Welcome to Episode 1 of REAL TALK Season 3: This is High Ki Living — where healing, resilience, and personal transformation meet real stories from extraordinary people. In our season premiere, hosts Emma G and Dinah Simpson are joined by two powerhouse motivators whose missions, methods, and lived experiences remind us that movement — physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual — is medicine. Meet Laurent AmzallagFitness expert, motivational speaker, and creator of the YALA movement, Laurent is known across the DMV for his high-energy inspiration and joyful approach to wellness. After surviving a medical crisis with a 50/50 chance of recovery, Laurent discovered firsthand the healing power of movement — and dedicated his life to helping others tap into their own vitality, humor, and strength. Meet Doug ByrdPilot, youth mentor, and founder of Byrd Inspiration Airshows, Doug uses aviation as a tool to uplift and empower young people. Raised in an environment of positivity, encouragement, and possibility, Doug believes every child deserves to know what’s possible for them. His mission: breathe life and purpose into the next generation by giving them access to aviation, mindset tools, and an unstoppable belief in themselves. In this powerful episode, we explore:- How movement, mindset, and discipline shape mental and emotional well-being- The healing connection between the body, breath, confidence, and action- How aviation becomes a vehicle for possibility, courage, and identity for young people- The importance of joy, humility, humor, and community in personal transformation- What it means to raise your vibration — physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually If you’re ready for an episode that will leave you inspired, energized, and reminded of your own power to rise, this is the perfect way to launch Season 3. Connect with Laurent AmzallagWebsite: https://laurentamzallag.comInstagram: @laurentamzallagFacebook: Laurent AmzallagLinkedIn: Laurent Amzallag Connect with Doug ByrdFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dougiebyrdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/byrdinspirationairshows/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-byrd-227a8a225TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@byrdinspirationairshows ABOUT THE HOSTSAbout Emma GEmma G is a singer-songwriter, empowerment coach, TEDx speaker, and #1 bestselling author. Having survived 10 brain surgeries for hydrocephalus, she transformed her lived experience into a mission: helping others reclaim their voice, rewrite their stories, and build emotional and mental resilience through music, somatic expression, and trauma-informed coaching. Website: https://emmagmusic.com About Dinah SimpsonDinah Simpson is the founder of High Ki Living, a mindfulness and energy-healing practice helping busy minds find calm, clarity, and balance. Through breathwork, meditation, sound healing, Reiki, and grounding lifestyle practices, Dinah supports individuals and organizations in overcoming burnout and reconnecting with their inner wisdom. Website: https://dinahsimpson.com

Join us as we chat with Kari Swenson – multi-business owner, leader of 480 employees, and passionate advocate for people-first leadership – for Episode 16 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. Kari’s career spans decades in both the retail and restaurant industries, including her role as Owner/Operator of 12 McDonald’s restaurants across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. She also owns a thriving e-commerce and retail business importing Polish Pottery from Bolesławiec, Poland. Her leadership philosophy is simple: treat people well, connect with them, help them grow—and they’ll stick around. She has seen team members go from working the front counter to managing entire stores, living out her personal motto: “As you look to the stars, always try to turn around and bring someone with you.” In this episode, we explore: Why people-first leadership is the secret to her business success How she creates growth opportunities for her team The importance of focusing on what you can control How Krav Maga taught her to “get comfortable being uncomfortable” The connection between creativity, resilience, and leadership Plus: why process matters more than outcome in both business and life If you believe great leadership is about empowering people and building community, you’ll love this conversation. Connect with Kari SwensonInstagram: @kariswensonFacebook (Personal): facebook.com/kari.swenson1Facebook (Business): facebook.com/ThePolishPotteryOutletLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kariswenson Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #KariSwenson #PeopleFirstLeadership #BusinessOwner #McDonaldsOwnerOperator #LeadershipInAction #TeamGrowth #KravMagaMindset #WomenWhoLead #CommunityFocusedBusiness #ResilientLeadership #EmpoweringOthers

