Gen X Career Reinvention: Quiet Grief, Identity Shifts & Practical Next Steps with Shelley McIntyre

In this soul-deep conversation on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty is joined by Dr. Lori Joan Swick—author, spiritual scholar, and dream researcher—for an exploration of dreaming as a sacred and mindful practice. Lori shares insights from her book Dreaming—The Sacred Art, revealing how dreamwork can serve as a powerful spiritual discipline and tool for self-awareness, creativity, and healing. This episode delves into the intersection of ancient traditions, modern neuroscience, and personal experience to reframe dreaming not as random mental noise, but as profound inner guidance. About the Guest:Dr. Lori Joan Swick holds a Ph.D. in religion and philosophy and has dedicated her life to elevating women’s spiritual voices. She is the bestselling author of The Sculptor and the Saint and Dreaming—The Sacred Art. A passionate advocate of sacred dreamwork, Lori blends academic rigor with intuitive wisdom to help others understand the transformative power of the dream world. She also hosts the video blog How Women Initiated the World’s Religions. Key Takeaways: Dreams are not random; they are messages from the subconscious and soul. Mindful dreaming can be developed through intention, lucid awareness, and journaling. Eastern and Indigenous traditions view dreams as extensions of waking life—tools for healing and insight. Lucid dreaming, long explored in Tibetan practices and by Western scientists like Stephen LaBerge, bridges mysticism and neuroscience. Dream recall improves with focused attention and morning reflection. Patterns in dreams often point to emotional truths or guidance. Connect with Lori Joan Swick:Website: www.lorijoanswick.comFacebook & Instagram: Lori Joan Swick   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikTune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe 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 #dreamwork #luciddreaming #mindfulness #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #SpiritualHealing #ConsciousLiving #DreamInterpretation #InnerWisdom

6 Juli 18min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik dives deep into the psychology of crisis management with Mike Swenson, a retired journalist and expert in crisis communications. Mike shares actionable strategies for preparing mentally and emotionally before disaster strikes—because as he says, being unprepared is the real crisis. From building resilience to navigating corporate or personal emergencies, this episode offers a blueprint for staying calm, clear, and in control, even in the most chaotic moments.   About the Guest:Mike Swenson is a seasoned crisis strategist, former press secretary to the Governor of Kansas, and founder of Barclay Public Relations. With decades of experience managing high-stakes situations, Mike created CrisisTrak, a step-by-step tool designed to help organizations and individuals develop effective crisis plans. He’s a thought leader in purpose-driven branding and emergency response preparedness, passionate about helping people move from panic to purpose.   Key Takeaways: Crisis planning isn’t fear-based—it’s freedom-based. Emotional chaos can be reduced with a clear plan and team. CrisisTrak helps people respond, not react, in emergencies. Leadership during crisis means acting quickly, not perfectly. Preparation helps preserve trust, stability, and health—personally and professionally.   Connect with Mike Swenson:Find Mike on LinkedIn: Mike SwensonExplore the CrisisTrak tool: https://crisistrak.com/ (Track spelled "TRAK")   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM 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 #MentalHealthAwareness #CrisisPlanning #LeadershipUnderPressure #EmotionalResilience #PreparednessMindset #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #ConsciousLiving #MindfulnessMatters #VoicesOfUnity

6 Juli 23min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, Avik Chakraborty sits down with Michael Leung, the founder and CEO of The Flow Group, to explore how personal adversity became the foundation for global innovation. From childhood trauma and vision loss to addiction and bankruptcy, Michael opens up about the raw realities that shaped his mission to transform hearing accessibility. Through his open-ear bone conduction device, he's challenging the status quo—making high-quality hearing support affordable for seniors and low-income communities. This isn’t just a conversation about tech. It’s a wake-up call about purpose, perseverance, and building from the rubble. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unseen, Michael’s story will remind you what’s still possible.   About the Guest:Michael Leung is the visionary behind The Flow Group, a company redefining accessibility for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Driven by his own lived experience with PTSD, ADHD, and vision impairment, Michael created an affordable, open-ear hearing device that leverages bone conduction technology. His product bridges the gap between dignity and innovation, and his journey has been featured on Forbes, Dragon's Den, and the upcoming docu-series Legacy Makers.   Key Takeaways: Michael’s near-blindness and trauma led to the creation of an innovative hearing device under $300. He challenges overpriced medical devices and promotes health tech equity. His journey underscores how tech can uplift dignity—not just deliver function. Resilience, mentorship, and self-awareness were key to his recovery and entrepreneurial success. Michael advocates for systemic change while using accessible tech to empower underserved populations.   Connect with Michael Leung: Website: www.theinnerflo.com (Use code Seniors10 for 10% off) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflogroup/ Watch Legacy Makers streaming Summer 2025   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatchDM Me Here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikTune to all our 15 podcasts:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe 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 #MentalHealthAwareness #AccessibilityInnovation #PodcastLife #TraumaToTriumph #TechForGood #HearingMatters #GrowthMindset #PurposeDrivenTech #VoicesOfUnity

