PiZetta Media: Podcast with a Cause

Dr. Anna Sitkoff shares her journey into the field of mental health, from her early experiences studying nutrition to navigating personal challenges, such as supporting family members through addiction and grief. Dr. Sitkoff's passion for holistic care runs deep, offering a unique perspective shaped by her experiences as a naturopathic doctor and a new mom. She explores how life transitions like postpartum anxiety and chronic illness shape her practice and deepen her understanding of whole-body wellness. In this interview, Dr. Sitkoff discusses her integrative approach to mental health, focusing on establishing foundations for optimal health through lifestyle, nutrition, and environment. She details her use of medicinal mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane, explaining how they support stress regulation, neuroplasticity, and overall mental health. Dr. Sitkoff emphasizes a personalized, whole-body approach to care, highlighting the importance of support systems, diverse treatment options, and being open to different paths to healing. Learn more about Dr. Sitkoff’s work and her dedication to natural, comprehensive mental health care.

Lauren Anderson, Executive Director of Our Minds Matter, shares her deeply personal journey of founding the organization following the tragic loss of her brother Josh to suicide. Lauren discusses how this pivotal event inspired her mission to empower teens with the knowledge, tools, and skills to advocate for mental health in their communities. From starting small with memorial runs to now leading a growing team, Lauren explains how Our Minds Matter equips students to build mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and create supportive school environments. Lauren also opens up about her personal healing journey, blending therapy, yoga, and the mind-body connection to navigate her mental health challenges. She reflects on the lessons learned from working with passionate teen leaders and highlights the importance of family and community support in tackling mental health challenges. Discover how Our Minds Matter is making a profound impact across schools in the DC metro area and beyond, and learn how you can support or connect with their vital work. Visit ourmindsmatter.org to learn more!

Robyn Mehlenbeck, Director of the George Mason Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH) and clinical psychologist, discusses the incredible progress CCMH has made over the past year. With a dual mission of training the next generation of behavioral health providers and delivering accessible, affordable mental health services, CCMH is making a profound impact. From a 27% increase in their Spanish emotional support line usage to providing over 2,500 therapy sessions on a sliding scale, this center is truly transforming lives while addressing community needs. Learn more about their innovative programs, including free parent webinars, veteran-focused services, and the importance of addressing social media's effects on mental health. Discover how CCMH fosters community support and empowers future mental health professionals through evidence-based training. Robyn shares the "butterfly effect" of their mission and offers heartfelt advice for anyone navigating tough times: don’t isolate, seek support, and remember that help is always available. Whether you're a mental health advocate, a parent, or someone in need of resources, this inspiring conversation is a must-watch. For more information, visit CCMH’s website at ccmh.gmu.edu and explore their annual report and free resources.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

In this candid conversation with Lauren Morris, host of The Mostly Mental Mom podcast, we dive into her deeply personal journey with bipolar II disorder. Diagnosed in 2014, Lauren shares the challenges and revelations she's faced over the last 10 years as she navigates the complexities of living with a mental illness. From learning to manage day-to-day stressors to overcoming societal expectations, she unpacks the "silent battle" many face but few openly discuss. Lauren’s decision to launch her podcast stemmed from a desire to connect authentically with others, embracing the raw, unfiltered messiness of life with bipolar disorder. Through music, conversations, and vulnerable storytelling, Lauren has found a way to break through the isolating barriers of mental illness, inspiring others to know they aren’t alone. Her insights on redefining success, facing fears of vulnerability, and balancing family dynamics while managing mental health resonate deeply. Whether you're on your own mental health journey or looking to understand others better, this discussion offers a compassionate reminder that sharing our stories has the power to heal, connect, and empower. Tune in and be inspired by Lauren’s resilience and her commitment to paving new paths for those living with bipolar disorder.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Isabelle Gullo, Executive Director and Co-Founder of C.A.R.E.4Paws. Isabelle shares the heartfelt journey behind creating this incredible nonprofit, founded in 2009 to strengthen the bond between pets and their families. From her beginnings as a shelter volunteer to spearheading initiatives like mobile clinics and free spay/neuter programs, Isabelle reveals how C.A.R.E.4Paws tackles the root causes of pet abandonment and ensures access to care for underserved communities. In this episode, we explore how pets provide companionship, responsibility, and love, especially for seniors, disabled individuals, and those experiencing homelessness. Learn how Isabelle’s team collaborates with family welfare organizations to create holistic solutions that keep pets and families united. Whether you're an animal lover or passionate about community support, this conversation highlights the profound impact of honoring the human-animal connection. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🐾❤️

