The Mindful Mentor: Recent Episodes
Bree Gordon
Helping to build a culture of self awareness and empathy in business, life and family through community storytelling.
Host Bree Gordon speaks with Michelle Carter-Hanson, wife, mother, professional caregiver, and author of "When Abba Moves" about the power of prayer, faith and trust. Michelle shares excerpts from her challenging personal journey including moving to the United States from Jamaica, raising her children as a single parent, navigating hunger and financial insecurity, while highlighting her strong relationship with God, faith and prayer along the way. Michelle's inspiring story not only shines a light on the importance of spirituality in her life but also her resilience and gratitude. You can purchase Michelle's book, "When Abba Moves" on Amazon.
Host Bree Gordon talk with school safety advocate, Max Schachter. After his son was murdered in 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Max dedicated his life to fighting for school safety practices through his organization Safe Schools for Alex. Max shares information on various initiatives, resources and scholarship opportunities he has developed over the past 4 years. Max also speaks candidly about his grief and anger and the importance of honoring his loss while fighting for change.
Disclaimer: This episode features in depth conversations on mass gun violence
Host Bree Gordon speaks with returning guest, Ricky Aiken. Ricky is the Founder and Executive Director of Inner City Innovators and the Hope Dealers Movement in West Palm Beach, Florida. After experiencing the devastating effects of community gun violence first hand, Ricky and his team began to advocate for, mentor and empower their community through innovative violence prevention programming. With the recent surge of gun violence plaguing the country, Ricky shares his stories of success in connecting his community through these initiatives and provides mentorship and resources for others looking to support their neighborhoods.
Disclaimer: This episode features in depth conversations on community gun violence and mass shootings.
Host Bree Gordon talks with educator, speaker and community leader Pranoo Kumar. Pranoo is a proud immigrant daughter to Konkani Indian parents and an educator committed to liberating experiences for children. Through her social justice focused bookstore, Rohi's Readers, Pranoo advocates for diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility in children’s education. Bree and Pranoo discuss the importance of children's critical literacy in building an empathic and inclusive community.
Trauma-informed Disclaimer - Threats of gun violence are discussed in this episode.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Canadian artist, Katy Gill. Katy is also a blogger, teacher and advocate as well as author of the book "Reserved and Deserved", which reached #1 in the Animal Rights category on Amazon. Katy talks about her experiences in Shamattawa First Nation as an art teacher and how that experience turned into a passion for animal rights advocacy and animal rescue efforts. Katy and Bree reflect on the profound impact of showing love and compassion to a human or animal who has lacked connection.
Host Bree Gordon talks with former ER Nurse Practitioner turned DIY and fitness/nutrition expert, Ahna Fulmer. Ahna is the owner and author of the lifestyle blog "Hammers N Hugs" and hosts the podcast "imPERFECTly emPOWERed". Ahna and Bree talk about the impact an environment can have on holistic wellness. Ahna shares a wealth of tips on how to set yourself up for success when it comes to your wellness goals.
Host Bree Gordon talks with former sports journalist and current media specialist, Brian Murphy and hockey coach turned mental health advocate, Mark Wick. Brian and Mark share their personal mental health journeys as well as reflections on the stigmas around men and mental health. Mark and Brian speak specifically to how the athletic community has the potential to support men in their pursuit of mental wellness. Both men reference the positive impact of The Face It Foundation on their lives. According to the Face It Foundation website, "Face It was founded in 2009 with the goal to help men understand and overcome depression, and reduce the rate of male suicide" (www.faceitfoundation.org).
Host Bree Gordon talks with entrepreneur, author and health coach, Justin Thomas. Justin is also the host of the podcast, "Become a Provider". Bree and Justin talk about lessons they have learned from mentors on how to serve others while being mindful of your own health. Justin shares his philosophy on living an intentional life and how it has served him in his personal journey.
Host Bree Gordon talks with women's hormone health expert, nutritionist, and certified personal trainer, Jenny Swisher. Jenny is the creator of the Sync Digital Course, author of the Sync cookbook and host of the podcast "Sync Your Life" . Her mission is to help women find alignment with their physiology in order to live with maximum energy. Jenny and Bree share personal stories and advice on optimizing health and wellness.
Host Bree Gordon talks with pilates instructor, entrepreneur, business coach and host of the podcast, "Be It Til You See It", Lesley Logan. Lesley and Bree talk about the value of showing up authentically and with confidence in life and work. Lesley's passion for life long learning and teaching is evident as she shares valuable advice on how to "be it til you see it".
