The Evolution of Faith: Mathew Blades on Rediscovering Joy In this episode, Mathew Blades shares his deeply personal journey with faith, from his church-filled childhood to a long period of disconnection, and ultimately, to a renewed sense of spirituality. After witnessing inconsistencies in those around him, Mathew Blades drifted from organized religion, exploring Buddhism and other philosophies in search of meaning. The loss of his parents and struggles with mental health sparked a gradual reconnection—first through conversations with his mom, then through the powerful draw of worship music. Attending a new church reignited his sense of joy and belonging, prompting new reflections on what it means to be “in the right car” in life. With candor and openness, Mathew Blades reminds listeners that faith is a lifelong, evolving process—and that wherever you are on your journey, you are not alone.

Can you handle the truth? Using biblical references and personal insights, Mathew introduces the concept of the "narrow gate" as a metaphor for the challenging but rewarding path to personal growth and authenticity. He encourages listeners to "air check" their lives, a technique borrowed from his radio career, to evaluate what's working, what needs improvement, and what should be eliminated. You'll hear: • How to create a life that feels authentically yours, despite personal limitations • The impact of childhood experiences on adult behaviors and decision-making • What it means to be a "transitional character" in your family or community "I am not the smartest person in the room. I barely passed any test I ever took. I don't have any letters after my name. But I will say, through a lot of hard work and determination, I've created a life for myself that feels authentically mine." - Mathew Blades To bring in Mathew to speak at your church, visit: https://mathewblades.com/churches/  

The Power of Forgiveness - Watch her new Documentary, Dawn Dusk One of the most striking aspects of Chelli Look's story is her journey to forgiveness. She faced the unthinkable task of forgiving her brother-in-law for taking her sister's life.  Chelli's experience teaches us that forgiveness isn't about excusing the act or forgetting what happened. Instead, it's about freeing yourself from the burden of anger and resentment. As she put it: "The act of forgiveness was a liberating work for me to no longer let that act have such a grip on my life, and especially not on my mind." This shift in perspective allowed Chelli to sleep better, think clearer, and move forward with her life. It's a powerful reminder that forgiveness can be a gift we give ourselves. Visit our new website www.LearnfromPeoplewhoLivedit.com    

Grief, Art, and Forgiveness: Shelley Look's Journey of Healing In this powerful episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Chelli Look, a leather artist and entrepreneur (CHC) from Chicago, to explore her transformative journey through grief, forgiveness, and healing. She shares her heart-wrenching experiences of losing both her sister to domestic violence and her best friend in a car accident, and how she channeled her pain into creating stunning leather goods. You'll hear: • How her new documentary "Dusk Dawn" captures her path from devastation to inspiration • The unexpected process of forgiving her sister's killer and its liberating effects • Why art became a crucial tool in her healing journey Chelli Look's story is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. From struggling with sleepless nights and violent thoughts to finding peace through forgiveness and creativity, her journey offers hope and guidance for anyone grappling with loss. "It was initially not even on the table. It wasn't a thought in my mind at all whatsoever. She was killed in 2007 and it was again such a blindsided loss..." - Chelli Look Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

Holding on to Hope When Life Gets Turbulent In this heartfelt solo episode, Mathew Blades shares a personal story about a simple sweatshirt with the message "There is hope" and how it sparked unexpected connections. Reflecting on lessons from gospel music and scripture, Mathew Blades explores the resilience required to hold onto hope—especially in turbulent times, both literal and metaphorical. Through stories, song lyrics, and honest reflection, Mathew Blades reminds you that even when hope seems hard to find, it’s within reach—often requiring us to dig deep and reconnect with something greater than ourselves. This episode is a gentle, uplifting reminder to be the source of hope the world needs now more than ever. To bring Mathew in to speak for your Church, visit him here:  https://mathewblades.com/churches/  

What is a  Moral Injury - and How does it take a toll? One of the most striking aspects of Matthew's story is his emphasis on moral injury, a concept that's often overlooked in traditional PTSD treatment. As Dr. Dave, our resident psychiatrist, explained, moral injury occurs when someone witnesses or participates in actions that violate their deeply held moral beliefs. This can leave lasting scars that are difficult to heal without proper support and understanding. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

