Rethinking Alcohol: Turning “I Need a Drink” Into Real Needs (Confidence, Connection, Calm) with Anna Donaghey

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Barbara Gustavson, a brain health educator and neuroscience-informed leadership coach. Together, they explore what it truly means to reset your thinking in a high-stress world. Barbara shares real-life stories, including her own caregiving journey, and introduces a practical REGROUP framework for calming the nervous system, reclaiming energy, and leading from alignment. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders, caregivers, and anyone ready to shift from survival to sustainable strength—one breath at a time. About the Guest:Barbara Gustavson is a leadership coach and brain health educator who guides professionals through burnout recovery and mental reset using neuroscience-backed tools. With personal experience as a long-term caregiver, she now teaches others how to recognize early signs of nervous system overload and reconnect with resilience using her unique REGROUP framework. Her work emphasizes the importance of micro-resets, self-leadership, and prioritizing brain health. Key Takeaways: Burnout often starts with subtle signs—like sleep disruption, brain fog, and feeling the need to do it all. Barbara’s “REGROUP” method helps you regulate your nervous system, identify energy drains, and reconnect with your inner resilience. Small shifts like breathwork or reframing negative thoughts can lead to big changes in mental clarity and emotional stability. Resilience isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about aligning with your values, practicing margin, and honoring your energy. Neuroplasticity proves the brain can heal. Gentle, consistent tools work better than massive overhauls. Connect with Barbara Gustavson:Website: www.discovernextstep.com   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PodMatch: DM Me Here   Explore More: Tune to all our 15 podcasts: Podcast Network Subscribe To Newsletter: Newsletter Join Community: Join Us   Stay Tuned and Follow Us:YouTube: @healthymind-healthylifeInstagram: @healthyminds.podThreads: @healthyminds.podFacebook: Podcast PageLinkedIn: Reema Chatterjee | Avik Chakraborty #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #MentalHealthAwareness #ResilienceTools #Neuroscience #BurnoutRecovery #ConsciousLiving #MindfulnessMatters #PersonalDevelopment

1 Juli 202522min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, mindset strategist and author Nicole Tuxbury opens up about turning lifelong pain into unshakable strength. From losing her mother at one, to being diagnosed with a degenerative spinal condition at 21, and surviving pregnancy loss—Nicole’s story isn’t about what happened to her; it’s about who she chose to become. We explore how gratitude helped her rebuild from the inside out, how flaws can be superpowers, and how healing begins with radical self-honesty. If you’re stuck in pain, stuck in patterns, or feel like your story is too broken to rebuild, this conversation will challenge that belief. About the Guest:Nicole Tuxbury is a mindset strategist, Meta-certified community manager, and host of the Overcome Yourself podcast. She’s been featured by BuzzFeed for her raw, impactful work helping high achievers break through mental walls. Her book Overcome Yourself explores mindset transformation, emotional resilience, and redefining adversity as a catalyst for growth. Key Takeaways: Gratitude is a powerful anchor, especially during adversity Early pain often shapes unconscious roles—like “the strong one”—that need healing A “flaw” like talking too much can become a purpose-driven superpower Overcoming isn't about toxic growth—it’s about mindful transformation and rest Healing starts when we stop hiding and begin reframing our story Connect with Nicole Tuxbury:Visit: nicoletuxbury.com/resourcesGet free tools, connect on social, and explore ways to work with Nicole. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?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 #healthymindbyavik #wellness #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomeYourself #GratitudeHealing #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #EmotionalResilience #GrowthMindset #HealingJourney #ResilienceInAction #VoicesOfUnity #InspirationDaily

