We open 2026 with this deeply human episode of Mindful Moments, we sit with Celeste Friedman—author, entrepreneur, and film producer—for an honest conversation about what it truly means to heal. Celeste opens up about her journey through depression, seeking support through medication, and navigating the grief and identity shifts that came with divorce. She shares what the cocoon phase of healing really looks like—the quiet, unseen work of choosing yourself when life feels broken. From there, the conversation unfolds into transformation. Inspired by her book Butterfly and her film Love & Karma, Celeste reflects on how healing helped her break old patterns, approach relationships with greater awareness, and eventually open her heart to love again—this time, consciously. This episode is a gentle reminder that healing isn’t about erasing the past. It’s about becoming aware enough to choose differently, love intentionally, and honor the growth that pain can bring. ✨ In this episode, we explore:• Living through depression and the courage to ask for help• The emotional aftermath of divorce and identity loss• The cocoon phase of healing no one talks about• Breaking karmic patterns in love and relationships• Finding clarity, purpose, and love again after heartbreak• What conscious, mindful love really looks like If you’re navigating heartbreak, personal transformation, or learning how to love again—this conversation is for you. #MindfulMomentsPodcast #HealingJourney #ConsciousLove #MentalHealthMatters#Transformation #ButterflyEffect #LoveAndKarma #EmotionalHealing  

What happens when the life you once knew no longer fits—and you’re asked to begin again? In this powerful episode of Mindful Moments, we sit down with Kim Delos Santos, a former Philippine actress who crossed oceans after heartbreak, navigated body image struggles shaped by life in the public eye, and rebuilt her life in the United States. Kim opens up about leaving behind a familiar career, starting over in a new country, and embracing nursing—not as an escape, but as a path toward healing and purpose. The conversation gently explores the mental health impact of loss and transition, including grief after the recent passing of her mother, the emotional weight of reinvention, and what it means to hold space for others while doing your own healing. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, Kim reflects on how lived experience has shaped the way she cares for patients—with empathy, presence, and compassion. This episode is a reminder that healing is not linear, identity is not fixed, and rebuilding the self doesn’t mean erasing who you were. It means learning how to stay—with grief, with growth, and with yourself—one mindful moment at a time.   #MindfulMoments #CrossingOceansRebuildingSelf #MentalHealthConversations#HealingJourney #StartingOver #GriefAndHealing #BodyImageAwareness#ImmigrantStory #PMHNP

In this powerful Mindful Moments episode, we sit down with Dr. Tracy Hicks — President of Texas Nurse Practitioners, Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Tyler, Doctor of Nursing Practice, national board leader, and advocate for inclusive, equitable healthcare. Together, we explore why emotional intelligence is not a “soft skill,” but a core part of clinical competence and a crucial foundation for modern nursing leadership. Dr. Hicks breaks down: ✨ How emotional intelligence shows up in real clinical practice ✨ Why nurses recognize distress in others but often miss it in themselves ✨ The impact of self-stigma in serious mental illness — and what primary care providers must understand ✨ What leadership in nursing should be built on today ✨ The importance of joining nursing fellowships and professional organizations ✨ How she protects her own mental health while leading, teaching, and advocating ✨ Practical ways nurses can cultivate self-awareness and emotional resilience This conversation is a reminder that caring for patients begins with caring for ourselves — and that the future of healthcare depends on emotionally intelligent leaders who can listen, connect, and lead with heart. Tune in and grow with us. New episodes every Saturday. #MindfulMoments #EmotionalIntelligence #NursingLeadership #MentalHealthMatters #NurseLife #HealthcareLeadership #ClinicalCompetence