Host Bree Gordon talks with speaker, teacher and survivor of physical trauma, Chris DT Gordon. Chris is the host of the podcast and Youtube channel "Scar Bearers" as well as the creator of The Attitude of Gratitude (TAG). Chris and Bree simultaneously interview each other and share personal and professional stories of gratitude, positivity and resiliency.
Host Bree Gordon talks with licensed mental health counselor Nicole Edwards. Nicole is a women's empowerment mentor with a personal mission to inspire all women to live artfully and passionately. Nicole shares why it is important for both men and women to access their "divine feminine". Bree and Nicole also discuss the role of intimacy, sensuality and vulnerability in relationship with self and others.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Therapeutic Recreation Specialist and Certified Laughter Yoga Leader, Tina Antonucci. Tina specializes in long term care and is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner. Tina shares her insight on using humor to overcome personal and professional challenges. Bree and Tina share personal stories on finding happiness in the caregiving journey as well as tips for personal or professional caregivers. Tina, aka Dr. Tight Pants, is a recent graduate of clown school!
Host Bree Gordon talks with husband Jeff Lukosavich about their recent experience coping with a Covid diagnosis and hospitalization while preparing for the arrival of their baby. Bree and Jeff share how overcoming this challenge has helped them become more present and peaceful as parents and partners.
Host Bree Gordon speaks with marketing expert, Hay House author, and creator of the Market Your Genius brand, Nikki Nash. Nikki shares her passion for helping female entrepreneuers grow and market their businesses. Nikki and Bree talk about the importance of authenticity and sincerity in personal and professional development.
Host Bree Gordon talks with personal brand strategist and adoptive parent, Brad Bishop. Brad and Bree discuss complicated feelings of grief, loss and love involved with adoptive, step and biological parenting. This conversation is a follow-up to the popular Episode #30 on "Coping with loss through connection, community and creativity".
Host Bree Gordon talks with Executive and Life Coach, Roy Assad. Roy is the Managing Partner at Human Capital Group, a team of coaches dedicated to empowering and transforming people, teams and organizations. Roy and Bree talk about the role of authenticity, empathy and mindfulness in marketing, sales and leadership.
Host Bree Gordon talks with film composer, arranger, Steinway artist and producer, Starr Parodi and singer, songwriter and violinist, Isolde Fair. Starr and Isolde are a mother/daughter creative team from Los Angeles. Starr is also the President of the Alliance of Women Film Composers. Starr and Isolde talk with Bree about the impact of music on their relationship, on emotional and mental health in general and the importance of celebrating women composers.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Kate Glaser, Founder of Hope Rises. Hope Rises is a social media initiative aimed towards promoting good news and goodwill. Kate is a former television journalist turned branding and marketing specialist with Make-a-Wish. Kate shares stories of hope, generosity and everyday heroism.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Janic Gorayeb, Founder and Creative Curator of Ripple Effect Leadership. Janic shares her take on values based leadership training and her philosophy that leaderships manifests itself in various ways. Janic and Bree discuss the role of creativity in the workplace.
Host Bree Gordon talks with psychotherapist, Jonathan Rios. Jonathan is an athlete turned mental health professional and author who specializes in addressing addiction, panic disorders and performance barriers. Jonathan and Bree talk about the role of shame and connection in their clinical work as well as Jonathan's upcoming book "Primal Virtues for the Modern Man".
Host Bree Gordon talks with life coach, motivational speaker and Army Veteran, Jesse Cruz. Jesse has authored the book, "Live Your Dash: Discovering the 8 F's to Freedom". In this episode, Jesse shares his personal story of grief and loss and how the experience inspired him to help others achieve freedom in their lives. Jesse walks listeners through "8 F's" to pay attention to in order to achieve this freedom.
Host Bree Gordon reflects on 9 months of interviews with experts from around the country, highlighting 3 take away messages for listeners this holiday season. Bree also announces a virtual Connection Bootcamp, featuring interactive workshops with several guests from The Mindful Mentor. Tickets are available for purchase now at mindfulbree.com/connectionbootcamptickets.
Host Bree Gordon talks with interior architect and non-profit director, Daniella Gruenthal. Daniella combines her passions for humanitarian design and architectural design in her organization, Domes for Humanity. Daniella and Bree talk about what is takes to live joyfully and generously while maintaining self-care and avoiding burnout.
Host Bree Gordon talks with board certified music therapist and licensed professional counselor, Kate Shannon. Kate is the creator of Creative Therapy Umbrella, a podcast and online community for therapists, focused on childhood mental health. Kate and Bree talk about the impact of play, music and creativity on perinatal, postpartum and childhood mental health.
