Storytelling, Service, and Resilience for Mental Wellness with Paul Whitten

In this powerful episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Kate Ricciardi, founder of Digestion By Design and creator of the Root to Radiant Method, to unpack the deep connections between gut health, chronic inflammation, and subconscious identity. Dr. Kate shares her personal journey of overcoming IBS, migraines, and digestive struggles despite being a trained dietitian. She challenges conventional advice, advocates for personalized nutrition, and explains how subconscious patterns can keep us stuck in unhealthy cycles. If you’ve been told “this is just life” while struggling with fatigue, bloating, or brain fog—this conversation offers hope and actionable insights. About the Guest:Dr. Kate Ricciardi is a nutritionist, functional health expert, and the creator of Digestion By Design. After battling her own chronic digestive issues, she developed a personalized, science-backed approach to healing that goes beyond generic diets. Through her Root to Radiant Method, she helps clients tackle gut inflammation, uncover hidden food sensitivities, and address the identity-level habits that sabotage health. Key Takeaways: Why chronic inflammation is often the missing link in gut health issues How subconscious identity and habits can prevent long-term healing The myths of “healthy eating” without personalization Why intuitive eating alone may not be enough for some individuals How to recognize subtle signs of inflammation sabotaging your wellness Connect with Dr. Kate Ricciardi:Learn more at Digestion By Design or follow her on Instagram @digestionbydesign   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM me on PodMatch: DM Me HereTune to all our 15 podcasts: Listen NowSubscribe To Newsletter: Subscribe HereJoin Community: Join Here Stay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

18 Jun 202524min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Garrett Wood—founder of Gnosis Therapy, certified clinical hypnotherapist, and executive well-being coach—for a direct conversation about burnout, high performance, and what it really takes to thrive. Garrett reveals why burnout isn't just about bad time management and how the real problem lies in emotional suppression, perfectionist conditioning, and a lack of body-based well-being. From sleep and movement to nervous system regulation and hypnotherapy, this episode challenges the “grind culture” and provides powerful insights for leaders who want to stay aligned while succeeding. It’s a wake-up call for any high achiever stuck in survival mode.   About the Guest:Garrett Wood is a certified clinical hypnotherapist and executive well-being coach, specializing in helping high-achieving professionals transform burnout into meaningful breakthroughs. As the founder of Gnosis Therapy, Garrett brings together science-backed coaching, cognitive flexibility work, and subconscious healing to support leaders in moving from exhaustion to alignment. His approach is both strategic and embodied, helping people shift from performative success to sustainable leadership.   Key Takeaways: Burnout is not a personal failure—it’s a symptom of misalignment and cultural dysfunction. Most high achievers overlook the basics: sleep, movement, and nutrition. These are non-negotiables, not luxuries. Emotional suppression in high-pressure environments leads to nervous system overload and chronic stress. True well-being requires tuning in, not toughing up. Mindset alone is not enough; deep healing requires subconscious work and body-based support. Leadership improves when emotional regulation is prioritized—your energy impacts everyone around you.   Connect with Garrett Wood:Website: gnosistherapy.comExplore his free burnout self-assessment on his website for a personalized strategy to move forward.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM – Send me a message on PodMatch• DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik• Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik• Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/• Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us:• YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod• Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