In this Mindful Moments episode, Dr. Sonia Luckey helps us understand two powerful practices that anyone can start today: calming the body through simple coherence techniques, and naming our emotions to create clarity and inner safety. We explore why the heart and mind sync when we slow down, why emotional vocabulary is often so limited, and how naming what we feel can shift our entire experience.Perfect for beginners — especially during the busy holiday season — this episode offers down-to-earth tools you can use anytime life feels heavy, chaotic, or emotionally loud. Tune in, breathe with us, and learn how to feel more grounded, more aware, and more connected to yourself. #MindfulMoments #CalmingTheBody #NamingTheFeeling #EmotionalVocabulary #CoherencePractice #MentalHealthTools   

In this powerful episode of Mindful Moments, Dr. Peter Morante sits down with Dr. Sheldon D. Fields — Associate Dean for Equity and Inclusion at Penn State Nese College of Nursing and President of the National Black Nurses Association — for a raw and timely conversation on equity, leadership, and the mental health realities facing communities of color. Dr. Fields breaks down the mental and emotional impact of racism, the silent burdens carried by marginalized and immigrant communities, and the unique pressures faced by nurses of color navigating bias, microaggressions, and burnout across the profession. The discussion goes deeper as Dr. Fields shares his insights on the U.S. Department of Education’s recent move to exclude nursing from its list of “professional degrees,” unpacking the consequences for access, financing, mental health, and the future nursing workforce — especially among underrepresented communities. Through his lens as NBNA President, Dr. Fields also reflects on the responsibility of representation, the power of advocacy, and what true equity-driven leadership demands today. This episode is a grounding, eye-opening, and deeply human exploration of the challenges and possibilities facing healthcare — and a call for all of us to lead with courage, compassion, and clarity. Topics include: • Racism & structural inequities in healthcare • Mental health challenges affecting people of color and immigrants • Burnout & emotional labor among nurses of color • The DOE’s reclassification of nursing and its implications • Representation, leadership, and the future of the nursing workforce • Healing, advocacy, and actionable steps for change Listen in and stay mindful. New episodes of Mindful Moments stream weekly.   #MindfulMoments #NursingLeaders #NursingisaProfessionalDegree #EquityinHealthcare

In this powerful episode of Mindful Moments with Pedro, we sit down with Ranella Ferrer—award-winning singer, FilAm trailblazer, and widely known as The National Anthem Queen. From performing on iconic stages across America to becoming a voice for the voiceless, Ranella opens up about the fortitude behind her journey. She shares raw, honest reflections on:✨ Growing up Filipina-American in the entertainment world✨ Her emotional breakthrough on Revenge Body with Khloe Kardashian✨ Battling self-doubt, depression, and the pressure to “be perfect”✨ Why she advocates for suicide prevention and mental health awareness✨ Finding purpose through pain, and strength in authenticity As the holiday and Thanksgiving season approaches, Ranella reminds us of the power of grounding, gratitude, and leaning into community—especially when life feels heavy. This is a conversation about healing, identity, and reclaiming your voice.A reminder that you are worthy. You are seen. And you are never alone. 🎧 Tune in and let this episode uplift your spirit.   #MindfulMoments #RanellaFerrer #Authenticity 

In this deeply personal episode of Mindful Moments, world-class performer and the Voice Kids Philippines coach Billy Crawford steps out from behind the spotlight and shares a raw, honest look at the battles he once hid from the world. From global fame to silent struggles, Billy opens up about his journey through alcoholism, depression, and hitting rock bottom—and the moment he finally chose to ask for help. He talks about: ✨ The pressures of early fame ✨ The turning point that saved his life ✨ The power of faith in rebuilding his spirit ✨ How family grounded him, inspired him, and helped him heal ✨ His renewed sense of purpose as a father, husband, and artist This is Billy like you’ve never heard him: transparent, reflective, and full of hard-won wisdom. A story of courage, healing, and choosing the light — one day at a time. 🎙️ Tune in and be inspired. Healing begins when we speak our truth.   #MindfulMomentsLIVE #BillyCrawford #FaithAndHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #SobrietyJourney #BeyondTheSpotlight      

