by getting their asses handed to them at one of her Stacy’s Bootcamp sessions in Central Park. A pioneer in the fitness industry, Stacy created the first all year outdoor bootcamp in NYC back in 1999. Called a “NYC fitness icon” by Forbes Magazine, Stacy trail-blazed the way for the global boutique fitness craze we see today.
It was during her rise in the fitness arena and her own that Stacy realized spiritual and mental healing is not only as imperative as physical wellness, but that they are irrevocably intertwined. This began her work in psychoneuroimmunology. Stacy now holds a PhD in Natural Medicine, is a Shaman of the Hopi tradition, works with Plant Medicine, is a movement and somatic specialist, sex expert, a Reiki Master, trained in Bioresonance Analysis of Health, ACMOS Method, and Compassionate Inquiry practitioner. Stacy has studied under Dr. Pillai, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dr. Amit Goswami, Dr. Gabor Mate’, MD, Dr. Baskaran Pillai, Dr. Thomas Sculz, MD and Dr. Bruce Lipton. Stacy has over twenty six years of experience in the health, healing and wellness industry where she worked with a broad spectrum of people from celebrity Chef Bobby Flay to triathletes to business people.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Nina Manolson. Nina is a certified holistic health coach and nationally board certified health & wellness coach (NBC-HWC). She is also author of the book Feed Your Kids Well in a World That Doesn’t: An everyday guide to making healthy food happen in your home and beyond. Nina has worked with women and wellness for more than 25 years. Nina believes our body is the book of your life. By learning to read your body’s symptoms and messages, you will have access to your wisest teacher.
You can help Brandon purchase backup generators and other emergency supplies to help support the ongoing effort to save Ukrainian lives by donating funds to: 🌎 www.paypal.me/enveten917 🇬🇧 20-11-39 33343847 🇸🇪 Swish 0763465261 🇨🇦 E transfer jenmitchell@rogers.com In today's episode I have the honor of speaking with volunteer combat medic Brandon Mitchell whose ambulance was recently hit by a Russian landmine while evacuating Ukrainian civilians in the Donbas. Brandon has served in Ukraine for six months. Mr. Mitchell is the purest example of a true hero (although he hates being called a hero) who risks his life to save Ukrainian civilians from the ongoing onslaught of Russian bombing raids in the Donbas region. Brian has successfully fundraised for three four wheel drive transport vehicles and one ambulance, and is currently fundraising for generators to provide heat and lights for the coming winter in Donbas region.
Being okay when your mind is going too fast (and temporarily caught up) is not a requirement. It’s not the ticket to freedom. Yet it leads to less suffering. The brain doesn’t care how uncomfortable the "experience" of a mind going really fast. But it is just thought. And experience is just experience. It's thought rising and falling. The more we see the illusion and the more "okay" we are with illusionary nature of a very fast mind the more we see it's not a big deal. And “okay with” is also experience and it's also part of the illusion called thought. Yet your mind will convince you otherwise.
In today's episode Narado Powell, Scott Gazzolli and I the mind/body/spirit connection and the important role it plays in mental health. Narado Powell is host of the critically acclaimed top 1% health and wellness podcast, "Matter Over Mind. Narado is a Certified Lumen Metabolic Coach & carries 7 fitness and nutrition certifications from the International Sports Sciences Association. Scott Gazzolli is the host of the Apple top 500 listener to podcasts," Causing The Effect." Scott has always had the urge to help others and believes his podcast can transform people’s perspectives and limits. Scott lives, works and podcasts from Brooklyn, New York and is available for speaking engagements.
In today's episode I had the honor of speaking with success coach Klarissa Paradis. Klarissa is passionate about helping people create a life they love and goal-get beyond their wildest imaginings. Her work and techniques have led her to be known as the Success Alchemist and they have been implemented by small businesses, law firms, solo-preneurs. Klarissa has a diverse professional background including marketing, leadership, real-estate, youth and child resiliency programming, community engagement, program management, theatre, and the service industry.
On today's episode I have the pleasure of speaking with Ashley Gonor. To say Ashley is a busy woman is an understatement. Ashley is an empowerment coach, host of the critically acclaimed podcast called "Uncover Your Magic," and mom to two wonderful daughters. Ashley coaches young adults to create a mindset that empowers and inspires them to live their best life! Ashley is on a mission to empower millions of young adults to learn the tools to equip them to live a life with confidence, where they know that they can be, do or have anything!
I had the honor of sitting down with the great Thomas Leamy. Thomas is not only a gifted principles coach, successful entrepreneur, and citizen of the world, he is also a man with a heart of gold. Thomas Leamy is a global citizen - having travelled to more than 50 countries. His experience connecting with diverse groups of people helped him realize how similar we all are - regardless of nationality, culture or wealth. Thomas spent 10+ years working with high level executives and government officials around the world in the nation branding industry. He led 15 country scale projects and became a sought after country director in this field. During this time, his passion for understanding the psychology of high performing leaders emerged. After several coaching and training certifications, Thomas now helps individuals, teams and SMEs understand how they too can perform at their best and reduce the burden of stress. He is originally from Ireland and leads High Performance Strategy Europe (HPSE) as a business psychology practitioner and trainer. Thomas currently lives in Portugal with his wife and is completing an MSc in business & organizational psychology.
I recently had the honor of sitting down with Avigail Gimpel. Avigail is the author of HyperHealing –The Empowered Parent’s Complete Guide to Raising a Healthy Child with ADHD.Avigail Gimpel, M.S., is a special educator, a family practitioner, and a mom of six children diagnosed with ADHD.
As her students struggled with ADHD symptoms and her own children were diagnosed with ADHD, she took a deep dive into the research (turning up unexpected results), studied and applied the best programs available, and developed many interventions of her own.
This book is the result of over twenty-five years of research, development and application of cutting-edge intervention programs for her clients, children and hundreds of students. HyperHealingis your complete ADHD coaching program and parenting guide in one book.
