Why Do We Struggle to Let Go and How Can the Body Lead the Way with Somatic Freedom? featuring Melanie Smithson

In this engaging episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by body transformation coach and fitness mentor, Harry Barnes, to uncover why most fitness plans fail and how to create sustainable habits for long-term success. With 14 years of experience and over 5,000 successful client transformations, Harry dives deep into the importance of consistency, realistic goals, and the mindset shift required to achieve lasting results. Together, they discuss how quick-fix solutions, crash diets, and rigid regimens often lead to burnout, and share practical strategies to avoid those common pitfalls. About the Guest:Harry Barnes is a body transformation coach, fitness writer, and business mentor with a Precision Nutrition Master Health Coach certification. Over the last 14 years, Harry has helped thousands of clients and fitness professionals build sustainable programs that prioritize long-term health and wellness over temporary wins. Reach: https://www.instagram.com/coachharrybarnes    Key Takeaways: Consistency Over Perfection: Small, achievable steps are better than aiming for perfection and burning out. Avoid Quick Fixes: Rapid weight-loss programs may be enticing but are rarely sustainable. Enjoyment is Key: Choose workouts and routines you genuinely enjoy to stay committed long-term. Flexible Structure: Fitness programs should allow for adaptability and realistic habits, not rigid schedules. Identify Triggers: Understanding what causes inconsistencies (like weekend binge eating) is key to progress. Connect with Harry on Instagram: @CoachHarryBarnes  Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch: DM Me Here: PodMatch Subscribe to Newsletter:Healthy Mind Newsletter Join Community:Nas.io Community Stay Tuned And Follow Us: YouTube - @healthymind-healthylife Instagram - @podhealth.club Threads - @podhealth.club Facebook - Healthy Mind LinkedIn - Avik Chakraborty #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

12 Feb 25min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by Christiane Schroeter—top 1% podcaster, Amazon bestselling author, and business coach. Christiane introduces us to the transformative power of her "petite practice" framework, which focuses on achieving balance and success through small, intentional daily actions. From overcoming hustle culture to aligning habits with personal values, Christiane shares insights on simplifying goals and creating sustainable progress in life and business. She also highlights how mindfulness, reflection, and starting with your "why" can lead to long-term success.   About the Guest:Christiane Schroeter is a renowned business coach, bestselling author, and podcast host ranked in the top 1% globally. Passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs, she helps her clients unlock potential through purpose-driven, intentional strategies designed for sustainable growth and balance. Reach: https://hellohappynest.com/    Key Takeaways: Start Small: Significant growth comes from micro-habits practiced consistently over time. Why Matters: Define your core motivation and connect your habits to this purpose for lasting impact. Overcome Overwhelm: Break down large goals into manageable tasks and prioritize only three daily goals. Mindfulness and Reflection: Regularly reflect on past accomplishments to fuel future motivation. Sustainable Balance: Balance isn’t perfection—it’s about creating harmony through intentional scheduling and boundaries. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch, DM Me Here: PodMatch Subscribe To Newsletter: Healthy Mind Newsletter Join Community: Join Here Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube - YouTube Channel Instagram - Instagram Page Threads - Threads Facebook - Facebook Page LinkedIn - LinkedIn Profile #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

11 Feb 29min

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Kristen Williamson, LPC, a counselor, consultant, and self-proclaimed “queen of organized chaos.” Diagnosed later in life with ADHD and autism, Kristen shares her transformative journey of embracing neurodivergence and helping others do the same. From the confusion and anger of late diagnosis to discovering her unique superpowers, Kristen offers valuable insights into how neurodivergent individuals can thrive in adulthood. This episode covers a range of powerful topics, including the challenges of navigating executive dysfunction, overcoming shame-based labels, and turning chaotic energy into creative and leadership strengths. Kristen also provides actionable advice for neurodivergent individuals and leaders looking to foster better communication, resilience, and productivity.   About the Guest:Kristen Williamson, LPC, is a counselor and advocate specializing in helping late-diagnosed neurodivergent individuals. With a background rooted in personal experience and professional expertise, she empowers her clients to embrace their strengths and turn their “neuro-spicy” differences into superpowers. Reach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristensmith0045/    Key Takeaways: Late Diagnosis Revelation: Why Kristen initially resisted her diagnosis and how it transformed her understanding of herself. Neurodivergence and Superpowers: The unique abilities of neurodivergent brains, including hyper-focus, pattern recognition, and creativity. Overcoming Shame: Addressing the microaggressions and shame-based narratives that many neurodivergent individuals face. Actionable Steps: How simple, concrete strategies can help with executive dysfunction and time management. Leadership Advice: How leaders can support neurodivergent team members through clear communication and positive reinforcement.   Connect with Kristen:LinkedIn: Kristen Smith LPC   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe To Newsletter:Substack Join Community:Nas.io Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube:@healthymind-healthylife Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Podcast Healthy Mind LinkedIn:Avik #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #adhd #autism #neurodivergence #mentalhealth #leadership