Healing Through Golf Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Matt McDonell, founder of Next 18, to explore the complex interplay of childhood trauma, military service, and mental health.  Key highlights include: • Matt's military experience and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life • The creation of Next 18, a golf-based program supporting veterans' mental health • Insights into moral injury and its role in hindering healing Through candid discussions and expert insights, this episode provides a roadmap for those grappling with trauma, offering hope and practical strategies for healing. McDonell's powerful statement, "I feel like I have my soul back," encapsulates the transformative potential of addressing deep-seated emotional wounds. Whether you're a veteran, first responder, or anyone dealing with past trauma, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the journey to reclaiming one's life and finding purpose beyond pain. Visit Matt here: https://next18.org Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

If I only had you for five minutes, what would I want you to know?  That is the very premise behind our QUICK TIPS episodes.  Chrissy's story starts with a familiar tune - the pressure to be the "good girl" in a strict religious household. Sound familiar? Many of us grow up thinking we need to fit into a specific mold to be worthy of love and acceptance. But here's the kicker: I grew up with a specific theology called Calvinist theology, where they teach you that you are bad, you are sinful, you are wicked and evil, and that you can't trust yourself, that the only good thing in you is Jesus. This belief system left Chrissy feeling disconnected from her true self, constantly striving for approval and battling with the fear of being "bad." It's a struggle many of us can relate to, whether we grew up in a religious household or not. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

This week, Mathew Blades and Cortney McDermott sit down with Chrissy Powers, a therapist in San Diego. We explore the complex journey of healing from religious trauma and finding authentic self-acceptance. Chrissy shares her raw, personal story of growing up in a high-control religious environment and the profound impact it had on her sense of self-worth and mental health. You'll hear: • How early exposure to strict religious teachings can lead to long-lasting trauma and disembodiment • The challenges and triumphs of leaving organized religion and deconstructing deeply ingrained beliefs • Innovative approaches to healing, including therapy, psychedelic-assisted treatments, and embodiment practices Chrissy's journey from constant self-doubt to self-acceptance is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. She recounts her experiences with ketamine therapy and cannabis-assisted sessions, emphasizing the importance of guided support and integration work in these alternative healing methods. "My number one tool would be don't do it alone. Find someone or a therapist or a coach who's been through it that you trust. That's also going to help you pay attention to your body, not theirs, not their story, your body." - Chrissy Whether you're grappling with religious trauma, seeking to understand a loved one's experience, or simply interested in the intersection of spirituality and mental health, this episode offers valuable insights and a message of hope for those on the path to self-discovery and healing. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

The Complexity of Anger and Forgiveness In this week's quick tips, I want to isolate a part of our conversation around anger. Here are 3 key takeaways from our powerful conversation with Patricia: - Healing is possible, regardless of circumstances: Patricia's story proves that even in the darkest moments, there's always hope for recovery and growth. - The importance of self-trust: Learning to listen to your inner wisdom can be a crucial step in breaking cycles of trauma and abuse. - Unlearning is as important as learning: Sometimes, the key to personal growth lies in letting go of old patterns and beliefs. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking inspiration, healing, or a deeper understanding of trauma recovery. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC   A note from our partner, Better Than Bitter:   Divorce isn’t just a life transition - it’s a full-blown identity shift. One day, you’re a partner, a parent, and a planner for the future. The next? You’re staring at paperwork, lawyer fees, and the overwhelming question: ‘What now?’   I know it’s hard. That’s why we’ve created these courses - to give you courage, clarity, communication tools, and the support you need to move forward with confidence (and maybe even a little hope)! This program will pay for itself by helping you save thousands in legal fees and emotional stress! Hit these links to sign up today. Premium 5-Step Game Plan Course w/ Chat Coaching https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=7  Standard Course 5-Step Game Plan Course https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=8 