I recently had the honor of sitting down with the brilliantly gifted Broadway pianist, Zak Sandler. Sandler has played piano on Broadway for Wicked, Mean Girls, Motown, and The Color Purple. His original musical about his mental health journey, Inside My Head, premiered at the NY Theatre Barn, was selected as a semi-finalist at the O’Neill Theater’s National Music Theater Conference, and presented at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage. Zak revised the show as a writer-in-residence at the Kennedy Center’s REACH page-to-stage festival in January 2022. He is touring the show - which includes a group discussion - to colleges, high schools, mental health and non-profit organizations, medical schools, companies, and anyone else who wants to host this inspiring, life changing event. Zak has won several music awards including the Fenno Heath Award for writing the new Yale song, the Neva Greenwood award for writing a symphony in 8th grade, the Mount Vernon Piano Competition (playing “Rhapsody in Blue” with the Mount Vernon Orchestra in 8th grade), and was selected as a composer for the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project at Northwestern (a mixture of a thrilling week of writing, and a deep depression).
Zak graduated from Yale with a BA in music composition in 2008 - two years after his exhilarating and terrifying first psychotic episode - in part thanks to the excellent medical care, and psychotherapy, from a favorite practitioner in New Haven.
Beyond musical theater, Zak is an avid mental health activist, speaking about his mental condition on “This is Actually Happening” (podcast with 45K+ plays), Jaison Thomas’ Brand Identity Podcast, and “Moments of Clarity” (radio show with 12M+ listeners). In 2018, he won the Young Leader Award from the New York State chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and is a featured speaker with This is My Brave, RespectAbility, and the JED Foundation.
ADHD is probably one of the most misunderstood so called "disorders" in the DSM-5. Once we understand that ADHD is not a broken brain but a high performance brain that just works differently. Once we learn how to harness the true gifts of a neurodiverse ADHD mind by understanding how mind truly works (not what we have been conditioned to believe) we will reduce unnecessary suffering amongst kids and adults diagnosed with ADHD by well meaning mental health professionals.
In today's episode I sat down with the wonderful Katie Beecher. Katie Beecher, MS, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Medical and Emotional Intuitive with over thirty years of experience. In 2022 Katie's book, "Heal from Within," was released by St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan and Yellow Kite Books. Katie shares a revolutionary, customizable approach to holistic health that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Readers will learn to be led by their own intuition as they move towards healing that encompasses body, mind, and soul.
In today's episode I had the honor of sitting down with Dominic Zenden. Dominic is a renowned auric profiler, best selling author, and host of the acclaimed podcast, "Twisted and Misunderstood." Dominic believes that truth is individual to who we are, what might believe could be the same as you even if we come across the same truth from different angles. Truth has to feel right or resonate with us to become when we believe in. So many versions of 'truth.' Dominic's own beliefs start and end with deep thought, do not dismiss anything or embrace until he senses the understanding first. To assume or follow blindly is lazy and confusing, an endless trail of other people's thoughts that would never resonate because they do not belong to you. Following is easy, thinking takes practice. There are no big or small questions, all questions are equally as important, just some questions have more profound meanings. Dominic's beliefs are structured and supple, as new information becomes available he wants to understanding and grow and expand, knowledge is unlikely to have limits.
In today's set episode I sit down with reoccurring guest (and friend of the show) the one and only Dwight Hurst. Dwight is a gifted psychotherapist who has worked in the mental health field since 1999, in hospitals, residential programs, and outpatient clinics. Dwight and I share the importance of staying in the conversation about the gift of thought and thinking and how it can point us in the direction of wisdom and presence or (if we innocently get caught up in our dystopic thinking) temporarily sabotage our peace of mind.
In this episode we look at the relationship between the quality of our thinking (in the moment) and having a high speed and sensitive neurodiverse ADHD mind. There is real peace of mind when we really start to see the loud, intrusive, panicky thoughts for what it is (noise) and we stop caring when those loud panicky thoughts show up that feel real. Especially when the brain innocently blames outside situations on our temporary distorted state of mind). We begin to have good will for ourselves again when we trust we are always being taken care if we trust in the divine intelligence behind life underneath the noise of our neural appliance called the brain.
Sometimes the conversation is so important and powerful that it requires two parts. I had the unique opportunity to chat with @moshegersht Moshe Gersht, talmudic scholar, spiritual teacher, Wall Street Journal and USA Today best Selling author of the book, It's All the Same To Me. For over a decade Moshe has had the blessing of connecting with some of the greatest minds, learning the treasures of profound Torah wisdom, and experiencing the light and love of Kabbalah and Chasidus. Moshe and I dive deep into the understanding of the human psyche and the innate intelligence and wisdom that lies underneath our concept driven world of make believe created by our personal mind.
On today's episode I had the unique opportunity to chat with Moshe Gersh, talmudic scholar, spiritual teacher, Wall Street Journal and USA Today best Selling author of the book, It's All the Same To Me. For over a decade Moshe has had the blessing of connecting with some of the greatest minds, learning the treasures of profound Torah wisdom, and experiencing the light and love of Kabbalah and Chasidus. Moshe and I dive deep into the understanding of the human psyche and the innate intelligence and wisdom that lies underneath our concept driven world of make believe created by our personal mind. Here is part one of our conversation.
Recently I had the unique opportunity to sit down and speak with Dr. Stacy Berman on how the gift of presence helps us see beyond our psychology and more to the truth of who we are underneath the noise of our thinking. Many people got to know Stacy Berman by getting their asses handed to them at one of her Stacy’s Bootcamp sessions in Central Park. A pioneer in the fitness industry, Stacy created the first all year outdoor bootcamp in NYC back in 1999. Called a “NYC fitness icon” by Forbes Magazine, Stacy trail-blazed the way for the global boutique fitness craze we see today.
It was during her rise in the fitness arena and her own that Stacy realized spiritual and mental healing is not only as imperative as physical wellness, but that they are irrevocably intertwined. This began her work in psychoneuroimmunology. Stacy now holds a PhD in Natural Medicine, is a Shaman of the Hopi tradition, works with Plant Medicine, is a movement and somatic specialist, sex expert, a Reiki Master, trained in Bioresonance Analysis of Health, ACMOS Method, and Compassionate Inquiry practitioner. Stacy has studied under Dr. Pillai, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dr. Amit Goswami, Dr. Gabor Mate’, MD, Dr. Baskaran Pillai, Dr. Thomas Sculz, MD and Dr. Bruce Lipton. Stacy has over twenty six years of experience in the health, healing and wellness industry where she worked with a broad spectrum of people from celebrity Chef Bobby Flay to triathletes to business people.
