How does quieting the mind help the body heal? In this conversation, Baba Sam shares his journey of overcoming decades of chronic illness—including MS—by clearing mental clutter and shifting his mindset. We discuss how our thoughts affect our health, why letting go is essential for healing, and practical ways to create the inner stillness needed for the body to restore itself. If you're looking for a new perspective on self-healing, this episode is for you. Tune in and join the conversation! Che...
Feb 16, 2025•52 min•Ep. 66
In this gripping episode, Michael Ruder shares his powerful journey through tragedy, addiction, and ultimate redemption. He opens up about the devastating murder of his uncle, the darkest days of his addiction, and the struggles that nearly broke him. Despite it all, he found a way to rebuild his life and achieve success. If you’re looking for an inspiring story of resilience, personal growth, and overcoming adversity, this episode is a must-listen Check out Michael's Documentary "Making Mike" h...
Feb 12, 2025•54 min•Ep. 65
In this episode of Mentally a Badass, we explore healing generational trauma, the science of epigenetics, and the mental health impact of working in social media. Our guest shares her experience navigating burnout, digital pressures, and breaking toxic cycles while prioritizing her well-being. We dive into how trauma is passed down through generations, the role of epigenetics in mental health, and actionable steps to heal, grow, and rewrite your story. If you're looking for self-healing strategi...
Feb 09, 2025•55 min•Ep. 64
In this episode, I chat with Chana Studley about her journey of healing after being mugged multiple times. She shares how she shifted out of a victim mindset, processed her trauma in a whole new way, and changed her life by letting go of negativity. We dive into resilience, mindset shifts, and what it really takes to heal. If you've ever struggled with past trauma or want to break free from a negative headspace, this episode is for you! Connect with Chana: https://www.chanastudley.com/?fbclid=Iw...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 63
In this episode, I sit down with Ryann to unpack what it was like growing up in chaos and how she found her way to inner peace. We talk about who she used to be, what healing looked like for her, and how she learned to let go of the past. If you’ve ever struggled with making peace with your childhood, this one’s for you. Tune in for an honest and real conversation about growth, healing, and finding peace after the storm. Listen to Ryann's Podcast! https://raisingwildhearts.buzzsprout.com/ Connec...
Feb 02, 2025•55 min•Ep. 62
In this episode, I sit down with Matt Gerlach to dive deep into the realities of burnout, success, and resilience. Matt opens up about his personal journey—pushing himself to the limit, ending up in the hospital, and learning how to move forward when life doesn’t go as planned. We explore the pressures of achievement, the importance of balance, and strategies for navigating tough times. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by expectations or unsure of your next steps, this conversation is for you. Tu...
Jan 29, 2025•58 min•Ep. 61
In this raw and inspiring episode, I sit down with Jonathan to explore his incredible journey of resilience and growth. We dive deep into: The challenges of overcoming binge eating and battling an eating disorder. How self-sabotage plays a role in mental health struggles and breaking the cycle. A harrowing story of survival—the time Jonathan narrowly escaped being murdered. Connect with Jonathan: This is a free e-book that will show you exactly how to Crush Your Cravings. Included in it: 1. The ...
Jan 26, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 60
In this episode, I sit down with Jessi Hartnett to have an open and honest conversation about nicotine addiction and the emotional ties we form with smoking. We discuss how cigarettes can feel like a source of companionship, how that reliance develops, and what it takes to break free. Jessi shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and how she ultimately stopped relying on smoking. Whether you're struggling with nicotine addiction or just curious about the psychology behind it, this...
Jan 22, 2025•56 min•Ep. 59
In this episode, I’m chatting with Craig Meriwether about how hypnosis can help with mental health and personal growth. From breaking through emotional blocks to creating new thought patterns, we dive into how this powerful tool works. We also get real about living with bipolar disorder—sharing experiences, tips, and a whole lot of honesty. If you’ve ever been curious about hypnosis or want to hear an open conversation about mental health, this one’s for you. https://aceanytest.com/ The Ace Any ...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 58
In this episode, I’m joined by veteran Scott DeLuzio, who shares his powerful story of loss, struggle, and resilience. Scott opens up about losing his brother in combat, how he coped with alcoholism, and his journey to healing. We also discuss the unique challenges veterans face and highlight resources that can make a difference. This conversation is raw, honest, and inspiring—shedding light on the importance of support, connection, and finding strength in the hardest times. Check out Scott: htt...