Host Bree Gordon speaks with mentor and community leader, Ricky Aiken. Ricky is the Founder and Executive Director of Inner City Innovators and the Hope Dealers Movement in West Palm Beach, Florida. Ricky and Bree share personal stories about the impact of community support and individual mentorship on underserved youth.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Oklahoma City based marketing strategist Brad Bishop. Brad has worked with Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams and small businesses to help them grow their brand and tell their story. Brad and Bree talk about their personal experience with losing a parent and how grief and loss can shape your life and relationships.
Host Bree Gordon talks with clinical psychologist and good friend, Dr. Lindsay Slifer. Dr. Slifer specializes in working with clients and families in addiction recovery and geriatric settings. Dr. Slifer and Bree discuss ways to support family members and friends who may be experiencing emotional and psychological distress during the holiday season, while maintaining healthy boundaries.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Licensed Clinical Social Worker Rhodena Mesadieu. Rhodena is the owner of and therapist for Restore Wellness Counseling Center and Founder of the community based non-profit Dare to be a Girl. Rhodena shares her passion for empowerment and her mission to "transform young girls into women that make daring contribution".
Host Bree Gordon talks with perinatal mental health specialist, Lauren Romero. Lauren is a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern and is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS). Bree and Lauren discuss confusing and conflicting feelings that may arise during pregnancy and motherhood. Lauren provides validation and resources for mothers experiencing mental health challenges during this time.
Host Bree Gordon talks with successful business mentor, Heather Dominick. Heather is the Founder of A Course in Business Miracles and the Highly Sensitive Entrepreneurs Movement. Heather answers the question: Can you be highly successful and highly sensitive at the same time? Heather also shares her thoughts on why people who identify as highly sensitive have the ability to cope better and even thrive during challenging times such as the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Host Bree Gordon talks with poet, Ryan Buynak. Ryan has published 10 poetry books, some under his own publishing company, Coyote Blood. In addition to reading his poetry, Ryan also performs as a comedian and storyteller. In this episode Ryan talks about the power of storytelling from the perspective of the performer/author and the audience. Bree and Ryan also challenge listeners to a creativity challenge to begin their storytelling or creative expression journey.
Host Bree Gordon speaks with board certified music therapist and public speaker, Daniel Goldschmidt. Daniel has spoken nationally and internationally on the topic of whiteness as a source of harm for therapeutic professionals. In response to the murder of George Floyd, Daniel hosted whiteness accountability groups to give white folks a space to engage in conversations on anti-racism. In this episode, Daniel shares his experience in anti-racist work from the perspective of a white, Jewish, straight, cisgendered male.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Licensed Therapist, Christy Leigh, aka "Trauma Queen Christy". Christy is also a writer, self help guru, Instagram mentor and trauma survivor. In this episode Christy shares her personal story of childhood abandonment and her decision to break generational chains as she became an adult and a mother.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Grammy nominated producer and Broadway composer/arranger, Kim Scharnberg and LA based producer, Will Scharnberg. Kim and Will work together as a father/son team on various music projects as well as support each other in recovery. In this episode, Kim and Will talk about generational healing and the impact of their support for one another, both personally and professionally.
Host Bree Gordon talks with hosts of the Anatomy of Marriage podcast, Melanie and Seth Studley, LMFT. In addition to their popular podcast, Melanie and Seth created a couples counseling app (Get Your Marriage On), host support groups for married men and women and offer marital coaching. In this episode Melanie and Seth share their personal marital challenges to offer, in their words, "real help for real couples".
Host Bree Gordon talks with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Noah Rothschild. Noah is a renowned inner child healing and recovery expert, author, speaker and Instagram encourager. Noah shares how his personal need for inner child healing and re-parenting led to his profession in transformational psychotherapy and coaching.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Brian Austin, Founder and Executive Director of The Animation Project (TAP). TAP is a non-profit that provides access to technical skills and therapeutic support to youth and young adults. Brian is an accomplished animator, two-time Telly award-winner and Grammy-nominee, a published animation author and teacher, and a visual artist. Brian talks about his personal experience as a juvenile delinquent, the role of art and technology in his own life and how it inspired him to mentor and teach others as an adult.
Host Bree Gordon talks with yoga teacher, sleep guru and podcaster, Kayla Butler. Kayla uses her background in neuroscience to guide her yoga practice with children and adults. In this episode Kayla shares the emotional, physical and spiritual benefits of mindfulness and rest. In addition to her work as a yoga teacher, Kayla curates and hosts the podcast "Lay with Kay".
Host Bree Gordon talks with dear friend and fellow trauma-informed board certified music therapist, Shashanna Orellano. Shashanna shares her personal journey with mental health including coping with multiple mood and personality disorder diagnoses, finding a therapist and accepting the need for medication. Shashanna normalizes asking for help even as a helper herself.
