Shruti Sethi is a holistic health coach, cancer survivor, and founder of Awana Health.
At 34, Shruti was a fashion designer living what looked like a healthy life - vegetarian diet, regular gym sessions, an active lifestyle. Then came a cancer diagnosis that shattered everything she thought she knew about health. Here's the thing - when she traced back her steps, she discovered something most doctors never ask about: chronic stress, suppressed emotions, and a body constantly running in fight-or-flight mode. The illness wasn't random. Her immune system had been sending warning signs for a year before the diagnosis.
Expect to learn why stress can trigger cancer cells and how the mind-body connection works, what happens when you live in denial about your mental health, how nutrition directly affects your brain function and emotional resilience, why changing your diet can transform your energy and mental clarity in just two weeks, the crucial role of early childhood in forming mental health patterns, why parents need to model vulnerability for their children, what schools are getting wrong about mental health support, practical daily habits for calming your nervous system including nature exposure and grounding, and much more.
This conversation will challenge how you think about the connection between physical illness and emotional wellbeing.
Follow Shruti:Instagram: @shruti_sethi_Website: https://awaanahealth.com/
Angelo Valenti is a psychologist, leadership coach, and author of "You're Making This Way Too Hard: Find Your Easy Way to Enjoy Life."
Most people are grinding toward a version of success that isn't even theirs. Here's the thing - they're following scripts written by society, parents, or peers, and wondering why achievement feels hollow. Angelo spent decades coaching leaders and realized the same pattern kept emerging: high performers chasing external validation while ignoring what actually brings them joy. The breakthrough? You can't lead others effectively until you've stopped betraying yourself.
Expect to learn the key difference between therapy and coaching and why one looks backward while the other moves you forward, why Angelo abandoned a family legacy in dentistry to pursue psychology, what the "Sunday night test" reveals about your workplace culture, the two questions every hiring manager should ask before bringing someone onto their team, why you can't truly love others until you love yourself first, how to create an environment where honest feedback flows without fear, why a learning mindset is the difference between growth and intellectual death, practical strategies for self-care that go beyond the physical, and much more.
This conversation will challenge how you think about success, self-worth, and what it actually takes to lead a fulfilling life.
Follow Angelo Valenti:Website: https://thecompanypsychologist.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelovalentiphd/
Allan Misner is a NASM certified personal trainer, Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Health Coach, host of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, and author of the award-winning book The Wellness Roadmap.
Most people think weight loss is about finding the right diet or workout program. Here's the thing - Allan spent eight years trapped in an endless cycle of losing weight, gaining it back, and gaining more. Over and over again. The wake-up call came on a beach in Mexico at 39 when he couldn't get through a single game of volleyball. But it took another eight years and a conversation with his daughter before he finally cracked the code. The problem wasn't willpower - it was the lies we tell ourselves about food, hunger, and what it actually takes to change.
Expect to learn why most people who think they're doing 80/20 are actually doing 53/47, how processed foods are engineered specifically to make you overeat, the simple photo accountability trick that stops emotional eating in its tracks, why your brain confuses cravings with real hunger and what to do about it, the evolutionary reason our bodies are wired to feast on sugar and how to work with your biology instead of against it, why whole foods automatically regulate your appetite while processed foods don't, what separates people who lose weight and keep it off from chronic yo-yo dieters, and much more.
This conversation will challenge how you think about nutrition, willpower, and what it really takes to transform your health after 40.
Follow Allan Misner:Website: 40plusfitness.comPodcast: 40+ Fitness PodcastInstagram: @coachallanm
Daniel is an engineer turned anxiety researcher, founder of Full Liberation Technology, and former stand-up comedian who spent 8 years and over $1 million developing a results-based approach to eliminating anxiety permanently.
Here's the thing most people don't realize about anxiety: it doesn't start in your mind. You never say "I think anxious" - you say "I feel anxious." And you feel it in your throat, your chest, your stomach. The entire mental health industry has been sending people to the wrong location for decades. Daniel spent 10 years and $100,000 trying every traditional approach - therapy, coaching, meditation, self-help - and stayed stuck. As an engineer, he finally asked a different question: what if anxiety isn't a mind problem at all, but a nervous system malfunction?
Expect to learn why the trillion-dollar "improvement industrial complex" keeps people stuck managing symptoms instead of eliminating them, how Daniel's research with monks in India showed meditation time could drop from 2 hours to 15 minutes by addressing root causes, why his work with addicts in South Africa through SANCA revealed something profound about healing, the mechanical reason your body feels fear first and your mind spins second, what the "spin cycle" is and why you can't think your way out of it, why therapists typically help only a third of their clients while his program has a 90% success rate, how feeling safe from the inside out transforms your relationships, work, and energy levels, what his decade as a stand-up comedian taught him about innovating solutions, and much more.
This conversation will challenge everything you've been told about where anxiety comes from and what it takes to actually be free of it.aniel is an engineer turned anxiety researcher, founder of Full Liberation Technology, and former stand-up comedian who spent 8 years and over $1 million developing a results-based approach to eliminating anxiety permanently.
