Unlocking the Power of Fertile Imagination for Personal and Professional Growth - Melissa Llorena

In this heartfelt episode, Avik Chakraborty dives into a deep and transformative conversation with Victoria Volk, an advanced certified grief recovery specialist, energy healer, and author. Victoria shares her personal journey of navigating grief from a young age and how it shaped her life and career. She discusses the profound impact of energy healing in overcoming the emotional turmoil of loss and introduces listeners to practical tools for moving from surviving to thriving. About the Guest: Victoria Volk is a beacon of hope in the realm of grief recovery. She is a self-published author, advanced certified grief recovery specialist, and the creator and host of the podcast "Grieving Voices." With certifications in Reiki, Biofield Tuning, and UMAP coaching, Victoria combines traditional grief recovery methods with energy healing, offering a unique path to resilience. Key Takeaways: Grief is cumulative and can manifest in various physical and emotional ways if not addressed. Energy healing can play a crucial role in processing and releasing deep-seated grief. Practical strategies for supporting yourself or others through the grieving process.

28 Elo 202423min

In this episode of "Healthy Mind, Healthy Life," host Avik Chakraborty sits down with the resilient Sorcha Sylvester-Martin to explore her incredible journey of battling cystic fibrosis, overcoming addiction, and finding a new purpose in life. Born with a condition that doctors said would prevent her from living past 18, Sorcha defied the odds. After losing her grandmother, who was her rock and guiding force, Sorcha found herself spiraling into addiction as a way to cope with the overwhelming pain and uncertainty. However, her story is one of transformation, as she has now embraced a holistic lifestyle centered on movement, self-care, and raising awareness for those with chronic illnesses who also struggle with addiction. Sorcha’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human will to live, even in the face of life's toughest challenges. About the Guest: Sorcha Sylvester-Martin was born with cystic fibrosis and told she wouldn’t live past 18. Defying the odds, she faced significant challenges, including a battle with addiction following the loss of her grandmother, who had been her main source of strength. Today, Sorcha lives a holistic life focused on self-care and movement. She is committed to raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by individuals living with chronic illnesses and addiction. Her life story is a powerful example of resilience, transformation, and the enduring will to live fully. Key Takeaways: The Power of Resilience: Sorcha’s journey highlights the strength of the human spirit to overcome even the most daunting medical and personal challenges. Coping with Chronic Illness: Insights into the emotional and psychological impact of living with a chronic illness from a young age, including the struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Addiction as a Coping Mechanism: How addiction can become a misguided method of coping with the pain and uncertainty of chronic illness, and the importance of finding healthier ways to deal with emotional trauma. The Role of Support Systems: The critical role that loved ones, like Sorcha’s grandmother, play in providing support and encouragement, and the profound impact their loss can have. Transforming Pain into Purpose: Sorcha’s shift from living with the expectation of an early death to embracing life fully, focusing on self-care, and advocating for others facing similar challenges. Holistic Healing: The importance of a holistic approach to health, including movement, self-care, and mental well-being, in managing chronic illness and recovering from addiction.

28 Elo 202420min

In this episode of "Healthy Mind, Healthy Life," host sits down with Dr. Cali Estes, widely recognized as "The Addictions Coach." Dr. Estes brings her wealth of experience in addiction recovery, life coaching, and mental health to the discussion, sharing her inspiring personal journey from battling addiction to becoming a leading figure in the field. The conversation delves into the current trends in addiction and mental health, the innovative strategies Dr. Estes employs, including her unique Sober on Demand program, and the evolving role of technology in addiction recovery. About the Guest: Dr. Cali Estes is a powerhouse in the field of addiction recovery and mental health. A 5-time #1 best-selling author, founder of the largest online addiction and mental health education school, and host of the podcast "Unpause Your Life," Dr. Estes has helped countless individuals, from CEOs to celebrities, unlock their potential and overcome addiction. Her personal battle with addiction and her passion for psychology led her to develop innovative recovery programs that focus not just on stopping harmful behavior but on transforming lives. Key Takeaways: Personal Journey: Dr. Cali Estes shares her path from addiction to becoming a leader in the field, highlighting the importance of understanding the root causes of addiction. Current Trends: A discussion on the major shifts in addiction and mental health in 2024, including the challenges individuals face in seeking help. Sober on Demand: An exploration of Dr. Estes' innovative concierge-style addiction recovery program and how it's revolutionizing the approach to treatment. Technology and Mental Health: Insights into the role of technology in addiction recovery, including the development of apps that provide real-time support for those struggling with substance abuse. Harm Reduction and Behavioral Change: The importance of not just reducing harm but also addressing the underlying behaviors and lifestyle changes necessary for long-term recovery.

28 Elo 202415min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana steps in for Avik to engage in a profound discussion with Jonathan Hunt-Glassman, the co-founder and CEO of Oar Health. Jonathan shares his personal journey of overcoming alcohol addiction and the inspiration behind creating Oar Health, an innovative platform offering accessible, medication-assisted treatment for alcohol use disorder. The episode delves into the alarming surge in alcohol consumption during the pandemic, the long-term consequences, and how Jonathan's platform is helping people regain control over their lives. About the Guest: Jonathan Hunt-Glassman is a healthcare entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in the industry, including roles at Humana, Optum, and Bain & Company. As the co-founder and CEO of Oar Health, Jonathan is on a mission to make treatment for alcohol use disorder more accessible and effective. His personal experience with alcohol addiction has fueled his passion for helping others find the right tools and support to overcome similar challenges. Key Takeaways: Personal Journey of Recovery: Jonathan discusses his battle with alcohol addiction, emphasizing how finding the right treatment, including prescription medication, was crucial in his recovery. Pandemic Impact on Alcohol Use: The episode highlights the significant increase in alcohol consumption during the pandemic, with a 35% rise in alcohol-related deaths, indicating the ongoing and long-term impact on public health. Innovative Solutions: Jonathan explains how Oar Health aims to fill the gaps in current treatment options by providing accessible, evidence-based solutions, including medication-assisted treatment, through a user-friendly, telehealth platform. Awareness and Accessibility: The conversation sheds light on the importance of awareness about the diverse treatment options available for alcohol use disorder and the need for more accessible solutions that cater to individual needs. Telehealth's Role in Treatment: The discussion underscores how the rapid adoption of telehealth during the pandemic has expanded access to treatment for alcohol use disorder, offering a discreet and convenient option for those seeking help.