18 Jun 202524min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Nisha Patel, LPC—licensed professional counselor, speaker, and founder of The Nisha. Together, they explore the deeper layers of addiction recovery, mindfulness, and what it truly means to live in alignment. Nisha shares her personal journey of 16+ years of sobriety, blending science and spirituality through tools like DBT, brainspotting, hypnotherapy, and Reiki. This honest conversation unpacks how healing is more than stopping behaviors—it’s reconnecting with core values, purpose, and self. Whether you're navigating addiction, burnout, or simply feeling disconnected, this episode offers actionable insights on reclaiming your life. About the Guest:Nisha Patel, LPC, is a therapist, sovereignty expert, and speaker with over 16 years of sobriety. She empowers individuals to heal, align with their values, and create a meaningful life using a unique mix of evidence-based therapy and holistic healing practices. Key Takeaways: Addiction recovery isn’t just about stopping; it’s about replacing, healing, and aligning with your core values. Mindfulness and meditation start small—sometimes with just one quiet minute. True alignment means living in integrity with your values, not society’s expectations. Healing work requires discipline—but in the right direction, with the right tools. “There’s no one-size-fits-all path to healing—what works for others might not work for you.”   Connect with Nisha:Instagram: @nishapatelcoachingWebsite: https://thenishe.com/ Email: nisha@nishatheniche.com   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM me on PodMatch:  DM Me HereTune into all 15 of our podcasts: Podcast NetworkSubscribe to the newsletter: Subscribe HereJoin the community: Join Us Stay Tuned and Follow Us:• YouTube: Healthy Mind, Healthy Life• Instagram: @healthyminds.pod• Threads: @healthyminds.pod• Facebook: Healthy Mind Podcast• LinkedIn: Avik Chakraborty | Reema Chatterjee #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

18 Jun 202522min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Waves, we explore the deep intersection of gut health, cardiac coherence, and nervous system transformation through two very different yet profoundly aligned lenses. Functional Medicine Health Coach Angie Gallagher breaks down the myths around cholesterol and heart disease, while Energy Priestess and veteran Susannah Rose Stokes unveils the emotional frequencies stored in the body—and how psilocybin-assisted ceremonies help release them. Together, they unpack the “three minds” of the body: gut, heart, and brain, and how breathwork, intuition, and inner stillness pave the way for true transformation. About the Guests:Angie Gallagher is a National Board-Certified Functional Medicine Coach with 25+ years in cardiac rehab. She bridges Western protocols with root-cause healing, specializing in metabolic and emotional health via the heart-gut-brain connection.Susannah Rose Stokes is a Marine veteran turned transformational guide and co-founder of Embodied Metamorphosis. Her work blends sacred plant medicine with somatic healing, activating deep nervous system repair and energetic integration.   Key Takeaways: Cholesterol is often scapegoated; inflammation and metabolic dysfunction are deeper culprits in heart disease. The gut-heart-brain axis operates as an intelligent, energetic ecosystem—not isolated systems. Psychedelics like psilocybin can support nervous system repair when used ceremonially. Breathwork is the first step to self-regulation and intuitive reconnection. True resilience requires spiritual surrender and metabolic awareness, not just behavior change. Connect with the Guests:Susannah Rose StokesWebsite: metamorphosis.venturesInstagram: @susannahroses | @embodiedmetamorphosis Angie GallagherWebsite: heartwellnesscoaching.comInstagram & Facebook: @heartwellnesscoaching or search Angie Gallagher   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM – Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us!• YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod• Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

16 Jun 202545min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Paul H. Flowers Jr.—entrepreneur, national sales director, nonprofit founder, and faith-driven leader—to explore the balance between ambition and inner peace. Paul shares how his understanding of peace has evolved from simple quiet to purposeful engagement, personal development, and spiritual alignment. He opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, the turning points that shaped his purpose, and how he avoids burnout while serving others. The conversation offers practical insights for anyone feeling stuck and wondering if it’s truly possible to live passionately while staying grounded. About the Guest:Paul H. Flowers Jr. is an entrepreneur, national sales director, certified scrum master, nonprofit founder, devoted husband, father, and faith-driven leader. Over his career, Paul has led national teams, trained thousands, and helped countless people through financial, legal, and health literacy. His unique blend of leadership, service, and personal growth continues to inspire others to live fully and on purpose. Key Takeaways: Peace is not about quiet but purposeful alignment with life’s responsibilities. Personal development and self-awareness are critical to transformation. The turning point comes with self-investment and taking deliberate action. Burnout prevention requires structured time blocking and intentional self-care. Asking "Who am I?" can spark powerful internal shifts and clarity. Connect with Paul H. Flowers Jr.:Website: Paul H. Flowers Jr.'s Website LinkedIn: Search Paul H. Flowers Jr.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