Jan 12, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 57
In this episode, I chat with Bev Mitelman about all things attachment styles—what they are, how they form, and how your childhood environment plays a huge role in shaping them. Bev opens up about her own childhood experiences, and I share a bit about mine too. We dive into how these early experiences affect your relationships, emotions, and even your sense of self as an adult. If you've ever wondered why you act the way you do in relationships or want to better understand yourself, this episode ...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 56
In this solo episode, I’m just chatting about the wild energy on Threads—it’s toxic, it’s messy, and honestly, I might be a little addicted to the chaos. From heated arguments to big debates (like the whole billionaire thing), it’s a lot to unpack. Grab a drink, get comfy, and let’s talk about why this app is both the worst and the most entertaining thing ever. Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram: @MentallyABadass Join our mental health community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shar...
Jan 03, 2025•30 min•Ep. 55
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lino Martinez to talk about his journey as a transgender man. He opens up about his transition, answers some of the most common (and sometimes awkward) questions, and busts a bunch of myths about the trans experience. This conversation is all about understanding, learning, and breaking down barriers. Tune in for a raw and real chat you won’t want to miss! Connect with Lino: https://www.alittlelessfear.com/ Curious about what it really means to be transgender?...
Jan 01, 2025•59 min•Ep. 54
This episode gets real and raw as I chat with Stephanie Aycock about losing her dad to suicide and how it shaped her life. We talk about the inner critic she’s had to face, how it affected her healing journey, and what she’s learned about quieting that negative voice we all deal with. Stephanie shares her story and gives tips for handling your own inner critic, so you can show yourself more love and kindness. It’s a heartfelt conversation you don’t want to miss! Connect with Stephanie: https://w...
Dec 22, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 53
In this episode, Jamie Fleming shares her journey of healing from childhood sexual abuse and the challenges of not being believed when she opened up to her family. She discusses how psychedelics became a powerful tool in processing trauma, reclaiming her power, and finding peace. Join us for an honest and inspiring conversation about breaking cycles, healing through unconventional methods, and overcoming the pain of the past. Lots of people live as prisoners to their past traumas, but it doesn't...
Dec 18, 2024•58 min•Ep. 52
In this episode, I sit down with Anne Alexander-Sieder to explore her extraordinary life story. From a challenging childhood that led her to boarding school and hitchhiking across California to taking a 16-year break from acting after moving to Germany, Anne's journey is one of resilience and reinvention. She shares how she overcame personal struggles, created her own opportunities in the acting world, and rebuilt her career after years away from the spotlight. This is a conversation about perse...
Dec 14, 2024•58 min•Ep. 51
In Conversation: Keisha Cornelius on Mental Health and Multiracial Identity In this episode, I sit down with Keisha Cornelius, a doctoral student in prevention science, to discuss the unique mental health challenges and identity struggles faced by multiracial individuals. Keisha shares her personal journey, academic insights, and her mission to empower multiracial children and their families to cultivate positive mental health and a strong sense of belonging. Check out Keisha: Tik Tok: @keishaco...
Dec 11, 2024•52 min•Ep. 50
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Maggie Parr to explore her courageous journey through self-harm, depression, and finding hope again. Maggie shares her story of struggling with her mental health while working at "the happiest place on Earth," proving that even in the most magical settings, inner battles can persist. She opens up about the steps she took to stop self-harming and how she rebuilt her life with resilience and self-compassion. About Our Guest: Maggie Parr is an artist and au...
Dec 08, 2024•51 min•Ep. 49
In this episode, I chat with Anna Parker about how heart coherence can help us stay calm and centered, even when life gets messy. Anna shares her experience supporting her daughter through mental health struggles and what she’s learned about finding balance along the way. We keep it real, talking about the ups and downs of parenting, mindfulness, and learning to go with the flow when things don’t go as planned. It’s a chill, honest convo with plenty of takeaways for anyone looking for a little m...
Dec 04, 2024•53 min•Ep. 48
In this solo episode, I’m talking about how life gets a whole lot easier (and way happier) when you stop worrying about what society thinks you should be doing. We all feel the pressure to follow certain expectations, but once you let that go, you can really start living on your own terms. I’ll share some thoughts on how to lighten up, embrace who you are, and find real happiness by ditching the stress and comparison. If you're tired of trying to meet everyone else’s standards, this one’s for yo...