Recently I had the pleasure of sitting down with my good friend Justin Stark. Justin is not only a satellite engineer, he is also a brilliant stage actor with a technicolor neurodiverse mind. Justin discovered that one of the gifts of being a stage actor is learning how to be present with his fellow actors. This also has helped Justin relate to others. Justin has studied acting (since the age of 14) when he got the lead role as inspector Jacques Clouseau of the French Surety in The Pink Panther Strikes Again. Justin moved to the Southern California area where he began doing acting projects ranging from commercials to small budget films but truly found his calling in theatre acting. He has studied with Peter Frisch of the The Peter Frisch Studio in multiple consortiums. He has continued to play diverse characters in the theatre from Froggie in The Foreigner to one of the Venticelli in Santa Barbara Ensemble Theatre’s production of Amadeus. He also has played historical figures such as the impeccable David Frost in Dijon Productions smash hit Frost/Nixon which was a live theatre and screen event. Justin has continued to do theatre in the Santa Barbara area for the last 18 years.
Not taking on intrusive thoughts calmer thinking to prevail. The more we see "intrusive thought turbulence" as an indication we are momentarily hyper-focused on the noise in our head (instead of the present moment where our peace and wellbeing is), the better we see the illusion. The better we see the illusion the more we see what's true underneath the noise of our temporary intrusive thinking.
In this episode I had the honor of sitting down with Luke Colson, host of the "Well That F*cked Me Up! podcast. Luke shares his hero's journey of survival and triumph after experiencing a childhood trauma to persevering in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Luke Colson is a London born Film and Television Executive, specializing in Design, Animation and Visual Effects. Known for his work as Executive Producer on a number of Film and Television Main Titles sequences, including Watchmen, Westworld, Fearless, The Alienist, Ant Man and The Wasp, The Morning Show, Altered Carbon, Mulan, and Captain Marvel. Colson has been recognized by the Emmy Awards for his work on Game Of Thrones Season 8, for which Elastic won in the 'Best Main Title Sequence' and in 2019 won a BAFTA and a Royal Television Society (RTS) Award with Elastic for the Opening Sequence for 'His Dark Materials' for HBO and BBC. To add, Colson has been awarded multiple times by Clio, D&AD, LIA, Webby, AICP, Promax, Motion, ADC, and more.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Lilly Sais, a former lead school psychologist, now full time mental health practitioner. Lilly is passionate about helping people reconnect to their natural peace of mind, resiliency, and wellbeing through sharing the principles of Mind, Thought and Consciousness. Lilly used to struggle with anxiety, OCD, and panic, but through the Three Principles understanding Lily realized there was nothing to fix and nothing she needed to change. Lilly discovered anxiety and panic were friendly alarms letting her know she was innocently misusing the beautiful gift of thought. Lilly started to take her thinking less seriously. Everything shifted.
It was truly a pleasure to sit down with masterful transformational coach Angus Ross. Angus and his wife Rohini Ross have had much success helping couples find their way back to harmony and wellbeing after being on the brink of divorce or breakup. I am also honored to call Angus my coach. Angus is also co-founder of “The Rewilders” with his wife Rohini Ross. Listen to their podcast Rewilding Love. They believe too many good relationships fall apart because couples give up thinking their relationship problems can’t be solved. Many couples don’t know how to navigate low moods, conflict, and emotional reactivity. In this season of the Rewilding Love Podcast, Rohini and Angus help a couple on the brink of divorce due to conflict. Angus and Rohini love working with couples and helping them to reduce conflict and discord in their relationships by pointing them to their innate wisdom and wellbeing. They work with couples who are struggling and couples who would like to deepen the love and intimacy they already have. They co-facilitate private couples' intensives retreat program that rewild relationships back to their natural state of love. To learn more about his work visit: TheRewilders.org.
We have felt it before. In fact we feel it all the time. We are just not paying attention. It's that feeling of presence when we drop out of our noisy brains and into the present moment. It's where all the magic happens. But it is not what your brain is telling you. Yet you feel it when you meet the love of your life. Or when you find the job of your dreams. Or when your first child is born. Total presence. It's when you see below the nonsense of your super noisy ADHD mind. The more we see our psychology as impersonal and neutral the less we suffer.
Scott Gazzoli and I discuss the misunderstanding of how the mind works to help us see how the mind really works (not how we are conditioned to believe the mind works). We don't need to lose alot of money or have a family crisis to see that our wellbeing and coping abilities (or lack thereof) has nothing to do with our outside circumstances. We temporarily lose sight of the fact that we are experiencing thought and not our outside circumstances. There is nothing outside of us that can make us feel any way in particular. You can thrive in the middle of a health crisis. You can thrive amidst financial hardship. We are just one thought away from thriving and wellbeing.
ADHD is not a disorder. It is a made up label that the mental health industry has innocently conditioned us to believe is a disorder. Once we begin to look at ADHD and neurodiversity not from a disordered and dysfunctional perspective but from a 'not broken nothing to fix' perspective. ADHD is a high performance mind that works differently. We just need to learn how to use our neurodiverse equipment to work for us (and not against us). Yet we innocently get caught up in the label. We innocently look for things that don't work or we "think" need to be fixed. That's just what a brain does. That's just what an intellect does. It's nobody's fault. Yet there is so much beyond the intellect. There is so much beyond the noise of our conceptual based mind. There is so much beyond the "diagnostic" tools mental health professionals use. Once we look underneath the noise of our intellect we are then able to see beyond the made up label and diagnosis.
In this episode I had the honor of sitting down with the wonderful Wyn Morgan. Wyn is not only a world renowned master 3 principles practitioner, he is also co-host of one of my most listened to podcasts, "Under the Noise." Wyn Morgan is a 3 Principles practitioner based in Windsor, UK and works with corporations and private individuals in every continent around the world. Having stumbled across the principles 10 years ago, Wyn has completely changed his relationship to his own life and with himself. Wyn has been in the people development world for the past 22 years within organizations, and as a coach-consultant with his own business for the past 15 years. Wyn has been mentored by George and Linda Pransky, Barb Patterson, Elsie Spittle and Michael Neill. “I am constantly amazed how much more there is to see and how much more wondrous and simple life can actually be” “Helping my own clients in the corporate world achieve better results through the brilliance of their people along with those clients who come to me for their own personal needs is such a joy. I love watching them wake up to who they really are,” Wyn says. “In mentoring coaches, I love how my time is leveraged to bring out the best in their coaching ability who then help countless people all over the world to live happier, more fulfilled lives while achieving results they are thrilled with” Wyn adds. Wyn is a patriotic Welshman, with a love for travel, American Football, laughter and deep conversations.