8 Feb 21min

In this transformative episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, Avik Chakraborty is joined by James Early, a Bible teacher, podcast host of The Bible Speaks to You, and coach helping people think, pray, and love like Jesus. Together, they discuss the essence of spiritual health, emphasizing that it’s not something to chase but rather a wholeness already within us. James shares how struggles and doubts can be opportunities for deep spiritual growth and highlights the role of prayer as a transformative practice that reveals the truth of who we are in God’s eyes. They dive into uncovering purpose, the importance of moving beyond rigid religious dogma, and how to cultivate a personal relationship with God.   About the Guest:James Early is a Bible teacher, podcast host of The Bible Speaks to You, and spiritual coach. He has conducted Bible workshops in correctional facilities and has reached audiences in over 170 countries through his podcast, helping others deepen their connection to God. Reach: https://thebiblespeakstoyou.com/healthy/    Key Takeaways: Spiritual health is an innate part of our identity—we just need to uncover it. Doubt and struggle can be catalysts for deep spiritual growth. Prayer is a tool not for asking but for seeing what is already true about us in God’s kingdom. Discovering our purpose is less about seeking and more about uncovering what God has already prepared for us. Moving beyond theology involves focusing on loving others and embodying Christ’s teachings in daily life. Resources: Visit James Early’s special resource page: The Bible Speaks to You Check out his podcast: The Bible Speaks to You (Available on all podcast platforms) Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe to Newsletter:Healthy Mind Newsletter Join Community:Healthy Mind Community Stay Tuned and Follow Us: YouTube:Healthy Mind Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Healthy Mind Podcast LinkedIn:Avik Chakraborty #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

8 Feb 25min

In this transformative episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Doug J Wheeler, an experienced psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience, to explore the powerful connection between trauma recovery and imagination. Dr. Doug, who specializes in guiding men through anxiety, depression, and grief, discusses how trauma can darken our imagination and create a cycle of negative thinking and suffering. Dr. Doug delves into how reimagining one’s life can break free from the trauma-induced patterns of fear and anxiety. Through real-life examples, role-play exercises, and innovative tools like the "3 and 3" technique, he highlights how clients can shift their perspectives, reclaim their voices, and take actionable steps toward healing.   About the Guest:Dr. Doug J Wheeler holds a master’s degree in counseling and a doctorate in the integration of religion and society. His personal experience with healing from anxiety and low self-worth informs his empathetic, creative, and practical approach to trauma therapy. Reach: https://www.dougasguide.com/    Key Takeaways: Trauma and Imagination: Trauma distorts our imagination, often leading to negative forecasting and prolonged emotional suffering. The Power of Reimagining: How suspending time to observe and rethink habitual thought patterns can unlock new possibilities. Role-Play for Healing: How role-play exercises, such as confronting fears in real time, can lead to breakthroughs in therapy and life. The Internal Family Systems Model: Understanding the parts of ourselves that interact like an internal family and how they affect our mental state. Men and Trauma: Unique pressures men face in performance-driven environments and how reimagining can provide a pathway out.   Connect with Dr. Doug J Wheeler:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-wheeler-43b389152    Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe To Newsletter:Substack Join Community:Nas.io Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube:@healthymind-healthylife Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Podcast Healthy Mind LinkedIn:Avik #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #trauma #mentalhealth #imagination #IFS #healing

8 Feb 25min

In this insightful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by Davin Salvagno—bestselling author, speaker, and co-founder of The Purpose Summit—to explore the life-changing power of purpose. Davin shares his personal journey, including a defining car accident that transformed his perspective, and offers actionable advice on how to uncover your purpose through reflection and past experiences. He also highlights key mindsets, such as fear and comparison, that rob us of purpose and how to overcome them. Davin emphasizes the connection between purpose and profit, debunking the myth that the two are incompatible. If you're seeking to bridge the gap between a paycheck-driven job and a purpose-driven career, this conversation is for you.   About the Guest:Davin Salvagno is a recognized thought leader on purpose, author of Finding Purpose at Work and Thieves of Purpose, and co-founder of The Purpose Summit. He’s worked with Fortune 500 leaders and organizations to help individuals align their work with purpose for greater impact and fulfillment. Reach: https://www.davinsalvagno.com/    Key Takeaways: Purpose is where your passion and the world's pain intersect. Tragedies often trigger purpose discovery, but reflection on past challenges can guide you there naturally. Unbelief, fear, and comparison are key thieves of purpose that can be overcome by focusing on personal growth. Purpose and profit are interlinked: greater clarity of purpose leads to better outcomes and financial success. Bridge the gap between work and purpose by assessing your strengths and connecting them to a broader impact. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe to Newsletter:Healthy Mind Newsletter Join Community:Healthy Mind Community Stay Tuned and Follow Us: YouTube:Healthy Mind Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Healthy Mind Podcast LinkedIn:Avik Chakraborty #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