Grace Quantock is a psychotherapeutic counsellor and author of Live and Well with Chronic Illness. Her journey into the mental health field was catalyzed by a deeply challenging experience with a psychiatrist after being diagnosed with PTSD following a car accident. Living with chronic health conditions and facing insensitive medical treatment, Grace became determined to create a more compassionate approach to supporting individuals with complex needs. Drawing from her own lived experiences, Grace has dedicated her career to offering transformative care through her therapeutic practice and innovative techniques. Her work is grounded in understanding the broader societal context and systemic issues that impact mental health, a perspective that shapes her unique "somatic complexity compassion therapy" approach. In addition to her therapeutic practice, Grace is the author of Living Well with Chronic Illness, which empowers readers to create personalized wellness roadmaps. Unlike traditional self-help books, her work emphasizes self-discovery and practical tools to find a unique path to wellness, devoid of unrealistic societal expectations. Grace integrates creative, therapeutic journaling as part of her work, providing clients with an accessible outlet for expression and self-reflection. Her passion for empowering others extends through workshops, writing, and community involvement, all aimed at transforming the conversation around chronic illness and mental health into one of compassion, resilience, and possibility.

In this insightful interview, Michael VanZetta sits down with Craig Cecilio, the visionary CEO and founder of DiversyFund. Craig shares how his working-class upbringing inspired him to revolutionize investing, making it accessible to everyone. From his 20+ years in the investment world to creating a platform that democratizes access to private markets, Craig discusses the journey and challenges of going against industry norms. He opens up about the mental health practices that keep him balanced, the importance of embracing discomfort, and how these habits have shaped his personal and professional growth. Craig also delves into his passion for personal development and fitness, sharing incredible anecdotes, like his early experiences learning meditation with Deepak Chopra and training alongside elite athletes in CrossFit. Whether you're interested in investing, mental health, or simply seeking motivation to overcome life's challenges, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips for success. Don't miss Craig’s wisdom on navigating life's uncertainties and finding opportunities for growth.

In this interview, Sabrina Trobak, a registered clinical counselor from British Columbia, Canada, shares her inspiring journey from teaching to counseling, driven by a desire to address the deeper issues surrounding mental health. Her transition was sparked by a powerful workshop on suicide and core beliefs, leading her to adopt a therapeutic model focused on uncovering and reshaping core beliefs such as self-worth and value. Sabrina explains how understanding and challenging these deep-seated beliefs can have a profound impact on alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles. By working with parents, she emphasizes the critical role they play in shaping their children’s core beliefs, advocating for generational change and a deeper awareness of self-worth within families. Sabrina discusses the rewarding aspects of her counseling practice, including seeing clients experience life-changing "light bulb moments." With a holistic approach to self-care that includes exercise, journaling, and maintaining balance, she models the practices she teaches. Sabrina is also a published author and public speaker, using her platform to make mental health resources accessible to more people. She encourages individuals to embrace and process their emotions to foster true healing. Her passion for spreading awareness, along with her book and social media outreach, underscores her commitment to reshaping how we understand and support mental health.