Join us as we chat with Terri Long – CEO of T2T Media, cohost of Spotlight Over The City, and creator of the powerful Trauma 2 Triumph Project – for Episode 15 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. Terri is on a mission to amplify the voices of women who have survived unimaginable trauma and gone on to live triumphant, purpose-filled lives. Through her groundbreaking T2T Project: Trauma 2 Triumph, Terri is shining a light on real stories of resilience and healing from women around the world. Her journey into media began unexpectedly when her husband, author and filmmaker Stan Long, asked her to cohost his show Spotlight Over The City “just for a little while.” That one moment turned into a full-time partnership in life and business, with the couple now hosting one of the most beloved Black-led streaming TV talk shows, featuring guests like Tito Jackson, Israel Houghton, Vivian Green, Misa Hylton, and more. In this episode, we explore: The origin story of Trauma 2 Triumph and how Terri connects with women survivors What it’s like to work side by side with her husband, and what they’ve built together The importance of storytelling in healing trauma Why her most cherished role is being a mom and wife—and how that grounds everything she does Plus: how she’s turning pain into purpose through film, podcasting, and legacy-building If you believe in the power of healing and storytelling, this episode will move and inspire you.

Join us as we chat with Jennifer Hamady – voice coach, psychotherapist, performer, and author – for Episode 14 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. Singing came naturally to Jennifer since she was a child. But everything changed when her formal vocal training in college left her disconnected from the very thing she loved most - her voice. After losing her voice physically and emotionally, Jennifer began a journey to undo everything that wasn’t working and to reconnect with her true, authentic sound. Now Jennifer helps others—singers, speakers, performers, executives, and creatives—find their true voice, and express it with power, grace, and freedom. In this episode, we explore: How our histories lead to stored emotion that impact our voices How vocal, emotional, and performance issues are often deeply intertwined What it really means to “find your voice,” and why so many of us feel disconnected from it Plus: how to express yourself more fully—on stage, in the boardroom, and in your own life If you’ve ever felt stuck, silenced, or unsure how to speak or sing your truth, this episode will guide you back home to your most powerful and joyful expression. Connect with Jennifer HamadyInstagram: instagram.com/jennifer_hamadyWebsite: https://findingyourvoice.com/ Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #JenniferHamady #FindingYourVoice #VoiceCoach #ExpressYourself #PerformancePsychology #VocalFreedom #PublicSpeaking #CreativeExpression #WomenWhoLead #Authenticity #HealingThroughVoice

Join us as we chat with Eli Lev, singer–songwriter, musician, spiritual storyteller, and founder of the Levitators community, for Episode 13 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. From the Navajo Nation to the Kennedy Center, Eli Lev is making the world feel more connected—one heartfelt song at a time. The Maryland-based singer-songwriter writes music for everyday enlightenment, weaving together stories of travel, transformation, and timeless wisdom. In this episode, we explore:Eli's approach to songwriting and music, and where it all started Why music can be a tool for emotional healing and global connection What it means to tell personal stories that unlock something universal in all of us The deep intersection of past, present, and future in Eli’s creative process Plus: what he’s learned from performing across six continents and 40+ states If you’re a lover of music, meaning, and art that bridges hearts and cultures, this episode is for you. Connect with Eli LevInstagram: instagram.com/elilevmusicWebsite: https://eli-lev.com Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #EliLev #ThreeWorldsProject #FolkMusic #SingerSongwriter #IndieFolk #CulturalStorytelling #HealingThroughMusic #PastLives #PresentJourney #FutureMyths #GlobalMusic #MusicForTheSoul #SpiritualArtistry

Join us as we chat with Stephen Warner – husband, father, youth pastor turned entrepreneur, musician, and founder of Young Founders Academy – for Episode 12 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. Stephen’s journey has been anything but ordinary. From leading after-school programs to building a multiple 7-figure business with Modern Musician, to becoming a first-time dad, and the moment a kid named Jake knocked on his door and asked to mow his lawn which sparked the creation of Young Founders Academy. In this episode, we explore: - How Stephen’s background in ministry, mentorship, and business all led to founding Young Founders Academy- Why entreprenuership and what it can do for our youth- What it takes to raise up a generation of confident, capable youth who lead with purpose- Plus: the impact of AI on education, fatherhood, and entrepreneurship If you're a parent, educator, or future-focused leader who believes in empowering the next generation – this episode will move you, challenge you, and leave you inspired. Connect with StephenWebsite: https://youngfounders.com/ Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube.