8 Feb 18min

In this inspiring episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Cindi Saj, an expert in mental health, trauma recovery, and holistic wellness. Dr. Saj is a counselor, educator, yoga instructor, and bestselling author of Finding Your Purpose and Finding Your Wellness. She shares her journey of integrating somatic practices like yoga with evidence-based therapies like EMDR and CBT to create a powerful healing experience. Dr. Saj discusses how EMDR works beyond eye movement to balance brain hemispheres, the importance of the body in trauma recovery, and how purpose is an evolving journey tied to self-discovery. Through her work with diverse communities, she sheds light on the importance of cultural sensitivity in counseling and how small mindset shifts can create lasting transformation.   About the Guest:Dr. Cindi Saj specializes in trauma-informed care, incorporating mindfulness, body movement, and somatic healing into traditional therapeutic practices. Her work focuses on helping clients find purpose and healing through a holistic approach. Reach: http://www.guidebookconsulting.ca/    Key Takeaways: EMDR Explained: Demystifying eye movement therapy and how bilateral stimulation helps balance emotional and logical brain functions. Somatic Healing: The body’s role in storing trauma and how yoga and movement can help release deep-seated wounds. Purpose as a Journey: Why purpose isn’t a fixed destination but a reflection of growth, self-awareness, and our evolving gifts. Cultural Sensitivity: How recognizing privilege and creating safe, inclusive spaces enhances therapy outcomes. CBT Meets Movement: How cognitive-behavioral techniques combined with body-based exercises amplify healing. One Piece of Advice:Remember, “This too shall pass.” Emotional storms are temporary, and you have everything within you to heal and grow. Connect with Dr. Cindi Saj:LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindi-saj-634904340?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Check Out Dr. Cindi Saj’s Books: Finding Your Purpose Finding Your Wellness Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe To Newsletter:Substack Join Community:Nas.io Stay Tuned And Follow Us! YouTube:@healthymind-healthylife Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Podcast Healthy Mind LinkedIn:Avik #mentalhealth #traumarecovery #EMDR #yoga #CBT #somatichealing #selfdiscovery #healthymind

8 Feb 24min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Waves, Avik Chakraborty sits down with Chad Austin—personal trainer, bestselling author, and owner of The Fitness Pivot—to discuss why fitness should be a top priority in life and how to make it a sustainable habit. Chad explains how life’s inevitable changes often derail fitness plans and why adapting to those changes is the key to consistency. He introduces the concept of becoming a “Fitness Fisherman,” someone who continuously adjusts and stays on track regardless of life’s demands. From avoiding the lure of instant gratification (or “turkey bacon traps”) to finding balance with treats, Chad’s insights will help you break the cycle of inconsistency and build long-term success.   About the Guest:Chad Austin is a personal trainer, bestselling author, and founder of The Fitness Pivot. With 20 years of experience, Chad helps busy professionals escape the inconsistency roller coaster and make fitness a lifelong priority.   Key Takeaways: Adapt to Life’s Changes: Fitness routines need to evolve as your life changes. Too Busy? Think Fit: “I’m too busy” often means “I’m too busy to work out like I used to.” Reframe this by finding what fits now. Beware of Instant Gratification: Avoid the “turkey bacon traps” of quick fixes and focus on consistency. Treats Without Guilt: Balance is key—enjoy treats intentionally without derailing progress. Become a Fitness Fisherman: Learn to adapt, reset, and stay on track despite life’s ups and downs. Resources and How to Connect: Visit Chad’s website: TheFitnessPivot.com Join the community for free accountability challenges and support.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here:PodMatch Subscribe to Newsletter:Healthy Mind Newsletter Join Community:Healthy Mind Community Stay Tuned and Follow Us: YouTube:Healthy Mind Instagram:@podhealth.club Threads:@podhealth.club Facebook:Healthy Mind Podcast LinkedIn:Avik Chakraborty #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

8 Feb 22min