In this heart-opening episode of Mindful Moments, we sit down with Dr. Janette Moreno—nurse leader, educator, Caritas Coach, and the inspiring Chief Enthusiastic Officer—to explore how kindness, enthusiasm, and mindful leadership can transform the way we heal and care. Dr. Moreno shares the story behind her joyful title, the powerful moments of kindness that shaped her journey, and how compassion and mindfulness can help nurses and healthcare workers rediscover meaning, resilience, and hope. We also dive into her beautiful book, Human Caring Through Healing Haiku, the role of poetry in reflective practice, and her mission through Nurture HOPE to support the mental health of Filipino nurses in Southern California. Whether you’re in healthcare or simply seeking a more grounded, heart-led way to show up in the world, this episode invites you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters. Listen in—and let one small act of kindness create a ripple around you today. 💛   #MindfulMomentsPodcast#HealingPowerOfKindness#DrJanetteMoreno#ChiefEnthusiasticOfficer#MindfulLeadership#CompassionInHealthcare

In this Mindful Moments episode, Pedro Morante talks with Dr. Maria Reila Molina, DNP, ACNP-BC, AGACNP-BC, FAANP — a trailblazing nurse leader, educator, and advocate transforming the way we view nursing beyond the bedside. From her humble beginnings in Laguna, Philippines, to becoming faculty at Rutgers University and Course Director for the 2025 Penn Medicine Transplant Symposium, Dr. Molina’s journey is a story of grit, grace, and growth. Together, they explore how mindfulness, representation, and innovation intersect in nursing — from transplant care to teaching Health Information Systems Technology (HIST) for DNPs, and bridging genetics, evidence, and AI in modern healthcare. Listen in and discover how nurses can lead with heart, teach with purpose, and design solutions for real-world impact.   #MindfulMomentsPodcast #BeyondTheBedside #NurseLeadership #GlobalNurseLeader #NurseMentorship #FIlipinoPride #TransplantNursing

In this episode of Mindful Moments with Pedro Morante, we sit down with Dr. Stephen A. Ferrara, Immediate Past President of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the inaugural Associate Dean of Artificial Intelligence at Columbia University School of Nursing. With over two decades of clinical and policy leadership, Dr. Ferrara has helped shape the landscape of modern nursing — from leading the passage of New York’s NP Modernization Act to pioneering discussions on the ethical and practical integration of AI in healthcare. Together, Pedro and Stephen explore how nurse practitioners and healthcare leaders can embrace innovation without losing sight of the human connection that defines healing. Tune in as they discuss:💡 The promise and challenges of AI in healthcare💬 Lessons from Dr. Ferrara’s leadership with AANP❤️ Balancing evidence-based practice with empathy and presence🌍 What the future of healthcare could look like when technology and compassion coexist This is a must-listen episode for nurses, clinicians, students, and anyone passionate about the mindful evolution of modern medicine. 🗓️ Catch new episodes of Mindful Moments every week on Spotify, YouTube, and other streaming platforms. #MindfulMoments #PedroMorante #DrStephenFerrara #AIinHealthcare #NursePractitioners #MindfulLeadership

In this episode of Mindful Moments, we sit down with Tracy Wilson, a dedicated nurse leader, educator, and patient advocate whose work goes far beyond traditional bedside care. Tracy shares her inspiring journey of expanding her impact—bridging communication gaps between healthcare providers and patients, championing equitable access to care, and empowering the next generation of nurses to find purpose and balance in their profession. 🌿 Together, we explore: 🩺 What it means to serve beyond the bedside 💙 The power of patient advocacy and education 🧠 The importance of mental health and mindfulness for healthcare providers ✨ How nurses can discover their unique voice and create meaningful change Whether you’re a nursing professional, student, or advocate for compassionate healthcare, this episode will remind you that nursing doesn’t end at the bedside—it begins there. 🎙️ Tune in, reflect, and be inspired to lead with empathy, purpose, and courage.   #MindfulMoments #BeyondTheBedside #NurseLeadership #PatientAdvocacy #MentalHealthInNursing #PsychUpMentalServices

