Beyond the mind with Tia

What if some of the things we believe about the Bible are not what the original texts intended to say?In this thought-provoking episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Dror Ben Ami, author of The Vineyard and The Final Jubilee, whose work challenges long-held interpretations of biblical stories, language, and metaphors.Dror studied Comparative Literature in both the United States and Israel and was deeply influenced by the work of scholar and mystic Maurice Nicoll. His approach invites us to look beyond familiar interpretations and ask deeper questions about what biblical words and stories may have meant in their original context.We explore his intriguing interpretation of Jesus as a plowman and sower rather than simply a carpenter, the deeper meaning of the “Tree of Life,” the role of metaphor in understanding Scripture, the Samaritans, Paul of Tarsus, and the fascinating question of language and biblical meaning.But beyond the religious and historical questions, this conversation is also about something deeply human: What happens when we begin questioning beliefs we have inherited?How do we remain open-minded when a belief is connected to our identity, culture, or faith? And can questioning what we have always been taught actually lead us toward a deeper understanding?Join us for a fascinating conversation about faith, interpretation, curiosity, and the courage to look at familiar stories through a different lens.Connect with Dror: https://www.facebook.com/share/1HA3f56zqb/

What if the thing keeping you stuck isn’t your circumstances, but the identity you’ve built around your past?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Leo Dulay — transformational coach, hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner, and author of You Are Not Your Past.Leo spent 22 years at AT&T before being laid off in 2019. Losing a career that had shaped so much of his identity forced him to confront questions he had never really asked: Who am I without this job? Who am I without the identity I’ve inherited? And what happens when the person you’ve been is no longer the person you want to become?We talk about the emotional patterns that keep people stuck, why knowing you need to change isn't always enough, the role of the subconscious mind, and what it really means to release an old version of yourself.Leo also shares the powerful moment when his wife told him, “Maybe it’s a you problem,” and how those words became a turning point rather than a criticism.Together, we explore identity, reinvention, emotional patterns, the power of our internal stories, and his approach to helping people rewrite the narratives they have carried for years.Because sometimes the next chapter of your life doesn't require you to become someone completely new. It requires you to let go of the version of yourself that no longer fits.Listen in for an honest conversation about letting go, starting again, and discovering who you are beyond your past.Connect with Leo: https://leodulay.com/

What happens when rock bottom isn’t the end—but the beginning of a completely different life?In this powerful episode of Beyond the Mind, Gina sits down with Gerald Lott, Executive Director of Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery and someone who has been in long-term recovery since April 2008.Gerald brings an honest, firsthand perspective on addiction, recovery, stigma, second chances, and the realities of rebuilding a life after substance use. A convicted felon who has walked through addiction himself, Gerald understands the barriers that can keep people from finding help—and he knows what it means to keep going when it feels like there is nowhere else to turn.His own daughter’s struggle with accessing substance-use support became a turning point. Unable to find the resources his family needed, Gerald took a leap of faith in 2018 and committed himself fully to building pathways to recovery for others.Today, his organization provides sober housing, free peer recovery coaching, Narcan training, recovery placement services, and sober social events across four rural Illinois counties. His work also brings hospitals, law enforcement, and community organizations together to create stronger recovery systems.In this conversation, we explore: • What “rock bottom has a basement” really means • Gerald’s journey through addiction and long-term recovery • The barriers that prevent people from getting help • Why stigma can keep people suffering in silence • The power of peer recovery and lived experience • Why connection and belonging can be critical to recovery • The importance of creating multiple pathways into care • Addiction, mental health, and the need to see the whole person • Second chances and rebuilding after a criminal conviction • How personal pain can become a source of purpose • What communities can do differently to respond to substance use disorderThis is not a conversation about recovery from a distance. It’s about lived experience, messy realities, resilience, community, and hope.Because sometimes recovery begins with something as simple as finding one person willing to say, “You’re not beyond help.”Connect :seed of recovery