Dec 01, 2024•18 min
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Nikki LaCroce as she shares her deeply personal journey of leaving an abusive relationship and reclaiming her life. Nikki opens up about the emotional toll of staying in a toxic situation and the courageous steps she took to finally break free. She discusses the pivotal role therapy played in her healing process and how embracing vulnerability became a key tool in her recovery. Connect with Nikki: Visit https://canijustsaypodcast.com/ to subscribe for e...
Nov 30, 2024•1 hr 8 min
Episode Description: Grief is something we all experience, but it often feels isolating and misunderstood. In this heartfelt conversation on Mentally a Badass, I’m joined by grief coach Mandy Capehart to unpack the many forms of grief—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or the grief that comes with life’s changes. Mandy shares her wisdom on processing these emotions, reminding us that grief isn’t something to “fix” but a journey we navigate. Together, we explore how to e...
Nov 27, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 1
In this episode, we’re joined by Tammy Cox to discuss the deep impact of childhood trauma and how it shapes our adult lives. Tammy opens up about growing up in a strict religious household and how those experiences influenced her subconscious, emotional intelligence, and relationships. We explore how unresolved childhood wounds can affect marriages and partnerships, creating patterns that hinder emotional connection. Tammy shares actionable insights on healing your inner child and building stron...
Nov 23, 2024•52 min
This week, I’m chatting with Lolita, and her story is a wake-up call. Stress literally landed her in the hospital, and she’s opening up about how it all went down. We get real about abandonment issues, burnout, and chasing “success” at the expense of your health. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about what it means to take care of yourself before it’s too late. https://bit.ly/464XRYS Ready to transform your stress management an...
Nov 20, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this episode, I chat with Giovanna Silvestre—former Hollywood pro turned wellness influencer and soon-to-be author of Confused Girl: Find Your Peace in the Chaos. We get real about the big stuff: letting go of ego, figuring out your purpose, and finding what truly makes you happy. Giovanna shares her journey from working on blockbuster films to embracing a more mindful, fulfilling life, and how she’s helping others do the same. It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth convo you don’t want to miss. Pr...
Nov 16, 2024•54 min
In this episode, I sit down with Susan Snow, who shares the story of losing her father in a tragic ambush when she was just 17. Susan talks openly about her journey through PTSD, the challenges of therapy, and the importance of vulnerability in her healing process. Together, we explore what it takes to face deep trauma and how embracing openness can lead to lasting recovery. This conversation offers hope, resilience, and valuable insights for anyone touched by trauma or supporting someone who is...
Nov 13, 2024•53 min
This week, I’m joined by Ana Megrelishvili, who shares her eye-opening story of growing up in poverty and what it’s like to navigate life without basic access to food and resources. Ana talks candidly about her journey, the challenges she faced, and how those early experiences shaped her passion for community and advocacy. We dive into some big questions around homelessness, why community matters, and what we can all do to help. Tune in for a conversation that’s honest, inspiring, and a reminder...
Nov 09, 2024•52 min
In this episode, we’re joined by Annie, a certified wellness coach who shares her journey of overcoming low self-esteem and building unshakeable confidence. Annie opens up about her personal stories and the struggles she faced, and she offers actionable tips that anyone can use to improve their self-worth and feel more confident in daily life. Listen in as Annie shares her best strategies for shutting down negative self-talk, building resilience, and embracing self-acceptance. Whether you’re loo...
Nov 06, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this episode, I sit down with Jessie Torres, a peak performance coach who’s been through—and risen above—an abusive relationship. Jessie opens up about the toll it took on her mental health and self-worth, and how she found the strength to rebuild. Now, she’s helping hundreds of women break free from toxic patterns and reclaim their lives. If you’re feeling stuck or want to find your inner strength, Jessie’s story will inspire you to start your own journey to healing and self-love. https://un...
Nov 02, 2024•47 min
In this episode, I chat with Beth about her incredible journey through cancer and her path to recovery. Beth opens up about the challenges of dealing with trauma, chronic pain, and nervous system burnout, and how she found relief through movement and practices like Pilates. We dive into the real connection between trauma and physical health and how simple movement can be a game-changer for easing pain, calming the nervous system, and supporting emotional healing. Whether you’re working through t...
Oct 30, 2024•47 min