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Pedro Morante sits down with physician-turned-actor/screenwriter/producer, and now director Mark Labella to explore how the realities of medicine—trauma, loss, and resilience—shaped his creative journey in film. Mark opens up about transforming pain into purpose, the healing power of storytelling, and how creativity can become a bridge toward understanding and hope. Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how healing doesn’t always happen in hospitals—sometimes, it happens through art. 🎧✨   #MindfulMomentsPodcast #MarkLabella #DrPedroMorante #MentalHealthAwareness #Storytelling #HealingThroughArt #Resilience #MedicineAndMovies #MindfulLiving

From the Boston Marathon medical tents to Columbia University’s classrooms, Dr. Ian West’s journey redefines what it means to lead as a modern nurse practitioner. In this episode of Mindful Moments, Dr. Ian shares how his roots in mental health shaped his leadership lens—and how today’s NPs can lead beyond the bedside. Together, we explore the intersection of policy, biotech, telehealth, and AI, and how nurses can play a crucial role in shaping—not just adapting to—the future of healthcare. He also opens up about staying grounded in purpose while navigating innovation, misinformation, and rapid change. 🎧 In this conversation: From RN to NP to systems leader: the evolution of purpose Nurses’ role in the digital age of misinformation The importance of policy and biotech literacy Preparing for AI-driven healthcare Staying rooted in care while leading with innovation #MindfulMoments #NurseLeadership #AIinHealthcare #HealthcareInnovation #DigitalHealth #NursePractitioner #MentalHealth #LeadershipJourney

What happens when childhood bullying leaves marks that no one else can see? In this special episode of Mindful Moments, we open October Mental Health Month with soul artist Luke Mejares, who shares his deeply personal journey of growing up mixed-race, being bullied for the color of his skin, and navigating the pain of rejection — including the moment he finally met his biological father but wasn’t welcomed. Luke opens up about identity, resilience, and how music became his sanctuary and source of healing. Together, we explore: What bullying really means and why it hurts so deeply How race and identity shape children’s sense of belonging The lasting effects of bullying on mental health Why early intervention and compassion matter How shifting labels like “bully” and “victim” can better support kids’ wellbeing The power of creativity and passion in rewriting your story ✨ This is a conversation about scars, strength, and the rhythm of resilience. Whether you’ve lived through bullying, supported someone who has, or simply believe in the importance of kindness — this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in and let Luke’s story inspire you to see beyond the scars, and into the strength they can reveal.

In this episode of Mindful Moments, we sit down with Dr. Josh Hamilton — NEI Master Psychopharmacologist, two-time America’s Top Psychiatric NP, and nationally recognized expert in telepsychiatry, neurobiology, and psychopharmacology. Together, we explore a challenge nearly everyone faces today: mental overstimulation in a world that never slows down. From constant notifications to emotional overload, what is this doing to our brains and bodies? And more importantly — what can we do about it? Dr. Hamilton shares his insights on: -How chronic overstimulation rewires our brain and impacts mental health -The role of telepsychiatry in making care more accessible and personal -When medication can support recovery — and when lifestyle shifts matter most -The future of mental health care in an always-on culture   Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or simply someone trying to find calm in the chaos, this episode offers science-backed insights and practical steps to reclaim your mental space.   ✨ It’s time to pause, reflect, and take one mindful step toward balance.

