A Mental Health Break

🩺 In this powerful episode of A Mental Health Break, we sit down with Claudia Holley, a fierce patient advocate, social media trailblazer, and medical admin professional who’s on a mission to transform the patient experience. Broadcasting from The Arthritis Center in Bridgeton, Missouri, Claudia opens up about how the tragic loss of her brother became the turning point in her life—igniting a deep passion for helping those suffering from invisible illnesses. 🧠 From battling the stigma around mental health to navigating the complexities of insurance denial, Claudia shares how her personal grief evolved into a full-time mission of service and change. She talks about her experience organizing a groundbreaking AI-driven appeals clinic, her journey through therapy, and why even a simple walk or playing a vinyl record can be a game changer for your mental health. 💡 Highlights include: Whether you’re someone who’s navigating chronic illness, fighting for healthcare access, or simply trying to stay mentally healthy, Claudia’s raw honesty and dedication will leave you feeling seen, heard, and empowered. 📲 Stick around until the end to learn how to connect with Claudia and explore her educational healthcare content across platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, and more. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

“Just know that you have the capacity, the will, and the power to get through it. Don’t lose hope. Don’t lose faith.” — Andres Cintron In this powerful episode of A Mental Health Break, host Vincent A. Lanci sits down with career counselor and community leader Andres Cintron—a passionate mental health advocate helping students navigate their own ups and downs in the higher education space. From his early experiences growing up in Puerto Rico and adjusting to life in Connecticut after his parents’ divorce, to managing family challenges with depression, Andres shares how his upbringing shaped his understanding of mental health. He opens up about the importance of self-reflection, identifying internal and external stressors, and empowering others through education and empathy. 💬 Topics covered: Being Yourself PodcastWhether you’re a student facing academic stress or someone searching for tools to improve your mindset, this episode will leave you inspired, grounded, and equipped with real strategies to carry forward. 🌱 “Acknowledge your experience. Find what’s in your control. Then take action.” — Andres 🎧 Tune in now and don’t forget to check out Andres’ Being Yourself Podcast—a cozy coffee shop-style show highlighting identity, authenticity, and growth. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

What happens when life changes in an instant? When a truck runs a red light, and everything—from your language skills to your sense of self—must be relearned? This week on A Mental Health Break, we sit down with Adrienne Falcone Godsell, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) warrior and the founder of The Food Whisperer LLC, to explore her powerful story of resilience, self-discovery, and healing. Adrienne shares her journey of recovery after surviving a traumatic brain injury—from relearning how to speak and socialize, to accepting a new version of herself. She offers heartfelt advice for others navigating life post-TBI: "We have to accept our new 'us'—because we’re never going to be the same ever again." But Adrienne’s story doesn’t stop at survival. Her passion for holistic health began at 16 with a hypoglycemia diagnosis and evolved into a lifelong mission of helping others through mindful eating. She shares how her food journey intertwined with her mental and emotional recovery, and how she now uses her skills to support healing from the inside out. In this episode, we discuss: 🧠 What it’s like to rebuild your life after a traumatic brain injury 💬 Relearning language and social skills post-TBI 🪞 The importance of knowing and accepting your “new self” 🥗 Adrienne’s journey into holistic food for health 💡 How nutrition supports mental and emotional well-being This is an eye-opening, soul-nourishing conversation about trauma, healing, and transforming adversity into purpose. 🔊 Tune in now and be inspired by Adrienne’s courage, wisdom, and unwavering spirit. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Are you struggling with burnout? Or perhaps you're seeking to enhance your coaching skills and deepen your understanding of yourself and your team. Join us for a powerful episode as we welcome Dr. Irma Campos, a distinguished Licensed Psychologist who owns two practices and a Leadership & Business Management Consultant. Dr. Campos brings a unique and invaluable perspective, bridging the gap between psychology and the workplace. In this episode, we delve into: Working through grief Her goal of providing equitable healthcareServing neurodivergent communities - ADHD, autism spectrum, learning disordersHow to open your own office and also how to offer testing Tips for finding the right therapist for you, and much more.With her extensive experience in executive functioning training, behavioral psychology, neuropsychological functioning, and culturally diverse leadership, she offers actionable insights for leaders at all levels. She obtained a Master’s and Bachelor’s magna cum laude and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Florida, developing experience integrating psychological research into practice with a social justice lens. Dr. Campos has native language competencies in English and Spanish, and she proudly identifies as Panamanian American. Dr. Campos often serves as an expert guest in Spanish-language and English-language media and within organizations. Click play to improve your day with your Mental Health Break Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Join us for an incredibly powerful and raw conversation with Jess Ferretti, a force of nature who seamlessly blends her analytical prowess with a deeply compassionate heart. This a mother of two and survivor brings a unique perspective shaped by her journey from professional theater to driving positive change in the corporate world, particularly within the mental health sector. Jess is certified in behavioral economics, trauma-informed leadership, and LGBTQIA+ leadership. But beyond her impressive credentials, she's a beacon of resilience. In this episode, she bravely shares her lifelong battle with mental health, including her experiences with CPTSD, Agoraphobia, and ADHD. As a clean and sober individual, Jess demystifies the often-misunderstood world of EMDR therapy and illuminates the critical distinctions between CPTSD and PTSD, shedding light on the complexities of trauma and recovery. She opens up about her abusive childhood, her path to healing, and how she leverages her personal experiences to lead with empathy and strategic insight. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and empowered as Jess reveals her journey with honesty and strength, proving that even in the face of adversity, we can not only survive, but thrive. Get ready for a deeply impactful conversation that will leave you inspired. Please join me in welcoming the remarkable Jess Ferretti. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