28 Elo 202422min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana steps in for Avik and engages in a profound conversation with Mosongo Moukwa, a best-selling author and seasoned business strategist with over 30 years of experience. The discussion delves into the transformative journey of entrepreneurship, emphasizing how small business owners can achieve time and financial freedom. Mosongo shares his personal story of transitioning from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and lessons learned along the way. He offers insights into building a strong foundation, scaling operations, and finding balance between business success and personal fulfillment. Key Takeaways: Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship: Mosongo's journey from senior leadership in major corporations to entrepreneurship underscores the importance of taking calculated risks and following one's true calling. Building a Strong Business Foundation: Establishing a solid infrastructure is crucial for business growth. Entrepreneurs need to ensure market-product alignment, lead generation, and operational efficiency before scaling up. Overcoming Challenges: The path to success is often filled with loneliness, frustration, and stress, especially in the early stages. However, persistence and continuous learning are key to navigating these obstacles. Scaling Operations: Achieving six-figure revenues requires a different operational approach. Entrepreneurs must be prepared to adapt their strategies and structures as their businesses grow. Balancing Business and Personal Life: True success involves not only financial gains but also prioritizing time with loved ones and reigniting personal passions. Mosongo emphasizes the importance of finding this balance for long-term fulfillment.

27 Elo 202418min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana engages in a deep conversation with Tenya Eickenberg, an energy healer and self-care coach, who shares her transformative journey from battling depression and anxiety through conventional methods to discovering the life-changing power of energy healing. Tenya talks about how she transitioned from traditional medication and talk therapy, which left her feeling numb, to finding solace and emotional release through the Emotion Code. This episode explores the core concepts of energy healing, the importance of intent in the healing process, and how it differs from conventional treatments. Tenya also delves into the significance of understanding and releasing trapped emotions and how this practice has not only changed her life but also empowered her to help others. Key Takeaways: Personal Journey to Healing: Tenya shares how traditional methods failed her and how energy healing provided the emotional freedom she sought. Understanding Energy Healing: A discussion on what energy healing is, the different modalities it includes, and how it works to move and release trapped energy in the body. The Power of Intent: Insight into how setting clear intentions plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of energy healing. Releasing Trapped Emotions: The importance of identifying and releasing inherited and deeply-seated emotions for holistic well-being. Holistic vs. Conventional Approaches: A comparison of energy healing with conventional medicine and therapy, emphasizing the benefits of a holistic approach to mental and emotional health.

27 Elo 202421min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty welcomes the inspiring Gina, whose life story is a testament to resilience, faith, and personal transformation. Gina shares her experiences of overcoming significant early-life challenges, including medical issues and feelings of inadequacy, and how the profound loss of her mother led her on a spiritual journey that culminated in a 12-year convent life. Through her story, Gina reveals how she found solace in faith, reclaimed her purpose, and now dedicates her life to helping others in their most vulnerable moments. This episode delves into Gina's journey from enduring darkness to emerging into the light with a deep sense of spirituality and compassion. Key Takeaways: Resilience Through Adversity: Gina's early medical challenges and feelings of inadequacy shaped her resilience and outlook on life, showing how family support can be a crucial factor in overcoming difficulties. The Impact of Loss: The passing of Gina's mother was a pivotal moment that led her into a dark period but eventually guided her toward a deeper spiritual awakening and purpose. Transformation Through Faith: Gina’s journey from a life of uncertainty and searching to finding peace and purpose in spirituality demonstrates the transformative power of faith. Helping Others Through Experience: Gina’s experiences have not only transformed her own life but have also equipped her with the compassion and understanding to help others in their most challenging moments. The Power of Seeking and Running: Gina reflects on her earlier years of seeking love and running from herself, illustrating the importance of self-acceptance and finding inner peace.

27 Elo 202422min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik dives into the intersection of mental health and relationships with guest Kristal Desantis, a licensed marriage and family therapist and author of "Strong: A Relationship Guide for the Modern Man." Kristal Desantis shares her insights on the unique challenges men face in relationships today, especially in a world where emotional connection has become a priority. She discusses her STRONG model of relational therapy, which blends trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches to help men build resilience and foster healthy, meaningful relationships. Drawing from her extensive experience working with first responders and trauma survivors, Kristal Desantis emphasizes the importance of emotional strength and healing in building successful relationships. Key Takeaways: Evolving Relationship Dynamics: Modern relationships demand emotional connection, which contrasts with past generations where practical concerns often dominated. Many people today struggle to develop the emotional skills needed for fulfilling relationships. Challenges for Men: Men often face unique challenges in relationships due to societal expectations of strength and resilience. Resources tailored for men's relational growth are scarce, motivating Crystal to write her book. The STRONG Model: This model emphasizes the importance of emotional strength, healing from trauma, and developing healthy attachment styles to foster successful relationships. Trauma and Attachment: Unhealed trauma and unhealthy attachment patterns can significantly hinder relationship success. Addressing these issues is crucial for building and maintaining healthy connections. Redefining Strength: Strength is not just about physical resilience but also about emotional vulnerability and the ability to heal and grow from past experiences.

26 Elo 202418min