Host Bree Gordon talks with entrepreneur and financial freedom mentor, Gerald "Nova Sound" Campbell. In this episode, Gerald talks about how his work as a recording artist and music producer led to his desire to become a youth and financial freedom mentor. Gerald also shared what "financial freedom" and "abundance" means to him as a young business owner.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Professional Opera Singer and Voice Teacher, Jessica Ann Best. Jessica is a mezzo-soprano who has been a featured singer with the Savannah Voice Festival, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Florida Orchestra, and the Rochester Oratorio Society and many more. Jessica shares her story of coping with and overcoming trauma, grief and insecurity by living an authentic life on and off stage.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Dr. Jamie Brodarick, PhD. Dr. Brodarick specializes in relational issues like communication and conflict. In this episode, Dr. Brodarick combines her interest in studying Attachment styles with the Enneagram and shares an eye opening take on conflict resolution.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Tim Ringgold, board certified music therapist, speaker, author and business owner. Tim specializes in working with clients in recovery to reduce pain and stress and is in long term recovery himself. Tim has given over 80 talks nationally and internationally on the subject of music for relaxation, including a Tedx talk and opening for Tony Robbins. Tim also hosts the podcast "Reduce your stress with Tim Ringgold".
Host Bree Gordon talks with dear friend Ashley Wegman. Ashley opens up about his journey with self-awareness and self-acceptance as a gay man as well as his evolving relationship to Pride. Ashley also shares resources for anyone in the LGBTQIA community struggling with their own identity, acceptance from others and/or mental health.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Alere Emotional Health, Tony Gonzalez. Tony has 15 years of experience in mental and emotional heath treatment and end-of-lifecare/bereavement counseling and specializes in trauma-informed care. In this episode, Tony talks about current events including the Coronavirus and racial injustice and the underlying trauma associated with both.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Master Stepfamily and Family Life Coach, Naja Hall. Naja hosts the popular podcast, "I Know I'm Crazy", and is the Founder of VIP Stepmom and Blended and Black. In this episode, Naja talks about the value of self-awareness when entering in a blended family, particularly as it relates to generational and childhood trauma.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Founder of Anchors Aweigh Counseling, Nicky Treadway. Nicky is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, specializing in adventure and nature-based therapy. In this episode, Nicky discusses the physical, mental and emotional health benefits of connecting with nature, especially in times of isolation and change.
Host Bree Gordon talks with "Karen and Joe Joe Waste Your Time" co-hosts and dear friends, Karen House and Joe Kim. In this episode, Karen and Joe chat about Myers-Briggs, Enneagram and other personality tools that help people better understand themselves and how they show up in relationships.
Host Bree Gordon talks to her Financial Advisor / husband, Jeff Lukosavich. Jeff specializes in areas of insurance and financial planning. In this episode, Jeff shares his advice for everyday planning as well as recommendations for becoming financial aware and secure during times of uncertainty.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Creator of Happy Family in 90 Days, Elise Montgomerie. Elise is a parent and life coach, public speaker and special needs mom. In this episode, Elise shares her personal journey with her son who is on the spectrum, the lessons she learned the hard way and how to apply those lessons to parenting during this unusual time.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Shine MSD President, Joe Garrity and board certified art therapist, Alicia Ballestas. ShineMSD is a non-profit that provides trauma informed creative arts therapy services for the Parkland community in the aftermath of the school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School. Joe and Alicia discuss the benefits of creativity while coping with loss and change as well as the challenges of providing support to others while experiencing collective trauma as a provider or parent.
Host Bree Gordon talks with co-creator of Decaffeinated: An Anxiety Podcast, Elisa Halliley. Elisa is a music therapist, musician, hospice/bereavement specialist and podcast host. In this episode, Elisa shares her perspective as an essential healthcare worker coping with anxiety during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Founder of The Peaceful Minds Center, Tom Notarianni, and his student, Allie Shevlin. Tom is a spiritual mentor and public speaker with 25 years of experience. In this episode, Tom and Allie share relatable and practical advice for living a joyful life with a peaceful mind, even during times of change and uncertainty.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Founder of Live Yes And, Travis Thomas. Travis is an improvisational comedian and performance coach. In this episode, Travis shares his advice for navigating challenges and finding opportunities in every situation, including during the current Coronavirus pandemic.
Host Bree Gordon talks with Founder and CEO of House of Loveillionaires, Inc., Sabrina Harris. Sabrina is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and community leader in Southeast Florida. In this episode, Sabrina shares her personal journey through trauma, acceptance and self-healing and how it all led to her current calling as a therapist.