A neurodiverse high performance mind always thinks its helping. It thinks its helping us at 170 mph. We are feel the emotions that sometimes slam into "us" at 170 mph. Next time it happens get really curious about the speed. The emotion. Just notice it. Just notice your speedy brain driving over the "thought speed limit." It doesn't take long to notice that it's not personal. It doesn't take long to notice its nonsense. It's just what a neurodiverse mind does. It's just what a neurotypical mind does (whatever typical means). It means nothing. . When there is a drama filled story being whipped up by your super speedy mind you see the illusion more. Most important, you see your freedom more.
Today I had the honor of sitting down with Sam Eaton, best selling author, keynote speaker, and host of the critically acclaimed mental health podcast, "Recklessly Alive." Sam shares his hero's journey of survival and triumph and is possibly the best example of seeing our resilience, courage, and resolve to keep moving forward despite our circumstances which is in all of us (if we just pay attention). Sam Eaton is a teacher, author, speaker, and founder of Recklessly Alive, a suicide prevention organization sprinting towards a world with zero deaths by suicide. A suicide survivor himself, Sam is crazy passionate about helping people tell a better story with their lives—one that is fully and recklessly alive. Sam’s first book, Recklessly Alive: What My Suicide Attempt Taught Me About God and Living Life to the Fullest, was released in January 2021 and reached the top 200 best-selling books on Amazon. Sam speaks regularly at schools, churches, retreats, and conferences throughout the U.S. He currently resides in Minneapolis, MN where he enjoys collecting vinyl records, lifting moderately heavy weights, and trying every flavor of Oreos. You can connect with Sam on Instagram and Tik Tok @RecklesslyAlive or at RecklesslyAlive.com.
In this episode I had the pleasure of sitting down with Justine Carino, LMFT who is also host of the wonderful "Thoughts from the Couch" podcast. Justine and I discuss how to see beyond the illusion of our "need to figure out and fix" intellectual mind and instead slow down and notice (in the quiet) our inner wisdom that's always there waiting for us. It's in that quiet we always know what to do. Not in the mind's made up narrative of unreliable prediction and judgement.
We have a swiss army knife of a neurodiverse ADHD mind that you always have access to (underneath the noise of our thinking). The more you notice the noise as something that has nothing on you (and nothing you need to do about it) the less you will suffer when it happens again. It's not who you are. It's just a reminder you are temporarily off course and that if you just let the noise move through you, the more you can return back to your super resourceful, brilliant Swiss army knife of a mind again.
In this episode I had the honor of sitting down with Rachel and Hiiro, host(s) of the wonderfully witty and sincere mental health podcast, "Getting Jewcy." Rachel and Hiiro are grandchildren of Holocaust survivors. They candidly share how being grandchildren of holocaust is the greatest reminder of their "inner resilient pilot light" that shines bright but also how it has forced them to revisit their own human frailties and conditioning that has been passed down from their survivor grandparents.
In this episode I share how a high speed neurodiverse ADHD mind can both be used as the greatest creative tool or a weapon against yourself through a personal story that almost threatened my college career and the wisdom (if you pay attention to it) our sped up busy mind helps us to see. What is truth vs. what is illusory and made up?
It's not every day that one has the opportunity to sit down with a very funny stand up comedian who also happens to host a top rated podcast called the "Smoking Simian." In this episode Antonio Barbosa shares his comedic journey from bombing in front of a large audience (and subsequently giving up) as the perfect catalyst to rediscovering his innate gift as a comedic talent who is now doing stand up in some of the best comedy clubs in the nation. Antonio's Bio: My name is Antonio Barbosa and the pandemic gave me the excuse I needed to start living MY life on MY terms. Realizing the need for independence, I started a podcast in August of 2020 titled The Smoking Simian. The premise of my show is to have interesting conversations with interesting guests and provide some insight into the lives of people you would have never met otherwise. I also decided that after a 5 year hiatus it was time to get back on stage as a comic and chase that dream as well. One I have had since I was a child. Nothing in this life is set in stone. My advice is to get out and DO everything you have ever wanted to, no matter how obscure or risky.
Try this on for size for a moment. Imagine if 100% of the constant chatty inner narrator in your head disappeared overnight. Sudden quiet. Stuff your mind is creating a big time story around would not get in the way of your peace of mind. All of the stuff that you worry would not have such a grip on you. You would have access to more of that inner creativity. That inner state of flow and wellbeing. Everyday concerns your mind creating a worrisome story around would not be a problem anymore. Solutions would appear from our "knowing."Relationships would be richer and easier. Yet it's not possible to stop thought no matter how hard you try to quiet it. Neutrality can still exist even in the noise of our thinking. We can still have a richer, more neutral experience once we begin to question our sped up thinking. We can have a more peaceful experience. We can step back from the judgements and critical analysis of our intellect is constantly trying to convince us is true. Underneath the illusion called thought.
In this episode I had the honor of sitting down with the amazing Rob Cook. Rob shares his own heroes journey about his past conditioning and learning to live from the "inside out." Rob is a decorated Air Force Veteran, he is a brilliant Speaker, Host & Coach, and Founder of unFIT the brand. Born and raised in the housing projects of Birmingham, Alabama, Rob sought to create a brighter future than what awaited many young Black men who grew up there. He joined the United States Air Force, where Rob became a decorated combat veteran. After 21-years of active duty service he retired, moved to the Los Angeles area to transition into civilian life. Rob became a certified life coach through Supercoach Academy, discovering an ideal balance between the mental and physical realms in his work as a coach. As the founder of unFIT, he offers a fresh approach to thriving in the whole experience of life through coaching, training, workshops, and speaking events for start-ups, non-profit organizations, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in between.
The conditioned story your mind creates about your ADHD quirks is why we suffer. It's not ADHD. ADHD is made up. It's just how your brain works. Sometimes the story created around ADHD is convincing. A convincing story made up in the moment by a machine based (brain) program. The machinery of the mind has to chime in. That's what a mind does. It does not know better. But knowing that the mind that creates the problem about our frailties is completely false. It's just thought. ADHD is not fun sometimes. The less we pay attention to the made up story we create around our ADHD silliness the less of a stranglehold it will have on our peace of mind. All of us stumble and forget and get caught up in the noise. Underneath the noise, underneath our psychology we see the made-up melodrama unfolding. The melodrama that is not us. It's not who we are. It's just thought.