Jon Nelson is a passionate mental health advocate and lived-experience expert dedicated to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness. Having faced the challenges of serious mental illness and depressive disorder for much of his life, Jon’s personal journey fuels his tireless mission to foster open dialogue, understanding, and compassion. After a 20-year career in biopharmaceutical communications, he pivoted to focus on mental health advocacy, bringing invaluable expertise and personal insight to his work. His life took a transformative turn in 2022 when he underwent a clinical trial for deep brain stimulation, a groundbreaking procedure that led him to remission and reignited his determination to fight for others navigating similar struggles. Jon collaborates closely with the biopharmaceutical industry and serves as a strategic advisor to leading nonprofits like One Mind and the Mental Health Collaborative. His advocacy extends to national platforms, including the NIH congressional briefing on the BRAIN Initiative, where he amplifies the voices of mental health patients. Through appearances on podcasts such as Out of Patients and Stimulating Brains, as well as features in media outlets like NPR, PBS, and The Philadelphia Inquirer, Jon shares his inspiring story and advocates for systemic change. Committed to keeping patients at the heart of every initiative, he continues to work toward dismantling misconceptions about mental illness, saving lives, and building a more empathetic world.

Dr. Donna Volpitta, co-founder of the Mental Health Literacy Collaborative, shares her inspiring journey to address a crucial gap in education: mental health literacy. From groundbreaking legislation to grassroots implementation, Dr. Volpitta discusses the barriers to mental health education and how her organization empowers communities, educators, and parents to confidently teach essential mental health concepts. Learn about the four pillars of mental health literacy—maintaining positive mental health, understanding common disorders and treatments, seeking help effectively, and reducing stigma—and why these are vital for schools and communities nationwide. Michael VanZetta, host of PiZetta Media, joins Dr. Volpitta in an engaging discussion about the importance of empathy, the challenges educators face, and the transformative power of collaboration across states. Hear about the impactful initiatives, including the new interstate work group and Mental Health Literacy Aware program, that are making waves in over 38 states. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or advocate, this interview provides valuable insights into creating a future where mental health literacy is foundational in education and beyond. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more meaningful conversations about mental health advocacy!

In this heartfelt interview, Nicole Angelique Kerr, an eternality advocate, public speaker, and neuroemotional technique practitioner, shares her transformative journey following a near-death experience at age 19. The traumatic car crash at the Air Force Academy led her to reevaluate and deconstruct long-held beliefs, ultimately fostering a lifelong commitment to holistic wellness. Nicole emphasizes the importance of addressing all domains of health—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. She details her experiences navigating trauma, embracing emotional healing, and finding spiritual purpose, inspiring others to prioritize self-love and dismantle limiting beliefs. Nicole offers a powerful perspective on spirituality, urging individuals to reconnect with their higher purpose and live free from judgment and fear. She discusses the value of giving back, the profound impact of supportive relationships, and the essential work of dismantling internalized shame and trauma. Her dedication to helping others includes raising awareness for veteran mental health and using her story to encourage transformation and hope. Nicole's book, "You Are Deathless," serves as a guide for those seeking healing and a deeper understanding of life beyond physical existence. Connect with her for insights and inspiration on navigating life's challenges and embracing your spiritual journey.

Alyssa Nash, an artist and mental health advocate, opens up about her lifelong mental health journey marked by anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. Alyssa shares how confronting these challenges and undergoing trauma therapy helped her gain clarity and healing. She describes her mental health journey as a complex but transformative process, particularly given her family's history with a gene linked to frontotemporal dementia. Alyssa discusses her creative expression as a lifeline through dark periods and highlights the profound sense of relief and recognition she felt when finally receiving an accurate diagnosis, underscoring the power of self-awareness and proper mental health care. Art, particularly text-based creations and oil painting, serves as a therapeutic outlet and a means of self-expression for Alyssa. She candidly discusses her process of creating and sharing her art, emphasizing its transformative role in processing emotions and connecting with others who feel isolated in their struggles. For Alyssa, every word and brushstroke is a step toward healing and a way to help others feel less alone. Her story underscores the importance of shared experiences, the healing power of creativity, and the courage it takes to bring inner battles into the light.