S2 EP11 "Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This" - Defy Constraints Differently featuring Meg Trucano Join us as we chat with Creative Strategist, Designer, and Marketer Greg Roland for Episode 10 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This.  Join us as we chat with Meg Trucano Psychology-based Confidence Coach  for Episode 11 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. With a Phd in Psychology, Meg works with high-achieving business women who are ready to make a significant change in their lives, careers, or lifestyles. She lives for the moments when clients tell her that they’ve seen something differently, or they’ve been able to approach the same problem in a new way that helps them move past it. In this episode, we explore: Where Meg started, and how she got into coaching high-achieving business women?What holds back most high-achieving business women?How to best overcome and remove these barriers?What happens when women make big bold changes in their lives?Plus more. If you’re a high-achieving woman in business who wants to make big, badass change, this is for you. Connect with Meg Instagram:   / meg_trucano   Website: https://www.megtrucano.com/ Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube.  

Join us as we chat with Creative Strategist, Designer, and Marketer Greg Roland for Episode 10 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. As part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re back this week with Greg, who is on a journey to create his first full-length album, making things no one has ever seen or heard before. With emotional intelligence, empathy, and God at the centre, we know this episode will bring peace and meaning to many of you. In this episode, we explore: ✨How Greg’s set of experiences, both good and bad, has combined to make him who he is today ✨How artistic creativity and creativity of thought shape you ✨Greg’s relationship with God and how it leads him ✨How emotional intelligence and empathy are the special sauce ✨Plus more. If you’re a creative, musician, or leader who is looking for more joy, hope, and empowerment, this episode is for you. Connect with GregInstagram:   / gregrolandmusic  Website: linkedin.com/in/gregoryaroland Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube.

S2 EP9 - Real Talk With Emma G & Ra, "Break Free Of Overthinking & Anxiety" ft. Anxiety Coach Kieran Hedley. If you want to stop Googling “how to stop overthinking,” join us as we chat to Anxiety Coach Kieran Hedley for Episode 9 of Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This. As part of Men’s Mental Health Awareness month, we’re back this week with another Kiwi (aren’t we cool!?), who leads the way when it comes to normalising conversations about men’s mental health and anxiety. Keiran has over 240+ success stories across 10+ countries of supporting people to navigate everything stress-related, from panic attacks and OCD to social anxiety, trauma, addiction, and feeling completely lost in life. In this episode, we explore:✨Keiran's personal background with Anxiety to now supporting others to live a life free from overthinking ✨What actually sticks when it comes to anxiety and overthinking? ✨How Keiran navigates a full life with running, travel, business, and study ✨How do we break the stigma of speaking up? ✨Plus more. If you are someone who spends your nights overthinking and trying to get to sleep, this episode is for you. Connect with Keiran Instagram:   / neurokez   Website: https://www.healingwithkez.com/ Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judsonStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #KeiranHeadley #StopOverthinking #MentalHealthAwareness #Anxiety #LeadershipWellbeing #Wellness #Wellbeing #MentalWellbeing

This week on Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This, International Speaker, Founder & MD of Braver Leaders, Sam Harvey, joins us. Sam has over 20 years of experience leading teams of up to 150 in corporate, SME, and Startup businesses across the globe, starting in New York City, then moving to the Caribbean, London, and now Dubai. A former competitive 100m sprinter, Sam openly shares about how he got fired for doing drugs and how it’s now shaped who he is and how he leads. In this episode, we explore: ✨Sam’s background of getting fired to now being the Founder of Braver Leaders. ✨Why vulnerability and how does it shape a culture? ✨What is psychological safety, and how does it build trust? ✨What happens when people feel safe to speak up? ✨The power of joy and playfulness. If you are an ambitious leader, founder, or CEO who desires to lead with more authenticity and feel less pressure to perform, this episode is for you. Want to know how to get the most out of your team productivity?Click here to take our free quiz: https://sam-eood0wp2.scoreapp.com/ Connect with SamLinkedIn: Braver Leaders https://www.linkedin.com/company/braverleaders Instagram: Braver Leadershttps://www.instagram.com/rawinia__judson Website: https://www.braverleaders.com/ Hosted by @emmagmusic (on IG) & @rawinia__judson (on IG)Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #SamHarvey #BraverLeaders #MentalHealthAwareness #Leadership #LeadershipWellbeing #LeadingPowerfully #Wellbeing #MentalWellbeing