In this powerful episode of A Mental Health Break, we welcome a remarkable guest, Joe Mittiga, who shares his incredible journey from near homelessness to building a multi-million dollar business. After a life-changing spiritual experience that "struck him sober" 30 years ago, he began a path of deep emotional healing and personal growth. Our guest is the author of two transformative books: 📖 Healing Addiction – A guide to finding freedom from shame through 12-step inner child work. 📖 Awaken Greatness – Discovering your true potential through conscious connection. In this episode, we explore: ✨ The difference between shame and guilt—and how to heal both ✨ Why forgiveness and surrender aren't action steps but transformative outcomes ✨ The power of inner child work and why it's key to healing ✨ How 12-step programs can guide emotional recovery ✨ What holds most people back from living a fully functional life "If I can heal, anyone can heal." This conversation is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of self-discovery. 🔊 Tune in now for an honest and inspiring conversation about addiction, forgiveness, and healing. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Feeling stuck in your career or life? You're not alone. This week on A Mental Health Break, we welcome award-winning coach and bestselling author Helen Hanison to guide us through the process of purposeful career redesign. Helen’s new book, Unstuck, quickly became an Amazon bestseller, offering a roadmap to overcoming obstacles and creating a fulfilling, values-aligned career. Featured in Forbes, Thrive Global, and The London Economic, she specializes in helping mid-career and C-suite professionals realign their work with their true purpose. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ How to purposefully redesign your career and break free from stagnation ✨ The hidden power of perseverance and why it’s rarely talked about ✨ Using nostalgia and personal narratives to shape your next chapter If you're ready to make a meaningful shift, this episode is for you. Tune in for expert insights and practical steps toward a career and life you love. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Has Medicine Lost Its Mind? A Conversation with Dr. Robert C. Smith 🏥🧠 In this episode of A Mental Health Break, we sit down with Dr. Robert C. Smith, a nationally recognized leader in evidence-based mental health care and patient-centered medicine. As a University Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Psychiatry at Michigan State University, Dr. Smith has transformed the way doctors communicate with patients, pioneering a method that strengthens doctor-patient partnerships. With over 150 published papers and numerous awards, including Master recognition from the American College of Physicians, Dr. Smith is on a mission to reform mental health care. He sheds light on: 🔍 Why mental health issues go misdiagnosed or untreated—and the cost to society 🩺 How medical professionals can integrate mental health into standard care 💡 The hidden consequences of separating mental and physical health 🧘 Why mindfulness and exercise should be part of medical treatment ⚡ Practical steps to fix our broken approach to mental health care Mental health affects 1 in 4 Americans each year—yet nearly 75% go untreated. Dr. Smith isn't just diagnosing the problem—he’s offering real solutions. 🎧 Tune in now—available on all major podcast platforms! Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