Turning a dream into a thriving mental health practice takes more than passion — it takes grit, growth, and a whole lot of heart. 💛 In this episode of Mindful Moments, Alysha Woods, PMHNP, pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to build a private practice from the ground up. From the fears and failures to the breakthroughs and wins, she shares the unfiltered journey of launching and leading her own mental health clinic. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own practice, or just want to be inspired by the power of resilience and vision, this conversation is for you. 🌱 #MindfulMoments #PrivatePracticeJourney #PMHNP #MentalHealthLeaders

“What if mastering clinical practice meant thinking less like a textbook… and more like a trailblazer?” 🎙️ Episode 7: From Bootcamp to Boardroom — PMHNP Clinical Mastery with Lindsay Hill This week, Pedro Morante sits down with the brilliant Dr. Lindsay Hill, PMHNP, DNP, (@PsychNPCEO) for a refreshing and real conversation about what it truly takes to thrive as a PMHNP — beyond the textbooks and training camps. Together, they unpack common misconceptions about bootcamps and explore how we can move from rigid, one-size-fits-all teaching to a more dynamic, real-world approach rooted in clinical evidence and creativity. Dr. Lindsay also shares her passion for supporting the mental health of PMHNPs, innovative ways to deliver patient-centered care, and how reconnecting with your “why” can reignite your purpose in this work. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by traditional approaches or wondered how to keep growing while staying true to yourself and your patients — this episode is for you. 💛 💼 Listen now and join the conversation — because PMHNP clinical mastery isn’t just about skills, it’s about heart. #MindfulMoments #PMHNP #ClinicalMastery #PsychNurseLife #MentalHealthLeadership

🌈 Mindful Moments Episode 6: Pride & Peace 🌿 True peace often begins when we are fully seen. In this episode, Dr. Pedro Morante welcomes Dr. Travis Brown, PMHNP, DNP, to reflect on the realities of LGBTQIA+ mental health—from the hidden burdens many carry, to the quiet resilience that fuels their journeys. Their conversation invites us to pause and consider: how do identity, belonging, and compassion shape our path toward healing? And how can we create spaces where pride is not just celebrated, but honored as a source of strength? This dialogue is more than a discussion—it’s a gentle call to listen, to understand, and to stand alongside one another in the pursuit of both pride and peace. 🎧 Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts. #MindfulMoments #PrideAndPeace #LGBTQMentalHealth #HealingThroughUnderstanding

In this powerful conversation, we welcome Aiza Marquez—a former young actress in the Philippines and now a devoted mother—who opens up about her journey of self-validation, motherhood, and self-love. Aiza shares how she refused to let herself be consumed by postpartum depression. Instead, she chose courage, faith, and the mindful decision to prioritize her mental health. Through honesty and reflection, she reveals the daily practices and mindset shifts that helped her embrace motherhood while still holding on to her identity and self-worth. Her story is a gentle reminder that motherhood is not just about giving—it’s also about protecting your own well-being, finding strength in vulnerability, and learning to love yourself even more deeply. 💙 ✨ Whether you are a nurse, a parent, or anyone navigating life’s challenges, Aiza’s journey will inspire you to rise above self-doubt and choose resilience over despair. 🎧 Tune in to this heartfelt episode and let her story spark your own path to healing, courage, and mindful living. #MindfulMoments #PedroMorante #AizaMarquez #MotherhoodJourney #PostpartumAwareness #SelfLove #Resilience

On this fourth episode of Mindful Moments with Pedro Morante, we sit down with global sensation 4th Impact—four sisters (Almira, Irene, Mylene, and Celina Cercado) whose voices have wowed the world, from humble beginnings to the world’s biggest stages. They open up about:💞 The unshakable bond of sisterhood through life’s highs and lows🌍 The whirlwind of fame after The X Factor UK💔 The unseen emotional weight behind the spotlight🎶 How music has been their therapy—and their gift to the world💡 The meaning of success, balance, and purpose beyond the stage It’s a heartfelt, raw, and inspiring conversation about chasing dreams while staying true to yourself—and finding harmony in the middle of it all. 🎧 Listen now and feel the power of music, family, and resilience. #MindfulMoments #4thImpact #PedroMorante #Sisterhood #MentalHealth #MusicHeals #FameAndWellness