This week on Real Talk: Mental Health Sounds Like This, we’re joined by Leadership Expert & CEO of The Legacy Leadership Consulting Group, Robert Heath Snr. Robert blends his background as an Officer and Company Commander in the United States Marine Corps with 20 years of experience leading, teaching, and coaching across multiple disciplines to support leaders in getting more from their whole lives. Robert works with leaders who desire to increase productivity, reduce stress and inefficiency, and get the very best out of their team on every project, regardless of who they may lead. In this episode, we explore: ✨ Robert’s background in the military to now being the CEO of TLLC✨ What is the mindset and the skillset required of a great leader ✨ Why your direction and your 'Why' is more important than the 'How'✨ The pursuit of excellence over perfection✨ Plus more  If you are an ambitious leader, entrepreneur, or executive who desires to live a more fulfilling life and leave with a renewed sense of who you are, this one is for you.  Loved what you heard from Robert Heath on today’s episode?  Take your leadership to the next level with two free tools designed to help you lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose. 👉 Click here to access your free resources  You’ll get: The Defining Success Self-Reflection Tool – a workbook to help you clarify your values, align with your purpose, and lead with intention. The Courageous Communication Primer – a practical guide for navigating tough conversations and building trust. Start building your legacy today.   Connect with Robert LinkedIn: Robert Heath Facebook: Robert’s Page Website: http://www.tllcg.com/

In this powerful episode of REAL TALK, Emma G and Rawinia Judson sit down with bestselling author and survivor Leslie Morgan Steiner to explore how storytelling, honesty, and resilience can transform trauma into strength. From domestic violence to corporate success, Leslie shares what it really means to reclaim your voice and live your truth.

In this soul-shaking episode of REAL TALK, Emma G and Rawinia Judson dive deep into the stories, identities, and emotional patterns that shape us — and the choices we can make to reclaim our wholeness. From ancestral identity to toxic relationships, burnout cycles, spiritual grounding, and the addiction to performance, this episode is a powerful reminder that vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s transformation in motion. 🎤 Topics we explore in this episode: What a pepeha teaches us about identity and belonging The dopamine addiction of creatives, high performers, and over-givers How anger, stress, and grief can be transformed through reframing Why asking "Where are you from?" is about connection, not division Letting go of external validation — and choosing health over chaos How our emotions are energy in motion, and how to respond, not react Rediscovering who you are beyond the roles you perform — especially after loss or transition Lessons from HEFAT stress management training with war-zone journalists Why slowing down is one of the bravest things a leader can do How we can stop "yucking each other’s yums" and grow in community The beauty of seeing your life as an album — not just one identity or title 🎧 This episode is raw, funny, and deeply reflective. Whether you're a coach, a parent, an artist, a recovering people-pleaser, or someone navigating major life changes — this conversation is for you. 💡 Remember: Shame dies when stories are told. So tell yours. 📍 Filmed between Washington DC & Vancouver🎙️ Hosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judson🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music & ROKU TV #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #ShameDiesWhenStoriesAreTold #PodcastForHealing #LeadershipAndMentalHealth #CreativeHealing #DMVCreatives #BethesdaWellness #VancouverCoaches #EmotionalResilience #TeWhareTapaWha #EmpowermentThroughVoice #StopShouldingOnYourself  

🎙️ The Naked Truth About Mental Health with Lauren Roche | REAL TALK: Mental Health Sounds Like This #TRIGGERWARNING: Brief discussion around suicide and depression In this empowering episode of REAL TALK: Mental Health Sounds Like This, we sit down with Lauren Roche — founder of The Naked Truth with Lauren, goals coach, UX product designer at Deloitte, and mental health advocate — for a conversation that’s equal parts raw, real, and deeply relatable. Lauren is on a mission to transform the way young professionals think and talk about mental health. With vulnerability as her superpower, she’s built an omnichannel platform that merges storytelling, community, mindfulness, and goal-setting — creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported. We dive into:✨ The origin story of The Naked Truth podcast and brand🧠 Mental health in the high-functioning, high-pressure professional world📱 How to create authentic digital spaces for real human connection🌱 Lauren’s personal tools for staying grounded and inspired🎯 The connection between vision, action, and emotional resilience Whether you’re navigating your 20s, building a brand, or balancing healing with ambition — this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen to Lauren’s podcast:The Naked Truth with Lauren on Spotify 📲 Connect with Lauren:Instagram: @thenakedtruth.podLinkedIn: Lauren RocheFacebook: Lauren’s Page 🎙️ REAL TALK: Mental Health Sounds Like ThisHosted by @emmagmusic & @rawinia__judson www.emmagmusic.com and www.rawiniajudson.comStreaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Roku TV & YouTube. #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #LaurenRoche #MentalHealthAwareness #TheNakedTruthWithLauren #YoungProfessionals #WellnessCommunity #PodcastInterview #VulnerabilityIsStrength