In this episode I had the pleasure of speaking with fitness, nutrition, and weight management expert, Narado Zeco Powell. He is also the host of the top 100 ranked health and wellness podcast, "The Zeco Health Show." Narado Zeco Powell was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica and as a child, he was underweight. When he moved to the United States at age 16, he was 5’11” and weighed 113 pounds. By age 18, he was inspired to learn more about fitness and nutrition and took a special interest in fitness. He spent 18 years educating himself by reading evidence based scientific articles, learning from mentors and trying different techniques. Zeco carries 7 fitness and nutrition certifications from the International Sports Sciences Association. Having a large knowledge base allows him to work with a wide variety of clients and design programs that are specific to his clients’ needs. He shares his knowledge with others via several social media platforms including Twitter and Instagram. He is passionate about educating others and hopes to continue to learn, grow and adapt so that he can bring the most up to date and actionable content to his clients, followers and subscribers. You can learn more about Zeco and access his content on instagram: @zecohealth, twitter: www.twitter.com/zecohealth and his website: www.zecohealth.com.
There is no need to fix a feeling when we know how feelings work, especially when we are not so caught up in negative emotions towards our career, our health, and our family. The experience of having feelings is all ok. They have nothing on you. Negative emotion just means you are temporarily farther away from your center which is calm, resilient, hopeful, and full of love. Nothing to see here and nothing to do. Just hang on and let it settle. "If the only thing people knew was to not be afraid of their experience then that alone would change the world." - Syd Banks
Join Jami and I in part 2 of our conversation as we explore the gifts of having an ADHD neurodiverse mind that works differently, not dysfunctionally as we have been conditioned tobelieve.I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jami Fregeau, RN, BSN who is a full time nurse and host of one of Apple's top mental health podcasts called the "The Neurodivergent Nurse." I discuss with Jami what it is like having ADHD in the healthcare industry as well as her experience growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in a small close knit community in the South. Jami and I could have talked for hours about the gifts of having a neurodiverse ADHD mind. That's why we split this episode into two parts.
The Neurodivergent Nurse is a weekly podcast hosted by Jami Fregeau, a nurse who has ADHD. Her journey with ADHD is just beginning as she learns about this diagnosis and how to navigate through it. Enjoy this messy and raw journey as she shares what she has learned and the occasional embarrassing stories along the way.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jami Fregrau, RN, BSN who is a full time nurse and host of one of Apple's top mental health podcasts called the "The Neurodivergent Nurse." I discuss with Jami what it is like having ADHD in the healthcare industry as well as her experience growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in a small close knit community in the South. Jami and I could have talked for hours about the gifts of having a neurodiverse ADHD mind. That's why we split this episode into two parts. Stay tuned for part 2 of my thought inspiring conversation with Jami.
The Neurodivergent Nurse is a weekly podcast hosted by Jami Fregrau, a nurse who has ADHD. Her journey with ADHD is just beginning as she learns about this diagnosis and how to navigate through it. Enjoy this messy and raw journey as she shares what she has learned and the occasional embarrassing stories along the way.
A brilliant neurodiverse ADHD mind is always working overtime. It's a high performance yet innocently overworked machine. The ADHD mind problem solves with the quickness. The ADHD mind can complete multiple high stimulus tasks at the same time. Ask any emergency room doctor or nurse (who has ADHD) how much they love their jobs. As fast and high performing the brilliant neurodiverse ADHD is, it runs out of gas as quickly. This manifests as feeling overstimulated, anxious and temporarily stuck in a depressed state that I call theswamp of sadness. Especially first thing in the morning. We feel the weight of the world on our shoulders. We also sometimes forget what tasks we have to complete for the day (even when we know we have work or school) when we wake up first thing in the morning. It takes a little while to boot up the supercomputer between our ears. The content of our thinking doesn't matter when we are caught up in the machinery of our chaotic, anxious, overstimulated ADHD thinking. When we see below the noise of our mind's temporary swamp of sadness do we truly see the illusion of thought.
In this episode I had the honor of sitting down with Lillian Hernandez, author, educator, and host of of the critically acclaimed podcast, "True Lessons." Lillian Hernandez's zest for life and her authenticity has captivated a strong following, and nothing fills her more to make a difference on a larger scale. She went from being abandoned by her father, molestation, and teen pregnancy to a successful educator, podcast host, self-published author and life coach. You can say she is living her best life and now wants others to live theirs! Lillian is the founder of Level Up Coaching. The host of the Podcast: True Lessons (formally known as Wine Down with Lil) and author of Experience Required, a memoir of her life (available in English and Spanish). She also published a short story collection, A Lil Drama for Ya. The collection holds stories her students enjoyed very much in the classroom and inspired her to publish. "Have the audacity to believe in yourself"- Lillian Hernandez, La Autora
Don't be afraid to be the true essence of you. There is 100% nothing wrong with your brilliant, neurodiverse ADHD mind. Part of being human is being ok with our moodiness. You are going to feel cranky and extra overwhelmed sometimes. THE ADHD neurotype is a brilliant, yet hypersensitive system. There is nothing wrong with you (as long as you are not hurting others). Underneath the noise you are perfect. The more you try to quiet the noise the louder it gets. Modalities never work long term. The realization that you are not your moods is powerful indeed. It is ok to have them, and they are 100% harmless (and 100% mean nothing, and not to be taken on or seriously) and just part of your human experience. You are allowed to be in a crappy mood. If people don't like the totality of you (moods and all) then let them walk away. You will attract your tribe.
Are you afraid of loneliness or failure, confrontation or facing the unknown? Psychologist Dr. Nancy Stella draws on decades of experience in clinical practice in her new book, “Fear Traps: Escape the Triggers that Keep You Stuck” — which presents her concept of the Courageous Brain Process, a six-step, science-based treatment plan to help people overcome fear.
“Fear Traps” equips readers to heal trauma and take on new challenges with confidence and resilience. Dr. Stella shows us that fear is normal, but fear does not need to control you. If you’re feeling trapped in a cycle of coping mechanisms that just keep making things worse, there is a way out. With over 30 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, Nancy Stella, PsyD, PhD, helps us get unstuck by teaching us how our brain processes fear. Using current neuroscience research, her Courageous Brain Process (CBP) provides transformative, science-based practices to regain control over the emotions that once controlled us.