Here's the thing most people don't realize about anxiety: it doesn't start in your mind. You never say "I think anxious" - you say "I feel anxious." And you feel it in your throat, your chest, your stomach. The entire mental health industry has been sending people to the wrong location for decades. Daniel spent 10 years and $100,000 trying every traditional approach - therapy, coaching, meditation, self-help - and stayed stuck. As an engineer, he finally asked a different question: what if anxiety isn't a mind problem at all, but a nervous system malfunction?
Expect to learn why the trillion-dollar "improvement industrial complex" keeps people stuck managing symptoms instead of eliminating them, how Daniel's research with monks in India showed meditation time could drop from 2 hours to 15 minutes by addressing root causes, why his work with addicts in South Africa through SANCA revealed something profound about healing, the mechanical reason your body feels fear first and your mind spins second, what the "spin cycle" is and why you can't think your way out of it, why therapists typically help only a third of their clients while his program has a 90% success rate, how feeling safe from the inside out transforms your relationships, work, and energy levels, what his decade as a stand-up comedian taught him about innovating solutions, and much more.
This conversation will challenge everything you've been told about where anxiety comes from and what it takes to actually be free of it.
Victoria Minch is a burnout recovery specialist, former Silicon Valley executive, and founder of Silicon Valley Executive Academy.
Burnout has become an epidemic, especially among high achievers. But here's the thing - most people think the solution is to quit their job, move to a tropical island, or make some other radical external change. The problem? You take yourself with you. Victoria spent 25 years in Silicon Valley management before discovering that the key to lasting change isn't external, it's internal.
Expect to learn why psychology PhDs end up working in high-tech startups, the difference between stress and burnout that most people miss, why changing jobs won't fix burnout if you don't change yourself first, the physiological reasons why your body gets stuck in chronic stress mode, practical techniques to actually complete your stress cycle instead of letting it accumulate, how to build self-care practices that aren't just Instagram wellness culture BS, why relinquishing control is one of the most powerful moves a leader can make, what work-life harmony actually means and why balance is the wrong goal, and much more.
This conversation will challenge how you think about success, achievement, and what it actually takes to build a sustainable, fulfilling career.
Follow Victoria:LinkedIn: Victoria MinchWebsite: SVexecutive.academy
Dr. Lara May is a functional medicine pharmacist specializing in gut health, mental health, and type 2 diabetes.
The gut-brain connection isn't pseudoscience—it's biology. 95% of your neurotransmitters are manufactured in your gut, which means your mental health is directly tied to your digestive health. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or brain fog, the answer might not be in your head.
Expect to learn why Western medicine keeps you on medications for life instead of solving root causes, what leaky gut actually means and how to recognize it, the shocking connection between type 2 diabetes and mental health, why your fiber intake might be making things worse, how vitamin D deficiency destroys your sleep and mood, the real reason functional medicine costs more upfront but saves you money long-term, which neurotransmitters control your happiness and where they come from, and much more.
00:00 Introduction & Welcome
02:03 Why She Left Traditional Pharmacy for Functional Medicine
04:08 The Western vs Eastern Medicine Debate
06:10 Type 2 Diabetes & Mental Health Connection
08:13 Where Your Happy Chemicals Actually Come From
12:35 Why Western Medicine Keeps You on Pills Forever
16:39 The Truth About Fiber (And When It Hurts You)
19:07 Vitamin Deficiencies You Don't Know You Have
22:53 The Biological Side of Mental Health
27:26 What Leaky Gut Actually Feels Like
31:19 How to Find the Right Practitioner for You
Follow Dr. Lara May:
Podcast: Lightbody Radio
Listen to all episodes on the Mental Meters Podcast
In this enlightening episode of "Mental Matters," join us as we delve into the world of holistic healing with our guest, Nisha. We explore the intricate connections between the mind, body, and spirit, and discuss how belief systems and lifestyle choices impact our overall well-being. Discover practical tips for improving mental health, the importance of setting goals, and the power of self-love. Tune in to learn how to become the architect of your future and embrace a holistic approach to life.
This conversation delves into the complexities of maternal health, focusing on the importance of self-worth, the challenges of postpartum depression, and the necessity of a supportive network for new mothers. Dr. Wilson shares her personal journey and insights from her book 'Post', emphasizing the need for women to prioritize their health and well-being during and after pregnancy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Maternal Health Conversations
02:53 The Importance of Self-Worth in Parenting
05:38 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
08:39 Understanding Postpartum Depression
11:30 The Role of Nutrition and Self-Care
14:28 Creating a Support System
17:17 The Impact of Maternal Mental Health
19:49 Insights from the Book 'Post'
22:42 Refocusing the Message on Postpartum Wellness
25:29 Addressing Healthcare System Flaws
28:23 Final Thoughts on Maternal Health Awareness
In this conversation, Kelly Majdan discusses the unpredictability of life and how it often diverges from our expectations. She emphasizes the importance of resilience and facing challenges head-on, drawing parallels between life's obstacles and those encountered in an obstacle course.