6 Juli 20min

In this episode of Healthy Waves, Avik Chakraborty speaks with Aisha Rodrigue, co-founder of Human Garage, about holistic healing, nervous system regulation, emotional trauma, and embodied leadership. Aisha breaks down how stress lives in the body, why fascia holds the key to memory and healing, and how real transformation requires presence—not just effort. The conversation also tackles the myth of competence-based leadership and why true leaders must walk the path before guiding others.   About the Guest:Aisha Rodrigue is a globally recognized coach, speaker, and visionary co-founder of Human Garage. With a diverse background spanning luxury hospitality, trauma release, circus arts, and conscious leadership, Aisha has guided thousands through physical, emotional, and energetic recalibration. Her work centers around nervous system healing, fascia therapy, and teaching people to lead and live from inner alignment.   Key Takeaways: True holistic health considers physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being—not just symptoms. The nervous system plays a central role in healing; when it's dysregulated, the body prioritizes survival over repair. Trauma lives in the body and requires multi-layered healing—mental awareness alone isn’t enough. Mindfulness is more than meditation—it’s about being fully present in your healing. Leadership rooted in personal healing creates deeper human impact and authentic connection.   Connect with Aisha Rodrigue:Follow Aisha on Instagram: @aishahumangarageExplore Human Garage and start your healing journey: humangarage.netWatch free guided sessions: Human Garage TV on YouTubeDownload the app (pay-what-you-can model): Search “Human Garage” on your app store   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikTune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe 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/LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #MentalHealthAwareness #MindfulnessMatters #HealingJourney #TraumaInformed #NervousSystemHealing #HolisticLeadership #PodcastLife

6 Juli 33min

In this compelling episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with life coach and creator of The Unstoppable Man's Playbook, John Mylant, to discuss the silent struggle many men over 40 face: the inner critic. John shares how high-performing, self-employed men often deal with hidden self-doubt and fear—even when everything looks “successful” on the outside. He explains how fear subtly sabotages momentum and offers a simple but powerful mindset shift to silence that voice and let love, confidence, and decisiveness take the lead. Whether you’re stuck in hesitation or seeking more purpose, this conversation helps men understand their inner barriers and choose transformation.   About the Guest:John Mylant is a transformational life coach, speaker, and the founder of Own the Zone: 21-Day Challenge. With decades of life experience and self-discovery, John now dedicates his work to helping men break free from subconscious fear and reclaim their power. His bold yet grounded approach supports men in creating a life led by confidence and love, not survival mode.   Key Takeaways: The inner critic is rooted in fear—it’s designed to keep you safe, not successful. Most men operate from subconscious fear without even realizing it. Confidence is a conscious choice and begins with action, not perfection. Silence the inner critic by practicing awareness, logic, and mindful decision-making. Reclaiming confidence after 40 requires consistency and decisiveness, built on love, not fear.   Connect with John Mylant: Email: jmylant@yahoo.com Text (U.S.): +1-719-609-2886   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?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 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/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #MentalHealthAwareness #MensHealth #InnerCritic #PurposeDrivenLife #MindfulnessMatters #ConfidenceAfter40 #GrowthMindset

