There is a lot of misinformation about mindfulness all over social media, some of it is bullshit. And you’re probably doing it wrong and getting frustrated when you don’t experience results. The mindful therapist, Katy Bandy, shares her story and provides clear and simple ways to understand how to do it correctly. I’m excited to share this episode because the next time someone tells you to “just breathe,” you just might not instantly want to punch them in the throat! Katy said, "We can't stop stressors from happening, we can't stop traumas from occurring, and what's happening in society and the bigger picture, we can't control all of that. But the one thing we can control is how we respond to it and how we take care of ourselves through it."

Part II- Purpose highlights Dave Bielik's comeback and how he strives to help others every day at Chatsworth Pavilion, a three-week treatment program located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Dave and I wrap up with exploring what works- how to truly make a difference through fully embracing our life's purpose.  Are you sober-curious? Do you or someone you love struggling with substance use? Whatever your reason to tune in, you'll walk away from it a changed person. 

Dave Bielik is a person in recovery, now established as a community outreach organizer, counselor, and executive chef at Chatsworth Pavilion, a residential treatment home located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Dave tells us about his early start with addiction at the age of five and how he eventually discovered his power, leading to him seeking help for alcoholism. Dave said, “The minute that I admit that I am the problem, a good chunk of that problem disappears.” “It isn’t the outside world that I’m fighting with.”

In this episode, Kat interviews Diana Fuller, a psychologist, coach, and the host of the podcast Watered Grass. Diana takes the opportunity to be on the other side of a microphone, sharing her story of battling with eating disorders and how she embarked on her recovery and her dedication to helping others. “…diet tips like living off of lemon juice & maple syrup…”

HB Mack shares his story growing up in Brooklyn NY, his foundation of knowledge, and what steps he took to self-heal. A powerful story of trauma and insufferable loss. He says, "I heard it clear as day, ‘You are not going to be this person you are today’… ‘a shift is gonna happen’.

We're back with a new Season!  In this episode, Kat returns with a brief share.  Unadulterated truth about conquering her inner demons during a pandemic, how our history affects our everyday life, and what we can do to end the cycle. Lastly, Kat explores the value of sharing your story. The only way we're going to change the system is if we change the stigma. #endthestigma  Go to https://www.unfuckyourhead.org/contact to find out how you can share your story on an upcoming episode!

Sarah walks us through a single day in her life, where she first experiences the ability to navigate through the weight of depressive feelings into empowerment in less than 12 hours. Sarah helps us dissect the specific steps she took to make it happen. Straddling the Gen Z and Millenial generation, Sarah exists in this world with a sincere eagerness to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Her efforts often lead to some practical wisdom. Sarah is a beautiful spirit, full of curiosity, joy, & compassion. This is for everyone, you’ll want to listen!

"…they told me I should just get over it…” Chelsea, Founder & CEO of Endure Life, shares her story of loss, a culture of repression, what saved her, and how she’s dedicating her life to helping others heal: one story, one hike, one t-shirt, one sticker, or one call at a time… You are not alone. We are always available at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 Concerned you or a loved one may be suffering from depression and suicidal ideation? Visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for informative resources and treatment support near you. To learn more, visit the Center for Disease Control & Prevention and the World Health Organization on resources for the treatment of depression and prevention of suicide.

Ingrid Helander, LMFT, was my graduate school internship supervisor. I’ve asked her for an impromptu interview to discuss how we can use factual, evidence-based, useful insights and techniques to navigate the considerable breadth of human distress we are enduring through the current Pandemic. What we discuss touches on our deepest, most human superpower. Listen. What we are covering is more important now than ever before. Ingrid refers to the Vagal System throughout the episode. The major player in this system is the Vagus Nerve, which “is the longest nerve of the autonomic nervous system in the human body.” - Wiki

Rickard gives us a litany of examples of how his process of HUMANIZING people changes their lives. Rickard’s mission is to help create a community of solution-oriented support so that we LIVE in recovery. If you want to learn more about some great alternatives to traditional therapy, you’ll want to listen! To learn more about Rickard’s services, click here.  You can also follow Rickard on Instagram and Facebook.