For people with a speedy neurodiverse ADHD mind we live in the technicolor noise of sensory overload. And that's ok. There is nothing wrong and more importantly there is nothing to fix. ADHD'ers are not attention deficit, we are attention different. When we get quiet we see our intelligence. We see what's possible. Our fast moving ADHD mind gets us there. That's where the magic lies. The challenge is seeing our self awareness kick in when we become overstimulated, reactive, start forgetting things, or quickly lose our focus. The more we get curious about it the quicker we can catch it when our attention goes south. With a high performance ADHD mind comes the responsibility of active preventative maintenance like an F1 race car.
Recently I had the chance to sit down with Long Island's very own Brenna Guinan, mental health counselor extraordinaire and host of the refreshingly honest and brilliantly funny mental health podcast Real Fckn Talk. We discuss how the pandemic has, in many respects, created a mental health crisis not only for patients but for the dedicated mental health professionals out on the front lines.
You can reach out to Breanna here:
Instagram: @real.fckn.talk
Email: realfckntalk@gmail.com
Podcast: Real Fckn Talk (spotify, apple, etc)
Imagine a world without the inner narrator (our inner head chatter) telling us what is what. Imagine your inner narrator not being there. Imagine everything is neutral. You would have no judgement of your outside world. Yet the outside natural world is always completely neutral. It's your internal jibber jabber that adds meaning and creates that noisy world. You can have that quiet. You can view your world without judgement (even if the head chatter is at high volume). You have this thing called stillpower. Stillpower is pointing you back to that quiet everyday. Whether you have a neurotypical brain or a neurodiverse brain. You just don't pay attention to it.
Recently I had the unique opportunity to sit down with an extraordinary young man named Thomas Henley. Thomas is an Autism & Mental Health advocate, creating YouTube videos, podcasts and documentaries. With a degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University Of Manchester, a Commonwealth gold medal in Taekwondo, and a talent for public speaking, Thomas seeks to raise awareness and support others on their own personal growth journey. Thomas' motives come from his long history with Autism, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders & Panic Disorders. Experienced in Special Needs teaching, human sciences, and how to help others understand his conditions, he seeks to bring a new face to Autism and Mental Health disorders. YouTube (Aspergers Growth) - https://www.youtube.com/c/aspergersgrowth Podcast (Thoughty Auti Podcast) - https://anchor.fm/thoughtyauti Website - https://thomashenley.co.uk/ Social Media - @ Aspergers Growth
"Life isn't showing you the truth of reality. It is not programming you. You are programming yourself to see life a certain way." - Rachel Francis This week I spent time with the brilliant embodiment coach, Rachel Francis who hails from East Cork, Ireland. Rachel shares her journey exploring Italy and what's possible when we begin to see every moment as the gift just as it is, the good, bad, and the messy parts in between. Rachel is a certified Embodiment Coach. She specializes in helping people 1-on-1 in their mid 20s and 30s who feel disconnected to their full potential, unfulfilled and unconfident, embody a new self-concept and cultivate self-authority to obliterate sabotaging beliefs and negative patterns that are holding them back from the person they are meant to be and their happiest life. Rachel is also a Directory Member and Expert Coach with the international holistic retreat group Bien Etre and I am a host of the Spotify podcast 'Spiritual Roundtable Podcast'.
Taylor Roark of Galiant Trainings is not only a masterful intuitive coach aligning consciousness with purpose, he is also a wonderful human being. Taylor and I had a brilliant conversation back in August about what it means to connect with what our heart is calling us to. It happens to all of us if we pay attention to the quiet voice inside of us. That quiet voice is a blissful gift from the universe. It is that leap of faith that your brain innocently turns into a dangerous cliff edge. It's only when we see beyond the illusory nature of the Netflix movie of the mind do we discover it is a featherbed.
I have been patiently waiting to have my friend, the brilliant Chase Marks on my podcast for some time now. I finally got to interview the fabulous Chase Marks, the host of the Bystanders Podcast (which is my top five favorite). To say that Chase uplifts the lives of others (as a podcaster and a mental health advocate) is a true understatement. Chase also works in theater automation which is so apropos to our discussion today about the "theater of the mind"and how the drama of mind is not only made up, (if we really pay attention) it is not a creation of our own doing. It just is and it doesn't matter where it comes from. It's not us. So sit back, relax and enjoy. You will be glad you did.
Mental health is not something you work on. It's not something you obtain. It's not something you "manage." It is your true north. Your essential nature. And it's all there on offer. And in the immortal words of the Scottish mystic Sydney Banks: "We are just one thought away from mental wellbeing. Just one thought." Nothing better encapsulates this truth when we finally see who and what we truly are, underneath the noise of thought and thinking. It's called inner resilience and inner wisdom that guides us along the river of life like a perfect GPS system. We have flickers of our inner wisdom all day long. We just don't pay attention to it enough. Emily Davis, host of the brilliant mental health podcast, "The Wondering Mind," gets this truth. Then she forgets. Then she remembers again (like all of us do from time to time). Emily and I sat down to chat about her journey with ADHD and depression and how, after many years of suffering she started paying attention and trusting her own inner wisdom underneath the noise of her thinking.
Are my thoughts clear? Is my mind quiet? Am I open to my essential nature (found in all of us) which is resilience, compassion, and love? And it's not found in our very human experience of thought and thinking. It's in that quiet space. It is in that quiet space that most of our most beloved athletes win championships and break records. Simon Mundie is a lover of sport. Especially tennis. He has interviewed some of the greatest tennis players of all time. Recently I had the honor of (from across the pond) sitting down with Simon Mundie, host of the brilliant podcast Life Lessons: From Sport and Beyond. Simon is also a critically acclaimed presenter for BBC TV and Radio 4's Today Program. Simon shares many touching examples of the fearless competitive wisdom in the athletes he interviews and how this precise discovery rests within all of us, right here, right now, no matter the circumstance.
In today's podcast I had the pleasure to speak with the brilliant transformational coach, Siobhan Friel, on how the mind really works (what they didn't teach us), and why we often forget that we are making it all up.