Patricia Journey of Healing and Hope In this powerful episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Patricia Noelle, a survivor of childhood abuse and forced adoption who transformed her pain into purpose.  You'll hear: • How Patricia overcame a harrowing past of abuse within the Mormon community • The unexpected role of psychedelics in unlocking repressed memories and facilitating healing • Strategies for navigating complex emotions like anger and forgiveness after severe trauma "I wholeheartedly believe that psychedelics saved my life," Patricia reveals, detailing how these experiences helped her confront buried traumas. But she's quick to add, "That's not to tout that psychedelics are for everyone." Dr. Dave offers professional insights throughout, particularly on managing anger and the neuroscience of trauma.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with past traumas or seeking inspiration in their own healing journey. Patricia's story reminds us that no matter the circumstance, healing is possible.   Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)    Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/   Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC   A note from our partner, Better Than Bitter: Divorce isn’t just a life transition - it’s a full-blown identity shift. One day, you’re a partner, a parent, and a planner for the future. The next? You’re staring at paperwork, lawyer fees, and the overwhelming question: ‘What now?’ I know it’s hard. That’s why we’ve created these courses - to give you courage, clarity, communication tools, and the support you need to move forward with confidence (and maybe even a little hope)! This program will pay for itself by helping you save thousands in legal fees and emotional stress! Hit these links to sign up today. Premium 5-Step Game Plan Course w/ Chat Coaching https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=7  Standard Course 5-Step Game Plan Course https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=8   

In this episode of "Learn from People who Lived It," Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Debbie Zita, an entrepreneur and coach from Melbourne, Australia.  Debbie Zita's journey from a troubled past to a six-figure coaching practice is both inspiring and instructive. She offers a unique perspective on integrating spiritual practices with business success, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and ecological checks when pursuing personal growth. "If I can do this and learn how to receive money, and money is a great thing to practice receiving. Sorry, spiritual folk, I love you, but we do actually need money while we're on this planet." - Debbie Zita Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)    Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/   Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

In this episode of "Learn from People who Lived It," Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Debbie Zita, an entrepreneur and coach from Melbourne, Australia. Debbie shares her powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma, adult abuse, and personal loss to become a successful business owner and spiritual guide. You'll hear: • How Debbie's challenging childhood shaped her resilience and drive • The transformative "Six Selves" framework for personal growth and self-inquiry • Practical advice on balancing spirituality with entrepreneurial hustle "If I can do this and learn how to receive money, and money is a great thing to practice receiving. Sorry, spiritual folk, I love you, but we do actually need money while we're on this planet." - Debbie Zita This episode also features a surprise appearance by author Cortney McDermott, adding depth to the conversation about resilience and personal transformation. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking balance, a spiritual seeker looking for practical guidance, or someone on a healing journey, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

"Depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, dyslexia. These are all things that I've been told that I have. And they're not things that I have. There are things that I've experienced." - Dr. Annamarie Frank This conversation offers hope and practical advice for anyone struggling with mental health issues or negative self-talk. Dr. Frank's insights, combined with Dr. Dave's professional perspective, provide a roadmap for personal transformation and mental wellness. "When you experience emotional pain. You've already paid the tuition, now take the class and find out what you can learn from it." - Dr. Dave

Breaking Free from Inner Bullying: A Journey to Mental Wellness In this eye-opening episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave are joined by Dr. Anna Marie Frank, author of "Stop Bullying Yourself," to explore the transformative power of changing our thoughts and behaviors for better mental health. Dr. Frank shares her journey of healing her brain, challenging the limitations of medication-only approaches to mental wellness. She offers practical strategies for overcoming depression and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of neuroplasticity and creating new neural networks. Key topics include: • The potential to reshape our brains at any moment • Practical steps to change thought patterns and behaviors • Understanding and silencing your inner bully "Depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, dyslexia. These are all things that I've been told that I have. And they're not things that I have. There are things that I've experienced." - Dr. Annamarie Frank This conversation offers hope and practical advice for anyone struggling with mental health issues or negative self-talk. Dr. Frank's insights, combined with Dr. Dave's professional perspective, provide a roadmap for personal transformation and mental wellness. "When you experience emotional pain. You've already paid the tuition, now take the class and find out what you can learn from it." - Dr. Dave Tune in for an empowering discussion that will challenge your perceptions of mental health and inspire you to take control of your inner dialogue.   Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)    Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/   Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC   A note from our partner, Better Than Bitter: Divorce isn’t just a life transition - it’s a full-blown identity shift. One day, you’re a partner, a parent, and a planner for the future. The next? You’re staring at paperwork, lawyer fees, and the overwhelming question: ‘What now?’   I know it’s hard. That’s why we’ve created these courses - to give you courage, clarity, communication tools, and the support you need to move forward with confidence (and maybe even a little hope)! This program will pay for itself by helping you save thousands in legal fees and emotional stress! Hit these links to sign up today. Premium 5-Step Game Plan Course w/ Chat Coaching https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=7  Standard Course 5-Step Game Plan Course https://tanialeichliter.ontralink.com/t?orid=1049&opid=8   

A Sudden Turn of EventsLife can change in an instant. For Kijuan Amey, that instant came on May 5, 2017. A promising Air Force reservist and budding entrepreneur, Kijuan's world turned upside down when a car pulled out in front of his motorcycle. The collision left him with severe injuries, including the loss of his eyesight. But Kijuan's story isn't about what he lost. It's about what he gained – a new perspective on life and an unwavering determination to inspire others.