🎙️ From the Wrestling Ring to the Director’s Chair: A Conversation with Fredrick Pokai | REAL TALK: Mental Health Sounds Like This What does it take to go from being a professional wrestler to an award-winning filmmaker? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Fredrick Pokai, a filmmaker, actor, and writer who knows a thing or two about turning pain into purpose. Fredrick’s journey isn’t your typical Hollywood story. Growing up without fancy equipment or formal training, he carved his own path through sheer grit, resilience, and relentless passion. Now, he’s making waves in the New Zealand film industry with projects like DIVE, Project EVE, and the deeply personal Search For Hawaiki — a short film 14 years in the making. Join us as we discuss:✅ The power of perseverance in creative work✅ How wrestling shaped his storytelling style✅ How to harness physical, emotional, and spiritual strength✅ The epic journey of bringing Search For Hawaiki to life✅ Why embracing your “left field” status can be a creative superpower Fredrick’s story is a testament to the power of believing in yourself and your vision — no matter how long it takes. Watch the full episode now: https://youtube.com/live/izvyGmPYG4o 📌 Connect with Fredrick Pokai: Website: https://linktr.ee/fredrickpokai Instagram: @fredrickpokai LinkedIn: Fredrick Pokai Hosted by: Emma G – @emmagmusic Rawinia Judson – @rawinia__judson #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #FredrickPokai #CreativeResilience #Filmmaking #SearchForHawaiki #DIVE #ProjectEVE #WrestlingToFilm #PodcastSeries  

In this inspiring episode of REAL TALK: Mental Health Sounds Like This, hosts Emma G and Rawinia Judson sit down with Andrew Buerger, a mountaineer, entrepreneur, and advocate, to explore the transformative power of turning personal adversity into purposeful action. Andrew shares his journey from personal loss to founding Jodi’s Climb for Hope, leading over 400 climbers to raise more than $1 million for cancer and MS research. He discusses his experiences in building B’More Organic, a no-added-sugar protein drink company, and his current role as Chief Strategy Officer at Taharka Brothers Ice Cream, a Black-owned, Baltimore-based company that combines business with social impact. Throughout the conversation, Andrew delves into: The importance of resilience and finding silver linings in challenges How climbing mountains parallels overcoming life's obstacles The role of mission-driven entrepreneurship in personal fulfillment Strategies for maintaining mental health while pursuing ambitious goals Whether you're navigating personal challenges, leading a team, or seeking inspiration to pursue your passions, Andrew's story offers valuable insights into embracing discomfort, pushing past fear, and summiting your own biggest challenges. 🎧 Listen Now: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yF9nSlJYeeDcC8lUSPVD2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/realtalk-with-emma-g-and-ra/id1810587016 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/7531ab2a-02a6-4f79-9426-af11b031a552/realtalk-with-emma-g-and-ra YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWek3RNXa8E 🔗 Connect with Andrew Buerger: Website: www.AndrewBuerger.com Instagram: @buergerandrew LinkedIn: Andrew Buerger 📌 Stay Connected: Emma G: @emmagmusic or https://emmagmusic.com Rawinia Judson: @rawinia__judson or https://rawiniajudson.com/ #RealTalkPodcast #MentalHealthSoundsLikeThis #AndrewBuerger #Resilience #PurposeDrivenLife #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealthAwareness #EmmaGmusic #RealTalkwithEmmaGandRA

Honest convos about mental health, healing & high performance with Emma G & Rawinia Judson. 🎙️ This is what mental health sounds like.

In a world of social distancing / quarantine / isolation; Goddess rock artivist musician Emma G brings REAL TALK : empowering conversations with leaders in their field to talk about their industries, the impact of Coronavirus on their lives, and how they're choosing to lead with love, positivity and strength in the face of a changing world: politically, economically, artistically and emotionally.

In a world of social distancing / quarantine / isolation; Goddess rock artivist musician Emma G brings REAL TALK : empowering conversations with leaders in their field to talk about their industries, the impact of Coronavirus on their lives, and how they're choosing to lead with love, positivity and strength in the face of a changing world: politically, economically, artistically and emotionally.

In a world of social distancing / quarantine / isolation; Goddess rock artivist musician Emma G brings REAL TALK : empowering conversations with leaders in their field to talk about their industries, the impact of Coronavirus on their lives, and how they're choosing to lead with love, positivity and strength in the face of a changing world: politically, economically, artistically and emotionally.