In this conversation, Elizabeth Bennett discusses the alarming rise of bullying and mental health issues among youth, emphasizing the toxic environments they navigate. She highlights the detrimental effects of social media, where children seek validation in a virtual world that often presents an unrealistic facade. Bennett encourages parents to engage in open conversations with their children about their struggles and experiences.
The conversation delves into the topic of suicide ideation, exploring how it is a common experience among individuals, particularly in a classroom setting. Asekho Toto shares personal experiences with suicide ideation, highlighting the normalization of such thoughts among peers and the importance of support in overcoming these feelings.
In this conversation, Asekho Toto emphasizes the importance of making time for oneself, especially for mothers who often prioritize their children's needs over their own. She discusses the necessity of self-reflection and creating space in one's day to foster awareness and personal growth.
In this episode, Sarah Wilson shares a deeply personal journey through the challenges of managing type 1 diabetes and the unexpected wake-up call of a heart attack. Discover how self-care, mental resilience, and informed nutrition play pivotal roles in health management. Sarah emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and personal accountability in navigating the healthcare system. Tune in to learn about the transformative power of habit tracking, the significance of gut health, and the empowering message of meeting yourself where you are.
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Sarah Wilson Website: https://www.everythingsmessywellness.com/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everythings-messy-podcast-by-sarah-wilson/id1481261318
In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of entrepreneurship and the power of women's empowerment. Join us as we explore personal growth stories, overcoming challenges, and the importance of community and collaboration. Discover how to harness your inner strength and achieve your dreams, no matter the obstacles. Tune in for insights, motivation, and actionable advice to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit and empower your path to success.
In this episode, we delve into the essential elements of personal and professional growth. Discover how mental wellbeing is key to unlocking your full potential and why businesses should strive for impact beyond profit. Learn from failures and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. We explore the dynamic between motivation and discipline, and why celebrating small wins is crucial for sustained success. Join us as we uncover strategies to live in alignment with your full potential and transform your goals into meaningful journeys.
In this conversation, Asekho Toto discusses the importance of connecting with one's inner coach and the role of self-compassion in personal growth. Through reflective questioning, Toto encourages individuals to treat themselves with the same kindness and understanding they would offer to a best friend, highlighting the often contrasting ways people engage in self-talk versus how they support others.
Explore the transformative power of advocacy in this episode focused on accessibility and mental health. Our guests share their journeys and the impact of their work in fostering inclusion. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the status quo.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Accessibility and Disability Advocacy
02:29 Navigating Education and Advocacy for Neurodivergent Children
05:46 Understanding Psychological Barriers in Corporate Settings
08:27 The Intersection of Mental Health and Disability
11:23 Challenges in Policy and Institutional Support
14:43 Balancing Personal and Professional Advocacy
17:22 The Importance of Communication in Advocacy
20:11 Convincing Corporations to Embrace Accessibility
23:30 The Future of Accessibility in Learning Environments
In this episode of Mental Matters, host Asekho sits down with Tracy Hall, an identity-based coach who shares her powerful journey of being diagnosed with autism at age 32. Tracy opens up about the challenges of growing up feeling "different," the emotional rollercoaster of denial, anger, and eventual acceptance, and how women often mask their symptoms to fit in. Discover how rewriting limiting beliefs and embracing your authentic self can transform your life, plus practical tips on identity-based coaching to overcome self-doubt and build confidence. Whether you're navigating neurodiversity, mental health, or personal growth, this conversation shatters misconceptions about autism and celebrates the strength in being uniquely you. Tune in for relatable stories, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on living empowered—perfect for anyone seeking inspiration to rewrite their own narrative!
High achievers often wait for permission before they act. In this Mental Matters conversation, Asekho Toto explores how self-validation, perspective, and daily habits can break cycles of anxiety and depression. Our guest shares his story growing up as the only Black kid in largely white spaces, losing his father to suicide at birth, failing exams, and still pushing through nursing school—then building a coaching practice that integrates mindset training, exercise, and macro-nutrition to improve mental health. We dig into faith vs. external approval, why relapse is part of recovery, and how the gut–brain link changes mood more than most people realize. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.High achievers often wait for permission before they act. In this Mental Matters conversation, Asekho Toto explores how self-validation, perspective, and daily habits can break cycles of anxiety and depression. Our guest shares his story growing up as the only Black kid in largely white spaces, losing his father to suicide at birth, failing exams, and still pushing through nursing school—then building a coaching practice that integrates mindset training, exercise, and macro-nutrition to improve mental health. We dig into faith vs. external approval, why relapse is part of recovery, and how the gut–brain link changes mood more than most people realize. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.
What if your ambition was born from pain? In this deeply human episode, Asekho Toto sits down with a trauma specialist to discuss how unprocessed experiences shape identity, drive, and the constant need to prove yourself.
Together, they reveal how high achievers often use success to mask unhealed wounds — and how awareness, body-based healing, and vulnerability can turn pain into purpose.