What happens to your faith when life gives you something you never expected?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, we sit down with Dr. Gerald “Dr. G” Robison, pastor, teacher, author, and speaker, for an honest conversation about faith, adversity, purpose, and finding joy even when life is difficult.Dr. G has pastored churches across three continents, trained Bible teachers in more than 25 countries, and authored numerous books. But one of the most defining experiences of his life was facing tongue cancer—not once, but twice.Through surgeries, uncertainty, and confronting his own mortality, Dr. G discovered perspectives on faith and life that went far beyond simply asking, “Why is this happening to me?”In this conversation, we explore: • How cancer changed Dr. G’s perspective on faith and life • Why humor can be powerful during difficult seasons • The difference between happiness and genuine joy • What it means to be “more than saved for more than heaven” • Why we sometimes struggle to do what we know we “ought” to do • How to navigate seasons when faith feels difficult • Why asking “Why?” can sometimes reveal more about us than we realize • The importance of thinking deeply about faith rather than relying only on feelings • How adversity can shape our understanding of purposeThis is a conversation about what happens beneath the surface of faith when life gets hard—and how difficult experiences can sometimes lead us toward deeper understanding, greater purpose, and genuine joy.Because sometimes, we don’t get the answers to every “why.” But we can still discover meaning in the middle of the questions.https://geraldrobison.com/

What if the life you’ve worked so hard to create isn’t actually the life that’s true to you?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, we sit down with Lynda Leonce, an authenticity and parenting coach, energy healing facilitator, mentor, and workshop host, to explore what happens when we stop living from fear, obligation, expectations, and people-pleasing—and begin listening to our own inner truth.Lynda shares her deeply personal journey from building the life she believed she was supposed to want to recognizing that something was missing. That realization led her into a process of self-discovery, inner work, and ultimately a more authentic way of living.We explore: • What authenticity really means beyond simply “being yourself” • How fear and people-pleasing can influence our biggest life decisions • Why we often follow society’s definition of success without questioning it • How to recognize the quiet signals that something in your life needs to change • When it’s time to let go of something you once believed was meant for you • Why parenting can reveal our own unresolved expectations and emotions • How parents can learn to understand the child in front of them rather than the child they imagined • The importance of learning to trust yourself • Why starting over doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve failed • How to create a life from the inside out rather than from external expectationsThis is a conversation about authenticity, self-discovery, parenting, courage, and the freedom that comes from finally allowing yourself to live from your own truth.Because sometimes, the question isn’t “How do I fix my life?”It’s simply:“Is this life actually mine?”🎙️ This is Beyond the Mind.

What happens when the person who looks like they have it all together is quietly struggling beneath the surface?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, we sit down with Dr. Nneka Oluoha, a Nigerian American physician, novelist, and speaker, to explore the complex relationship between mental health, culture, family, identity, immigration, and resilience.As an internal medicine physician and the author of Live for Me, Nkem, Dr. Oluoha brings together the worlds of medicine and storytelling to shed light on emotional struggles that often remain hidden.Together, we explore:Why successful people can still struggle silently with depression and emotional painHow culture and family expectations influence the way we understand mental healthThe challenges of navigating identity between two culturesThe connection between mental and physical healthWhy depression doesn’t always look the way we expectHow family members can better support someone who is strugglingWhy storytelling can create empathy and challenge mental health stigmaHow immigration and belonging can shape our emotional livesWhat Live for Me, Nkem teaches us about depression, relationships, motherhood, and resilienceThe importance of looking beyond what someone presents to the worldThis is a deeply human conversation about the things we carry quietly, the expectations that shape us, and the power of being truly seen and understood.Because sometimes, the person you think is doing perfectly fine may be the person who most needs someone to ask, “How are you really doing?”🎙️ This is Beyond the Mind.

What happens when your lab results say “normal,” but you know you don’t feel normal?You’re exhausted. You’re dealing with brain fog, bloating, stubborn weight gain, poor sleep, or low energy—and yet, you’re told everything looks fine.In this episode of Beyond the Mind, we sit down with Estela Rojas, a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Navy Nurse Corps Officer, and health coach with more than two decades of clinical and military experience.After years of working with women in traditional healthcare, Estela noticed a recurring pattern: many women were struggling with symptoms that affected their daily lives even when their standard lab results didn’t reveal an obvious problem. This led her toward functional medicine and root-cause health coaching.Together, we explore what it means to look at the bigger picture of health rather than focusing only on individual symptoms.We talk about:Why you can feel unwell even when your labs are considered “normal”The connection between chronic stress, sleep, energy, and overall well-beingWhy sustainable weight management is more complicated than simply eating less and exercising moreThe problems with restrictive diets and quick-fix approachesHow nutrition, movement, sleep, and daily habits influence how we feelThe relationship between physical health, confidence, and self-imageWhy knowing what to do isn’t always enough to create lasting changeHow women can become better advocates for their own healthThe importance of listening to your body and looking at the whole pictureMost importantly, this conversation is about moving away from the idea that women simply need to try harder and toward a more thoughtful understanding of what their bodies may be communicating.Because sometimes the question isn’t just, “Are my labs normal?”It’s also:“What is my body trying to tell me?”Beyond the Mind—where we go deeper into the mind, body, and experiences that shape our lives.Estella https://www.estelarojas.com/apply