15 Jun 202533min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by Nadja Sayej, journalist, author, and creative entrepreneur, to explore how business can be a true spiritual practice. From hitting rock bottom and living on welfare to interviewing Hollywood celebrities and writing for the New York Times, Nadja shares her raw journey of blending spirituality with business. She discusses how manifestation is not just about visualization but daily disciplined action, mindset shifts, and overcoming fear with courage. Nadja breaks down the reality of staying self-motivated as a freelancer and building a business that is both soulful and financially sustainable. About the Guest:Nadja Sayej is an international journalist, author of 8 books, and founder of her own creative agency. She has interviewed icons like Susan Sarandon, David Lynch, and Salma Hayek, written for top publications including the New York Times and Forbes, and blends her passion for storytelling with spiritual and practical business wisdom. Key Takeaways: Manifestation requires hard work, consistency, and aligning mindset with disciplined action. Staying spiritually grounded helps navigate the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. Business success demands courage that’s bigger than fear. Gratitude and small daily practices fuel self-motivation. Creativity has immense value, even in highly competitive industries. The entrepreneurial journey requires creating your own unique roadmap. Connect with Nadja Sayej:Instagram: @nadjasayej   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

15 Jun 202524min

In this deeply insightful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with 91-year-old submariner, author, and Naval Academy graduate James D. Paulk Jr. Jim shares his incredible journey, from commanding submarines to publishing his latest book Shaking Up The World. Filled with moving stories of resilience, history, and personal triumphs, Jim reflects on the power of staying positive, building deep connections, and leaving a meaningful legacy. His life proves that purpose doesn’t retire — it evolves. Whether it’s interviewing an Apollo astronaut, telling the survival stories of his classmates, or embracing writing late in life, Jim reminds us that every chapter holds potential. About the Guest:James D. Paulk Jr. is a 91-year-old submariner, Naval Academy graduate, business leader, conservationist, and now an author. His book Shaking Up The World features 81 stories from his Naval Academy classmates, covering extraordinary life events—from surviving Auschwitz and POW camps to creating the GPS system and walking on the moon. Key Takeaways: A positive mindset is critical for a long, fulfilling life. Legacy is built through connection and storytelling. Even late in life, you can evolve, create, and inspire. The book captures personal histories that reflect major 20th-century events. Actively dealing with problems is more powerful than worrying. Connect with James D. Paulk Jr.: Facebook: Search for James D. Paulk Jr. Author or Jim Paulk Direct message him on Facebook for conversations and connections - https://www.facebook.com/people/James-D-Paulk-Jr-Author/61565536059908/ Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned And Follow Us!• YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife• Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod• Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

15 Jun 202528min

In this heart-opening episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by mystic, teacher, and speaker Kalen Olson to explore the power of reconnecting with the body’s sacred intelligence. Together, they uncover how mental patterns and societal conditioning keep us trapped in disconnection—and how returning to our unique inner rhythm can dissolve old identities and restore emotional freedom. Kalen shares how sacred feminine and masculine energies can work in harmony to support embodied healing and how simple daily rituals can awaken our inner radiance. This episode is a gentle but powerful invitation to reorient your life from presence, pleasure, and embodied truth. About the Guest:Kalen Olson is a mystic, teacher, and speaker who guides individuals—especially women—back to the wisdom of their bodies. For over 7 years, she has helped seekers reclaim their sacred rhythm by blending non-dualism, forgiveness work, and the union of feminine and masculine principles. Her work makes the sacred tangible through grounded embodiment and conscious living. Key Takeaways: Your body carries wisdom far deeper than mental logic—listen to it. Sacred embodiment is not escapism; it’s the gateway to deeper truth and presence. Radiance isn’t a trait, it’s a frequency cultivated by how you live and relate. Feminine intuition and masculine structure must work together for true integration. Everyday actions like cooking or walking can be transformed into sacred rituals. Connect with Kalen Olson:Website: https://www.kalenolson.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalenolson/   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here Tune in to all our 15 podcast shows:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe to Newsletter:https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Our Community:https://nas.io/healthymind   Stay Tuned and Follow Us:YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #femininewisdom #embodiment #wellness #nonduality #healingjourney #sacredroutine

9 Jun 202525min