1 Juli 202525min

In this gripping episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sana sits down with Katinka Blackford Newman—best-selling author, investigative journalist, and founder of Antidepressantrisks.org. Together, they unpack the pharmaceutical myth of the “chemical imbalance” behind depression and explore how one pill nearly cost Katinka everything. From personal psychosis to global data gaps, Katinka sheds light on the long-term effects, the overlooked risks, and the necessity for informed consent. This isn’t a call to abandon medication—it’s a call to question the status quo. About the Guest:Katinka Blackford Newman is an award-winning filmmaker, journalist, and author of The Pill That Steals Lives. After a harrowing experience with psychiatric medication, Katinka became an advocate for informed consent and safe mental health care. She founded Antidepressantrisks.org to educate others on the real, often hidden dangers of these medications and now coaches people using non-drug-based emotional resilience strategies. Key Takeaways: The “chemical imbalance” theory of depression has never been scientifically proven. Antidepressants can cause severe reactions in genetically sensitive individuals—including psychosis and suicidality. Withdrawal from long-term use can lead to debilitating effects and protracted neurological damage. Doctors are often unaware of the full risks due to limited training and biased drug trials. Katinka offers practical, non-pharmacological coaching tools that address emotions, beliefs, and behavioral change.   Connect with Katinka Blackford Newman: Life Coaching:www.kbnlifecoaching.co.uk Mental Health Education:www.antidepressantrisks.org Check out her podcast - The Med Free Mental Fitness on YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@KatinkaBlackfordNewman   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 #MentalHealthAwareness #ThePillThatStealsLives #InformedConsent #AntidepressantRisks #KatinkaBlackfordNewman #MentalHealthMyths #MindfulnessMatters #PsychiatricSurvivor #PodcastLife

1 Juli 202531min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik sits down with Lucas Navillos, co-founder of Atome Bakery — North America’s first French-inspired artisan online bakery. From personal cravings to a nationwide mission, Lucas shares how he and his partner Alice transformed a simple love for quality bread into a bold business venture. Discover the power of slow fermentation, why frozen ready-to-bake dough is redefining convenience, and how entrepreneurial couples can thrive in both love and business. If you've ever missed the taste of real bread, this episode is your wake-up call. About the Guest:Lucas Navillos is the co-founder of Atome Bakery, delivering organic, slow-fermented French bread across Western North America. With a background rooted in French culture and a passion for baking, Lucas and his life partner Alice are on a mission to bring back real bread — convenient, delicious, and gut-friendly — for everyone, everywhere. Together, they are building not just a bakery, but a movement that challenges industrial food norms. Key Takeaways: The inspiration behind Atome Bakery came from personal craving and the lack of quality bread in North America. Lucas and Alice discovered a game-changing solution with frozen, ready-to-bake dough. Their model balances French tradition with convenience — giving customers an authentic baking experience at home. As life and business partners, clear communication and defined boundaries help them thrive. Atome is expanding its delivery footprint across North America, with eyes on global markets like India. Connect with Lucas: Instagram:@AtomeBakery Facebook:Atome Bakery on Facebook   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message 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 #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #StorytellingAsMedicine #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #ConsciousLiving #GrowthMindset #MindfulnessMatters #VoicesOfUnity #InspirationDaily

1 Juli 202520min

In this episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Karen Aucoin—a former ballerina, dance studio owner, and now visionary floral designer and founder of JoBelle and Studio 131. Karen’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. After losing her studio while pregnant and grieving the loss of her mother, Karen built a thriving design and event business that now hosts over 500 celebrations. In this soulful conversation, she shares how creative expression, motherhood, and daily grounding practices like hypnosis and nature have helped her heal—and create spaces that heal others. About the Guest:Karen Aucoin is the founder of JoBelle and Studio 131, two vibrant creative spaces born from grief, courage, and a deep desire to bring beauty and community together. With a background in dance and a passion for floral design, Karen now crafts events that don’t just dazzle—they hold space for transformation. She is a mother of two, a creative force, and a grounded leader who champions intentional living, balance, and redefining success on your own terms. Key Takeaways: Karen’s journey from dancer to designer began with personal loss—and bloomed through purpose. Motherhood and entrepreneurship aren’t about perfection, but intention and presence. Rituals like hydration, hypnosis, and early mornings help Karen lead with clarity and avoid burnout. Her creative work is a meditative process that continues to heal her while serving others. Grounded leadership starts with honoring your nervous system and protecting your peace. Connect with Karen Aucoin:Follow and learn more about Karen’s work through her venues and floral design at Studio 131 and JoBelle Events. Links: https://www.studio131orangelake.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio131largo   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM me on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune into all our 15 podcasts:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe to the 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 #Wellness #StorytellingAsMedicine #PodcastLife #Resilience #CreativeHealing #MindfulnessMatters #WomenEntrepreneurs #MomBoss