My life has been quite an adventure—spending 8 years in Namibia doing human rights work during the UN-led Resolution 435 peace process; being detained by guerrillas in the south of Angola during a river trip on the Kavango River; working with and representing San living in the Kalahari Desert. These experiences, and others, have deeply shaped my approach to life. I’m John Ford, originally from South Africa where I studied law at the University of Cape Town. I began my career practicing law in Namibia before moving to the USA, where I transitioned into conflict resolution and workplace mediation, building a successful practice over the past 30 years. In my work, I’ve discovered that effective conflict resolution hinges on two key conversations: addressing feelings to acknowledge and heal past pain and identifying needs to foster a collaborative future. This insight has inspired the suite of tools I’ve developed, including The Empathy Set of feelings and needs flashcards, a comprehensive dictionary, a versatile app, and talking sticks—all designed to simplify and enhance interpersonal communication. The Empathy Set🔔 Subscribe for more mental health conversations, tips, and insights Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Join us for a deeply moving and incredibly powerful conversation on this week's episode. We sit down with James Hatfield, who bravely shares his experience navigating the profound loss of close friends. He opens up about the waves of sadness that washed over him, the unique challenges of growing up alongside a friend with cystic fibrosis who tragically passed away at just 19, and the difficult journey of processing such a significant loss. This isn't just an episode about grief, though. James' story is a testament to the importance of talking about our feelings, even the difficult ones. He emphasizes the crucial need for open communication and the healing power of vulnerability. He shares how allowing himself to be vulnerable helped him process his grief and find strength in sharing his experience. This episode is a reminder that you're not alone in your struggles and that opening up can be the first step towards healing. Tune in for a raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful conversation about love, loss, and the power of human connection. This is a mental health break you won't want to miss. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Overwhelmed by anxiety? Join us on A Mental Health Break as we welcome back wellness leader Ashton August, author of 101 Mindfulness Practices to Ease Anxiety. Ashton shares a powerful practice from her new book, discusses her writing journey, and offers practical mindfulness techniques for breathwork, mindful movement, and nervous system regulation. Learn tangible tools to find calm amidst the chaos. In this episode, we discuss: 101 Mindfulness Practices to Ease AnxietyAbout Ashton August: Ashton August is an author, yoga/meditation instructor, and wellness leader. She's the force behind YouAligned.com and the YouAligned Classes app, and author of A Year of Self-Motivation for Women, Learn. Grow. Shift., and 101 Mindfulness Practices to Ease Anxiety. Follow her journey on our show with her first episode: Click here to enjoy the show.🔔 Subscribe for more mental health conversations, tips, and insights 💬 Comment below with your takeaways and experiences Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

David Steele joins us to share his powerful journey of overcoming adversity and achieving self-actualization. David opens up about the mental health challenges he faced growing up, including the anxieties stemming from financial struggles. He emphasizes the profound impact of feeling loved and valued, and how this foundation is crucial for mental well-being. He also discusses the importance of regularly conducting a "relationship audit", where you take stock of the connections in your life and ensure they are contributing positively to your mental and emotional health. David shares a pivotal moment in his late 20s, a "flashpoint" that dramatically shifted his perspective and set him on a path of intentional growth. He stresses the importance of setting authentic goals, those that resonate with your true self rather than being dictated by societal pressures. As we learned on That Entrepreneur Show, David is the founder and CEO of One Wealth Advisors. His commitment to helping clients simplify their lives and achieve their financial goals is deeply rooted in his own experiences of overcoming financial hardship. Beyond finance, he is a passionate creator with ventures spanning hospitality, the arts, and consumer products, reflecting his belief in living a full and multifaceted life. He also touches on: 🔔 Subscribe for more mental health tips and insights! 💬 Comment below with your takeaways and experiences! Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a guest or show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com. This show is brought to you by the Empathy Set and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Alex Abraham is a passionate advocate for healing from childhood sexual abuse. After years of struggling with the emotional and physical scars of trauma, he discovered the transformative power of psychedelic-assisted therapy. His journey, chronicled in his new book, "Trauma and Ecstasy: How Psychedelics Made My Life Worth Living," offers a deeply personal and insightful exploration of healing through non-traditional methods. Alex lives in Austin, Texas, where he continues to educate others about the potential of psychedelic therapies for trauma recovery. He founded Psychedelic Pathways to support individuals on their own healing journeys and also touches on today: He explores his book, Trauma and Ecstacy, on Writing with Authors here! Don't miss the recording after this show to learn more about our guest. Guest Insights: Support the show ************ Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. This show is brought to you by www.JohnFord.com and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Buckle up for an honest conversation about mental health 🧠🎙️ Panel #2 is here! We touch on a lot, including these areas with Renzo Del Castillo and Steven Twohig: Renzo Del Castillo, Author of Still, a natural collaborator, mentor, and visionary leader who excels at inspiring others to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Steven Twohig, Author of Turning Within, Facilitator, Guide | 25 years of experience in the trenches of profound transformation and implementation. This episode is perfect for you if: Don't miss this insightful conversation! Enjoy their Debuts: Renzo's First Episode, When Life Does the Unexpected, Keep Going with Renzo Del CastilloSteven's First Episode, Childhood Trauma -> Shadow Work & Psychedelic IntegrationSupport the show ************ Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. This show is brought to you by www.JohnFord.com and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

LEFT FOR DEAD: A car left Lanci on the side of the road after hitting him on foot. What was Vincent's motivating fuel when he woke up from a coma? Join us for this heartfelt show to learn this and more. He touches on: There were no 24 Hour ATMs. No Uber/Lyft/Venmo/ Zelle Availability. There were no Direct Flights for his family. His family had to call Tampa General Hospital to make sure he was still alive before boarding their connecting flight. Learn more about your host and walk away inspired when you hit play. Support the show ************ Have a question for the host or guest? Want their freebee? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. This show is brought to you by www.JohnFord.com and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