6 Juli 25min

In this deeply honest episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty brings together three men—Chris Marhefka, Andrew Wilson, and Steve Wilson—whose lives have been transformed by trauma, resilience, and the pursuit of emotional truth. Together, they explore what real mental strength looks like when it’s not about pushing through pain but learning to pause, feel, and heal. From trauma-informed coaching to peer-led support groups, they shed light on the challenges of vulnerability, the power of truth-telling, and the complexities of forgiveness. About the Guests:Chris Marhefka is a transformational coach and co-founder of 13 Pines. Once a high-performing entrepreneur, a near-death health crisis redirected his life toward deep healing, embodiment, and guiding others.Andrew Wilson is a trauma-informed fear coach, author, and podcast host who helps others reclaim power from fear and pain by tapping into subconscious healing and radical self-care.Steve Wilson is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and misdiagnosed bipolar disorder. Today, he facilitates mental health support groups in Phoenix, offering grounded peer-based healing for those battling deep trauma. Key Takeaways: Mental strength isn’t just about endurance—it’s about knowing when to rest, listen, and feel. Trauma shows up as behavior until we recognize the pain behind it. Vulnerability in men’s groups can unlock healing for entire rooms. Forgiveness is personal—not everyone is ready for it, and that’s okay. Peer support is often the missing link for those lost in systemic gaps. Healing starts when we stop performing and start reconnecting with what feels true. Connect with the Guests: Chris Marhefka – https://www.chrismarhefka.com Andrew Wilson – https://www.andrewfwilson.com/ Steve Wilson – Reach through his published work and mental health groups in Phoenix   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatchDM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikTune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe 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

5 Juli 58min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, Dr. Catrina Mitchum shares her journey from burnout in higher education to building a business that transforms how we learn online. From leaving a prestigious academic identity to redefining learning as an experience, not just content, Dr. Mitchum brings clarity and courage to a conversation every course creator—and learner—needs to hear. We discuss why so many online courses fail, how poor design impacts confidence, and why it’s never your fault if you didn’t finish that course.   About the Guest:Dr. Catrina Mitchum is the founder of Catrina Mitchum Learning Design, an education expert, and course design disruptor. A recovering academic, she’s on a mission to transform course creation from static content dumps into engaging, empowering experiences. With a focus on learner transformation and instructional integrity, she helps service-based businesses bring real change through intentional design.   Key Takeaways: Burnout often comes silently—reconnecting with your body is the first step toward healing. Walking away from a toxic role isn’t failure—it’s clarity. Great courses start with action, not content. Poor course design can damage learner confidence and limit business growth. Redesigning is possible—and often more rewarding than starting from scratch. Course creators don’t need to be teaching experts—it’s okay to ask for help.   Connect with Dr. Catrina Mitchum:Reach her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrina-mitchum-learning-design/   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM me on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Explore More Episodes:Tune in to all 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavikSubscribe to Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.comJoin the 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 #onlinelearning #burnoutrecovery #coursecreation #learningdesign #selfpacedlearning

5 Juli 23min

In this episode of Healthy Waves, we explore what it truly means to heal and glow from the inside out with wellness visionaries Raven Alvarez and Sharon Vendle. Raven, founder of Seraphine Wellness & Beauty in Fort Lauderdale, and Sharon, founder of Serenity Wellness Spa in San Francisco, unpack the truth behind holistic beauty, the power of daily rituals, and how to make self-care accessible beyond the spa walls. From burnout to reinvention, we dive into how wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a life-altering necessity. Tune in to learn how ancient healing, mindset, and consistent micro-practices can transform your skin, spirit, and career. About the Guests:Raven Alvarez is a med spa visionary, healer, and founder of Seraphine Spa in Fort Lauderdale. With over 25 years in wellness, she blends aesthetics with soul-level healing and spiritual entrepreneurship.Sharon Vendle transitioned from corporate retail to create a 7-figure wellness business. As a massage therapist, esthetician, and wellness coach, she empowers midlife reinvention and intentional living through accessible daily wellness practicesKey Takeaways: Healing starts with alignment—between body, spirit, work, and relationships. Beauty isn’t about appearance—it’s how you feel and how you show up. True wellness doesn’t require luxury—just consistency, mindset, and intentional care. Reinvention at any age is possible when you allow small steps to lead the way. Systemic barriers exist, but mindset, community, and conscious pivots hold immense power. Connect with Raven Alvarez:Website: www.seraphinespa.comEmail: info@seraphinespa.comInstagram & TikTok: @theeravenalvarez   Connect with Sharon Vendle:Website: www.serenitysf.comInstagram: @serenity.sf2013Visit: Serenity Wellness Spa, Union Street, San Francisco   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM 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 #MentalHealthAwareness #HolisticBeauty #MindBodyConnection #Entrepreneurship #PersonalGrowth #MidlifeReinvention #WellnessJourney #AccessibleHealing #ConsciousLiving #SoulCare

5 Juli 39min