In this powerful episode, Mathew Blades and Dr. Dave sit down with Kijuan Amey, a motivational speaker and author who transformed a devastating motorcycle accident into a mission of inspiration.  You'll hear: • The harrowing details of Kijuan's life-altering accident and its immediate aftermath • How he navigated the emotional and mental challenges of recovery • His innovative approach to physical therapy, turning rehabilitation into a personal challenge • The pivotal mindset shift from "Why me?" to "What's next?" "I may have lost my sight, but I did not lose my vision," Kijuan shares, encapsulating his transformative approach to adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to turn their own struggles into stepping stones for personal growth and inspiration for others. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

Mindfulness, Mental Health, and the Cannabis Conundrum In this eye-opening episode, host Mathew Blades explores the complex interplay between mindfulness, mental health, and cannabis use with experts Julie and Dr. Dave. From the dangers of cannabis-induced psychosis in young people to the transformative power of mindfulness practices, this conversation offers a wealth of insights for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. "If you think that taking a pill is going to be enough, you're mistaken," warns Dr. Dave, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying issues and engaging in positive behaviors. Julie adds, "I'm so powerful. We're so powerful. We're going to be okay," reminding us of our innate capacity for resilience and growth. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

Mindfulness, Mental Health, and the Cannabis Conundrum In this eye-opening episode, host Mathew Blades explores the complex interplay between mindfulness, mental health, and cannabis use with experts Julie Potiker and Dr. Dave. From the dangers of cannabis-induced psychosis in young people to the transformative power of mindfulness practices, this conversation offers a wealth of insights for anyone looking to improve their mental well-being. Julie, a mindfulness expert and author, shares her journey into mindfulness after a stress-related health scare. She explains how Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindful Self-Compassion techniques have revolutionized her life and how she now teaches these powerful tools to others. Dr. Dave, a psychiatrist, provides valuable medical insights throughout the discussion. Key topics include: • The potential risks of cannabis use for developing brains • How mindfulness practices can combat stress and improve overall health • The SNAP technique for emotional regulation • Balancing medication and mindfulness for mental health management Listeners will come away with practical strategies for incorporating mindfulness into their daily lives, including creating a joy list and practicing gratitude. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply looking to enhance your mental well-being, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. "If you think that taking a pill is going to be enough, you're mistaken," warns Dr. Dave, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying issues and engaging in positive behaviors. Julie Potter adds, "I'm so powerful. We're so powerful. We're going to be okay," reminding us of our innate capacity for resilience and growth. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)  Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/   Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC

What would we want you to know if we only had five minutes of your time?  That is the very reason we started doing these shorter episodes.  Let's face it, we're all guilty of seeking that magic pill. But Lucy drops this truth bomb: there are no quick fixes when it comes to mental and spiritual health. It's a journey, folks. And the sooner we embrace that, the better off we'll be. So, what's the secret sauce? Nervous system regulation. It might not sound sexy, but trust me, it's a game-changer. Lucy explained how our body's stress response can wreak havoc on everything from digestion to sleep patterns. The good news? We have more control over this than we think. Enjoy this short episode and please pass this along to a friend who needs to hear it. Follow the podcast:  Listen on Apple Podcasts (link: https://apple.co/3s1YH7h)  Listen on iHeart (link: https://ihr.fm/3MEY7FM)  Listen on Spotify (Link: https://spoti.fi/3yMmQCE)    Connect with Mathew Blades:  Twitter - twitter.com/MathewBlades Instagram - instagram.com/MathewBladesmedia/  Facebook - facebook.com/mathewbladesmedia/  Website - learnfrompeoplewholivedit.com/ Additional Credits: LFPWLI is managed by IMS LLC