ADHD is a paradox of opposite abilities and behaviors that resonate at more intense levels than in those who do not have ADHD. Paradox is the coexistence of seemingly contradictory qualities or phases. One major paradox in a person with an ADHD neurotypeis the inability to focus due to periphery noise. Periphery noise can interfere with the ability to carry on a conversation, get important work done, or follow direction in a person with ADHD. This can strain relationships (work and interpersonal) and lead to us feeling constantly exhausted and misunderstood by our frustrated peers. Peripheral noise is kryptonite to a person with ADHD. Sniffles and coughs are like bird calls in an aviary. Sniffles evolve into snuffles in my ADHD brain like blows in a steel foundry. To make matters worse the noise can sometimes be louder and more disruptive than your neighbor's car alarm going off in the middle of the night. It's not only disruptive it can be painful to a person with ADHD. Understanding how the speedy ADHD mind works is not only helpful to a person with ADHD but to our co-workers and the people (who care about us) to practice patience, compassion and make accommodations when the noise in our head is disruptive.
In this episode I had the unique opportunity to speak with a very special human. His name is Daniel Jackson, a gifted spirit guide and intuitive coach. Daniel shares how we can polish the lens of the heart, mind, and soul from the wisdom of our ancestors beyond the veil. It was truly an honor to listen to Daniel share his wisdom and experiences channeling spirit. You don't want to miss this episode!
In this episode I had the unique opportunity to speak with Scott Gazzoli, successful entrepreneur, Brooklynite, and host of the Causing the Effect podcast, a top 25 mindset podcast on Apple. Scott takes us on a colorful journey from growing up as a young kid inside the mafia to recreating himself over and over again until he found real success and contentment not just financially but in his heart, mind, and soul.
Mya is a brilliant coach and shaman from Queensland, Australia who helps her clients awaken from their dogmatic slumbers. Mya utilizes her shamanic gifts to help her clients see beyond the noise of their limiting beliefs and conditioning.
In this episode I share the microphone with my very first guest, my dear friend and fellow podcaster Bobby Couto of the Bobby Couto Show and the Disgruntled American Podcast. It's a feel good and engaging conversation between two friends on two different coasts. We share our personal experiences on mental health and how we both "experience" a rapidly changing world through the lens of generation x.
In today's episode I had the unique opportunity to speak with Matt Roberts, aka, "The Psychological Performance Coach," on how to experience more of what every human being wants more of (clarity of mind and wellbeing) and why we often (innocently) look in the wrong place for it.
In this podcast we explore the nature of labels and the behavioral conditioning that humans innocently experience when diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, OCD and other related "disorders" and how to see beyond the stigma attached to the label.
A typical ADHD adult experiences life more intensely than neurotypicals. The ADHD nervous system wants to be engaged in something interesting and challenging. Attention is never "deficit." It's always excessive, constantly occupied with internal engagements. When people with ADHD aren't not present and in a state of flow they have many things rattling around in their minds all at once. Past, present, and future are never separate and distinct. When we see the illusory nature of this "neuro-experience" called ADHD we are better equipped to be the silent observer of the frenetic system which allows us to get less "sucked in" to it.
Your brain loves you and wants to keep you safe. But just like your laptop computer it is useless without "YOU" at the controls. Especially when your brain glitches and spews out all sorts of error commands in the form of overwhelmed, scary thinking. Scary thinking when there is nothing in the present moment to be scared about. So don't worry. It’s never your fault. It happens to all of us. It is the experience we call being human. As long as you see it as 100% nonsense and temporary. As long as you see it as just anxious, sped up, overwhelmed (ego fueled) scary thinking that will settle on it's own very soon. As long as you see the glitch in the operating system the more we see the glitch as normal (and very human) the less we suffer. The less we suffer the quieter we get. The quieter we get the more time we spend in a very magical space called the present moment.
When we see that our worst enemy is not our desperate circumstances but the very human tendency to getting caught up in the content of our thinking, silly beliefs, and conditioning of how life is supposed to be. Syd Banks, the brilliant Scottish mystic once said: "Everyone at this moment is mentally healthy when you look at yourself from those eyes and you look at others from those eyes the way you are changes." And you don't find it in your intellect. When our mind calms down we enter this space as Syd Banks calls it, "pure consciousness." You don't have to believe in spirituality (or practice anything), being religious to see what I am pointing to. It's always there. It's always on offer. It's built in to everyone of you. Once your thinking gets quiet we drop into the fearless now.
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The only real truth is relaxing into hope when we get present. The only truth is living in the feeling of possibility right now. Living in the feeling of enjoyment despite how good or bad your circumstances are. So what is true with all of you at this present moment? Because all we have is this G-d given moment right now. As Syd banks once said: "get out of the future, get out out of the past, and get over yourself."
In this episode we examine the very human tendency to get caught up in the machinery of our brain's concept driven rigid business plan of how life is supposed to be. If we follow the brain's conditioned "fear algorithm" it leads down a torturous rabbit hole called suffering. When we point more to our G-d given gift of calm and wellbeing, we see what is possible beyond our noisy brains.
Why are we hypersensitive? Who cares. It just is. It’s our neurotype.
Maybe our hyperreactivity sometimes is also wrapped in old conditioning or habitual thought that is never examined. It does not matter.
We don’t behave this way all the time. We are not hypersensitive all the time. When we are not caught up in emotional reactivity we are calm. Focused. Clear. We are not ADHD all the time. When we are not ADHD we are following our own inner guidance. It’s not found in your brain. It’s in the "fearless now."
In this episode we see how to see the mental health in all human beings. The eminent Scottish mystic Syd Banks once said “mental health lies within the consciousness of all human beings, consciousness of all human beings, but it is shrouded and held prisoner by our own erroneous thoughts. That is why we must look past our contaminated thoughts to find the purity and wisdom that lies inside our own consciousness. When the wise tell us to look within they are directing us beyond intellectual analysis of personal thought, to a higher order of knowledge called wisdom."
We are all blessed with an inner guidance system, an inner GPS that (if we allow it to) gently guides us down the river of life. It is pre-installed original equipment at the factory. It is in all of you. If we pay attention to it more. If we don't get distracted and caught up by the convincing noise of the monkey mind. Noise our brain innocently tries to convince us is true. Then one day we see the ridiculousness of the noise. A ridiculous brain trying to convince you to pay attention to it. Why? Because the brain thinks that the noise will keep you safe and help you survive. That is great if there is a real physical threat like a saber tooth tiger hiding lurking in the shadows and ready to pounce. The real wisdom is getting curious about the noise. Realizing it is not real. Realizing it is all made up. Once we realize this we can pay attention more to our inner wisdom and less to the noise in our heads.