5 years in and we are not slowing down now! Bronwyn touches on: Welcome back to A Mental Health Break! Please rate and leave a review if you enjoy the show. Meet Our Guest: Hi! I am Bronwyn Schweigerdt, LMFT, licensed psychotherapist, anger expert, and Podcast Host of Angry at the Right Things. I specialize in anger as well as shame, the two most misunderstood feelings for both therapists and lay people alike. These feelings often cause us to dissociate – which leads to mental illness, such as anxiety and depression. My mission is to reorient our relationship with anger to view it as a light on our emotional dashboard – inviting us to look under the hood in order to bring repair. As we do, we learn how to trust ourselves, viewing our anger as something that gives us wisdom, so we can channel it out of our bodies into boundaries and assertive speech. Most of all, I love to lead others in “Integration Exercises”, in which they give back their feelings of shame to the rightful owner, and reconnect to themselves. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. This show is brought to you by www.JohnFord.com and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Five years of weekly mental health support – we're celebrating! Tune into today's show for an episode filled with support and encouragement. On this special episode of A Mental Health Break, we're joined by Dr. Carlos Garcia, Founder of Tampa Counseling and Wellness, for a discussion on building a healthier, happier you. Thank you for being a mental health champion and helping make this show a Top 10% Global Podcast. We appreciate you. Remember, you are never alone. Sometimes, we all just need A Mental Health Break in the day. Want to go back to Episode #1? We have got you covered. Check it out here! Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. This show is brought to you by www.JohnFord.com and Coming Alive Podcast Production. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988

Let's dive into the year that was together. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988 This show is brought to you by Coming Alive Podcast Production. Check out their course, book, and services today.

For the estimated 2.8 million people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) worldwide, the disease can be unpredictable, causing a significant burden not only on those living with it but also on their families and loved ones. Join us for an inspirational show with Julie Stamm, a mother, author, and advocate living with MS since 2007, and her husband, Adam. In this episode, you'll discover: The turning point she asked for helpAdvice for support systemsFocusing nowCommitment and Resilience Meet Our Guests Julie A. Stamm, diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2007, has dedicated her life to educating, advocating, and supporting those with chronic illnesses. Her global work with physicians, patients, and foundations has helped lessen the burdens of those affected. After the birth of her son in 2016, Julie focused on supporting children of parents with chronic illnesses, writing the children’s book Some Days: A Tale of Love, Ice Cream, and My Mom’s Chronic Illness to normalize diverse abilities. In 2023, she co-created 52 Essential Inclusion Skills with Dr. Jenny Woo, a guide promoting kindness, compassion, and respect for all abilities. Julie’s mission has reshaped conversations around chronic illness, highlighting resilience and advocating for the underrepresented. Adam Romsdahl is a dedicated advocate, father, and special education paraprofessional passionate about healthcare and community support. He met his wife, Julie Stamm, in 2013. From the beginning, Adam became a steadfast supporter in her journey, standing by her side in advocacy and raising awareness for multiple sclerosis. Together, they welcomed their son, Jack, in 2016, who has become a source of inspiration and joy for the family. Adam’s commitment to his family and his work as a disability advocate reflects his deep dedication to resilience, inclusivity, and creating a positive impact in his community. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988 This show is brought to you by Coming Alive Podcast Production. Check out their course, book, and services today.

Before the year ends, we have a few more incredible guests heading your way! This week, Doug White discusses: Experiences with PTSDPistol in his hand… Decision to makeSleep disturbanceFinding peace when you reach retirementKey Lessons from his story Meet Our Guest Doug White is a veteran and retired first responder with over 30 years of combined service. He wrote and published Hiding in Plain Sight: The Truth about Trauma, Service, and The Way Forward to fulfill a new mission: starting honest, necessary conversations about the challenges faced by veterans, first responders, and their families. These challenges emerge when a life of selfless service inevitably collides with the complex realities of the human condition. Through his book, Hiding in Plain Sight, and the Tell This Story platform, his mission is to create a space where voices are heard and hope is shared for those still hiding in plain sight. Each week on Tell This Story, he sits down with fellow veterans, first responders, and their loved ones to unpack these struggles through authentic storytelling and work together on finding a way forward. Support the show Have a question for the host or guest? Are you looking to become a show partner? Email Danica at PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com to get connected. CRISIS LINE: DIAL 988 This show is brought to you by Coming Alive Podcast Production. Check out their course, book, and services today.