In this inspiring interview, Dr. Louise Metcalf, creator and co-founder of Gheorg, shares her mission to revolutionize mental health support for children. With over 30 years of experience as a psychologist, Dr. Metcalf discusses how rising rates of childhood anxiety sparked the creation of Gheorg, a virtual robot designed to help kids aged 7-12 navigate their mental health. Combining science-backed techniques with accessible technology, Gheorg empowers children to understand and express their emotions while strengthening family dynamics. Dr. Metcalf explains how the app works, its impact on families, and the critical role technology plays in addressing the global mental health crisis. Join us as Dr. Metcalf reveals the vision behind Gheorg, her passion for blending psychology and innovation, and her dream of making mental health support accessible to children worldwide. Learn about the app's unique features, how it fosters confidence and emotional growth in kids, and the steps being taken to ensure Gheorg reaches families in underserved communities. Whether you're a parent, mental health advocate, or simply curious about the future of digital mental health tools, this conversation is packed with insights and hope for a mentally well generation. Visit www.gheorg.com to learn more!

Camila Rodriguez, MSW is a Pre-Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, VA

In this interview, Taylor Jones, Executive Director of Bikes for the World, shares the mission and global impact of this Rockville, Maryland-based nonprofit. Bikes for the World collects donated bikes from the Washington DC area and distributes them to grassroots NGO partner programs in developing countries, positively transforming lives by providing reliable transportation. With over 20 years of operation, the organization has supported programs in 31 countries, ranging from healthcare access and vocational training to micro-lending and small business support. Through a robust volunteer network, the organization prepares and ships these bikes, demonstrating how a single bicycle can offer independence, increase accessibility, and expand opportunities for education and employment. Taylor explains how his personal passion for cycling and experiences abroad have fueled his commitment to the organization. From empowering volunteers—especially young people—to gain confidence and hands-on skills, to seeing how bikes enhance mobility and autonomy for individuals worldwide, the work of Bikes for the World resonates deeply. The organization is focused not just on distributing bikes but also on building lasting partnerships and adapting to community needs, even exploring new technologies like e-bikes. For Taylor, every bike represents the potential to reshape lives, broaden horizons, and drive meaningful change. Visit BikesForTheWorld.org to learn more, volunteer, or donate to this impactful cause.

Kody Green, a mental health advocate known as the "Schizophrenic Hippie," shares his inspiring journey from facing the challenges of schizophrenia, addiction, and incarceration to becoming a full-time advocate for mental health awareness. Growing up as a caregiver for his mother with schizoaffective disorder, Kody witnessed the stigma surrounding mental illness early on. After his own diagnosis, he turned his struggles into a mission to educate others, promote understanding, and support those navigating similar journeys. Kody highlights the importance of building a supportive community, using humor in advocacy, and prioritizing self-care while helping others. Kody also discusses his upcoming book, Minds Over Meetings, which explores mental health and mental illness in the workplace, offering practical insights for individuals, HR professionals, and leaders. From partnering with organizations like Johnson & Johnson to engaging in political advocacy for mental health reform, Kody is dedicated to driving systemic change. Discover how his content, speaking engagements, and advocacy efforts are breaking down stigma and fostering hope. Connect with Kody on social media @SchizophrenicHippie or visit codygreen.com to learn more!

Jonathan Marx is the Host and Founder of GoToHealth Media

Dr. Elizabeth Markle, co-founder and executive director of Open Source Wellness, joins us to share her journey in the mental health field and how it led to the creation of her groundbreaking nonprofit organization. From an early passion for becoming a therapist to working within healthcare systems that often fell short of patients' needs, Dr. Markle recognized the need for something different. Open Source Wellness was born out of a desire to create a supportive, culturally affirmative, and community-driven model where individuals could experience "community as medicine." By focusing on movement, nutrition, social connection, and stress reduction, Open Source Wellness brings participants together to create real, lasting changes in their health and well-being. In this inspiring interview, Dr. Markle delves into the philosophy behind community-driven health coaching, the transformative power of group support, and the importance of creating joyful and culturally informed spaces for healing. As she describes, healthcare must evolve beyond traditional "good luck" prescriptions and embrace models that empower individuals through connection and support. With her team's dedication and the power of collective healing, Open Source Wellness offers an inclusive path forward for physical, mental, and social wellness. Learn more about their innovative approach and how you can get involved or benefit from this movement to reshape healthcare.