The great pattern interrupter is that quiet space we all drop into naturally but don't pay enough attention to. We are just one thought away from wellbeing. We all get to see there is a quiet and conscious knowing outside of our "caught-upness" of a low mood if we spend a little more time paying attention to the quiet we are all gifted with.
This episode is about the anxious and catastrophic future fantasy thinking inner narrator that is running in our head sometimes and how to make peace with it. We all have an inner narrator constantly informing us of our outside world.
In this episode I discuss how liberating it is when we stop believing our anxious and sped up thinking and how liberating it is when we stop trying to manage or "fix," judge, or blame the outside world for our temporary low mood.
What if your inner melodrama called head chatter suddenly disappeared? What if I told you you were just one thought away from mental health? Calm? What if I told you you are more than the sum total of that made up bullshit neural movie your mind is currently making up at this very moment? You would tell me I am crazy. Actually your mind's ego is probably judging all of this as we speak. Perhaps it's time to stop listening to your ego fueled intellect? What if I told you that getting quiet is all you need to get closer to your true nature? Your true nature, a.k.a. wellbeing and calm? What if I told you that you drop in and out of the present moment all day long yet never pay attention to it? You don’t need resolutions in 2021. All you need is presence. Presence is all you need. Then you have a chance to find your next job. Your next love. Your next big idea. The choice is yours... Wishing you, you, and you in the nosebleed seats a happy and healthy "present" New Year...
Deep down we know it is there. Yet we get distracted. We get enticed. We get addicted. Addicted to the neural adjenou of stressed out thinking. Judgemental and critical habitual thought. Wrapped up in a neat and fancy Tiffany gift bag called conditioning. Then one day it hits us. When we see it. We see it in a brief flicker. A sliver of a moment. Presence. Then we see it more. Happening to us more and more everyday. It's Eckhart Thole's: "the power of now." It's the secret spice. It's where all of your inner wisdom and guidance is hidden.
Feeling out our thinking determines the quality of our thinking. When we are in a low mood, anxious, or overwhelmed (in the moment), it is telling us not to trust our current level of thinking.
In this episode we discuss how our personal mind pulls the emergency brake on heavy and chaotic ill-will thinking on it's own. Without doing anything. It's the ultimate barometer. That ultimate gift. The noise is your friend. Like a check engine light in your car. Telling you that you are just in your head. It is not to be believed. The mind self corrects on its own. Calms down on its own. It is built into the mind's operating system of every one of us. If we allow it more. See it more. Pay attention to it more. It's the ultimate form of self compassion. Self compassion is when you notice the mind's brilliant auto-correcting thought settling system.
In this episode we discover how to not take our transitory, insecure, anxiety ridden thinking seriously.
In this episode we discuss what it truly is like to let go of the controls and relax into hope.
In this episode I discuss how our addiction to conditioned thought patterns can get us in trouble.
You can never escape thought and thinking. Just like you can never escape a "feel good" feeling. At this moment. Right here, right now.
Society looks at anxiety as a terrible thing. What if we can be just ok with our anxiety? Yes, it is uncomfortable sometimes. Yes, it is scary. What if we look at our anxious mind as not a broken piece of machinery? What if we see our mind as a perfectly/imperfect high precision machine that is alerting us with anxiety when our mind is going to fast? Alerting us to slow down? Or that there is a temporary software glitch?
Anxiety just moves through us in the moment. It does not exist. Anxiety is a barometer. It is not there to terrorize you. Anxiety is just the check engine light on the car dashboard indicating the engine is overheating. It is alerting you that you are too zoomed in on a problem.
Our mind has not had a software update since the paleolithic era. The brain’s emergency alert system cannot differentiate between suddenly being jostled in your seat by air turbulence from being chased by a saber tooth tiger. But we can. When we are calm. In the moment. When we see our crazy mind innocently getting confused and caught up. What the personal mind does is package up the past nonsense and replays it for you when you have to make a decision that is life changing or you are on time constraint. The judgements, the old tape, and the critical analysis comes in on how difficult it is going to be. Then you take a deep breath, hold on and wait for the thought storm to pass through us.
We have mental health within all of us, we just don’t know it. You can still be very anxious and perform in front of an audience. Or score the winning hit in a baseball game. Or going on a job interview. We are all divinely guided by a factory default internal GPS that is always working for us. 7 days a week, 365 days a year. And if you get calm and listen you will understand what I mean. What to do next in your life, your job, your relationship is never found up in your mind.
Never has been. Never will.
In this episode I discuss how story and metaphor (in the moment) help calm our insecure, anxiety ridden sped up thinking.
In this episode I share how a panic attack and a near collision on the interstate made me understand how thought and thinking works. My story will help you make peace with your own panic and anxiety and allow you to have more peace of mind when it happens again.
Your personal mind is like your favorite television actor pulling the strings of thought and thinking. What we think is truth in the moment. Yet our personal mind is just making it up as we go along. Your personal mind does it’s best to create a story in the moment. To fill in the observational gaps. What percent of it is actually true? When we drop out of fearful thinking we drop back into the present moment. We finally see the present moment is not scary. The present moment is not anxiety ridden. It is your mind writing, producing, and directing the current melodrama. The more we so our perfectly imperfect personal mind using the tools of the trade called blame, judgement, and criticism the more we see the psychological innocence of it all. The more we see understanding, humility, and inner resolve the more we see our self-awareness muscle. A huge muscle that has always been there. Covered up by layers of heavy thought and thinking. A gift that we all possess. Even in the most harrowing moments. Harrowing moments that feel unimaginable. Untenable. Excruciatingly painful. Don't take my word for it. Try it for yourself.
“There is mental health in all of you. You just don’t know it.”
– Sydney Banks
What if we are not flawed or broken at all? What if the nature of who we are is ok? What if we are not our psychology?
There are ways of looking at how we see the world and how we see ourselves without having to change anything. What if I told you that we are not our thoughts, feeling, and behaviors? What if I told you that the traditional way of looking at human psychology is not only backwards but wrong? What if I told you that there is a fearless resilience in every one of you listening right now? That inner resilience and wellbeing is our natural default state. Pre-installed on every human being. This new paradigm called the inside-out understanding (also known as the three principles) shows us that our anxieties, fears, and worry are all made up. Innocently made up by a perfectly imperfect supercomputer called your brain.
Yet societal conditioning makes us feel there is something wrong with us when our thinking sometimes goes to the dark side of the force.
Tune in now to learn more on episode #1 of the Fearless Now.