1 Juli 202522min

In this powerful episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Stephanie Warlick, founder of 5FT View Consulting and author of Dark and Silent Office, to unpack the misunderstood link between ADHD, entrepreneurship, and transcendental meditation. Stephanie shares how discovering meditation transformed her leadership, calmed her overactive mind, and sparked a new level of creativity. From being labeled “too much” to becoming a sought-after fractional COO, she offers real-world insights on building inclusive workspaces, overcoming visionary blind spots, and turning neurodivergence into a superpower. If you've ever felt out of sync with traditional structures—this episode is your permission to lead differently.   About the Guest:Stephanie Warlick is the founder and CEO of 5FT View Consulting, an international bestselling author, HR strategist, and fractional COO. Diagnosed later in life with ADHD, she integrates mindfulness, operational clarity, and neurodiversity advocacy into her work. Her book Dark and Silent Office explores how to build inclusive, accessible workplaces for all.   Key Takeaways: Transcendental meditation can enhance both calm and creativity, especially for high-performing minds. ADHD is not a flaw—it’s often the driver of entrepreneurial innovation. Visionary leaders must learn to let go, delegate, and get out of their own way to scale. Inclusivity isn't just compliance—it’s about making sure everyone is empowered to contribute. Self-awareness of your strengths and blind spots is key to sustainable leadership.   Connect with Stephanie Warlick:Website: https://www.5ftview.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniewarlick/Book: Dark and Silent Office – Available on Amazon   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM – Send me a message 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 #ADHDLeadership #MindfulnessMatters #InclusiveLeadership #EntrepreneurMindset #NeurodiversityAtWork #PodcastLife #TranscendentalMeditation

30 Juni 202529min

In this raw and revelatory episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik is joined by Bianca Thomas—licensed mental health counselor, co-founder of Evolve Ventures, and a leading voice in trauma recovery and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Bianca unpacks the silent epidemic of "performative confidence" and walks us through how trauma shapes beliefs like “I’m not good enough.” She shares how CBT can help untangle those deep-rooted narratives and provides actionable tools for self-awareness, emotional safety, and self-empowerment. This is a must-listen if you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, perfectionism, or silently questioned your worth.   About the Guest:Bianca Thomas, LMHC is the co-founder of Evolve Ventures and the Director of Therapy for Evolve Venture Technologies. With deep expertise in CBT and trauma-informed care, she has helped hundreds of clients and thousands of listeners dismantle limiting beliefs and step into real, grounded confidence. Her podcast, Evolve Ventures, is a hub for healing, emotional intelligence, and growth-centered conversations.   Key Takeaways: Many high-functioning people silently battle the belief, “I’m not good enough.” Confidence isn’t performance—it’s embodiment, cultivated through daily inner work. CBT isn’t about “thinking positive” but reframing core beliefs rooted in trauma. Exposure therapy and intentional reflection are key tools in healing. Healing is not about fixing yourself but finding yourself—with compassion.   Connect with Bianca Thomas:Website: www.evolveventurestech.comInstagram: @evolvewithbiancaFacebook, TikTok, and more via her site and social links   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 #MentalHealthAwareness #CBTTherapy #TraumaHealing #ConfidenceBuilding #MindfulnessMatters #EvolveWithBianca #SelfDiscovery #GrowthMindset

30 Juni 202524min

In this heart-centered episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Jody Durand—author of Country Boy Soul—to explore how life's unexpected storms can lead us back to purpose. From losing his father at 20 and running a call center during 9/11, to discovering healing through vulnerability, mentorship, and authentic leadership in sales, Jody shares a raw, real-life blueprint of resilience. His story is a reminder that we don't have to be perfect to live a purposeful life.   About the Guest:Jody Durand is a farmer-turned-sales mentor, author, and advocate for emotional honesty—especially among men. His memoir Country Boy Soul chronicles his transformation through loss, burnout, and rebuilding, offering powerful insights into self-worth, mental health, and fulfillment. Now living on a farm with his wife Laura, Jody mentors' others in leadership and sales while staying grounded in gratitude and truth.   Key Takeaways: "It all looks good from the road" masks the real struggles behind success and survival. Jody’s story reveals how unchecked burnout, grief, and societal expectations can silently erode mental well-being. Sales became his unexpected path to healing—because it was never about selling but helping. The crash that nearly took his life became the moment he chose to reclaim it. Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s what connects us and lifts others up.   Connect with Jody Durand:Find him on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. You can also reach him through his book Country Boy Soul, available online. All contact details are included in the book.   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?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 #healthymindbyavik #wellness #MentalHealthAwareness #PersonalDevelopment #MindfulnessMatters #Resilience #BurnoutRecovery #CountryBoySoul #PodcastLife #GrowthMindset

30 Juni 202530min