What if the challenges you face aren’t the end of your story—but the beginning of a new purpose?In this powerful episode of Beyond the Mind, we sit down with Maxwell Ivey, internationally known as The Blind Blogger, to explore resilience, self-determination, overcoming fear, and finding purpose through adversity.Maxwell shares his extraordinary journey from carnival owner and amusement ride broker to life goals coach, entrepreneur, accessibility advocate, author, speaker, and podcaster. He opens up about navigating vision loss, choosing to share his story publicly, traveling solo, overcoming his fear of singing in public, and learning to keep moving forward even when life doesn’t go according to plan.We also explore Maxwell’s five principles for navigating adversity: inter-dependence, self-determination, determined positivity, honest storytelling, and continuing to move forward.And we take a deeper look at accessibility—not simply as a matter of compliance, but as an opportunity for businesses to improve their reputation, innovation, customer experience, and growth.In this conversation, you’ll discover:Why asking for help can be a form of strengthHow to remain positive without ignoring life’s difficult momentsWhy our challenges don’t have to define our identityHow Maxwell overcame his fear of singing in publicWhy honest storytelling can help others feel less aloneHow inclusive design can benefit everyoneSimple ways businesses and creators can become more accessibleHow to keep moving forward when you don’t know what comes nextBecause sometimes resilience isn’t about knowing exactly where you’re going. It’s simply about having the courage to take the next step.Learn more about Maxwell and his work through The Accessibility Advantage.

What if better wellness isn’t about finding one perfect solution—but about understanding how different pieces of the body and recovery process work together?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Andrew Scheim, an advanced bodywork practitioner, holistic health consultant, integrative wellness educator, trauma resolution practitioner, and developer of integrative wellness protocols.Andrew shares insights from decades of hands-on experience with the human body and explains why his approach to emerging wellness technologies begins with understanding the person—not simply the technology.We explore high-gauss PEMF, molecular hydrogen, Brown’s Gas, nervous system regulation, bodywork, fascia, movement, nutrition, and recovery, while discussing why Andrew believes these approaches should be considered as part of a broader integrative strategy rather than as isolated “magic bullets.”We also discuss his journey from professional blues musician to bodywork practitioner, his unique perspective on rhythm and resonance within the body, and his philosophy that “microbes work 24/7, so chronic illness requires a 24/7 strategy.”In this conversation, you’ll hear about:What high-gauss PEMF is and why field strength, penetration, and placement matterHow molecular hydrogen and Brown’s Gas fit into Andrew’s integrative approachWhy dose, duration, and delivery are important considerationsThe connection between bodywork and emerging wellness technologiesThe role of the nervous system in recoveryWhy searching for a single “magic bullet” may limit how we think about wellnessHow decades of hands-on practice changed Andrew’s understanding of the bodyWhy an integrated approach may require looking at multiple factors simultaneouslyImportant: This conversation is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.Learn more about Andrew and his work: AndrewScheim.com🎧 Welcome to Beyond the Mind—where we go deeper than the surface to explore the stories, ideas, and experiences that shape how we understand ourselves and the world around us.

What happens when the ceremony ends?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, host Tia Monday sits down with Oliver Glozik, founder of Harmonica Retreat in Colombia, for an honest conversation about ayahuasca, healing, transformation, consciousness, and the reality of integrating profound experiences into everyday life.Oliver shares his personal journey into ayahuasca and how that path eventually led him to build a retreat center working alongside facilitators from the Kamsá Biyá Indigenous tradition.But this isn’t a conversation about selling a perfect spiritual experience.Oliver opens up about what people don’t always hear about—the difficult integration process, identity shifts, the possibility that ayahuasca isn’t right for everyone, what can go wrong at retreats, and why genuine transformation requires much more than one powerful ceremony.In this episode, we explore:🌿 Why Oliver was drawn to ayahuasca in the first place🧠 What ayahuasca may reveal about the mind and human experience💭 What happens when life becomes difficult after a profound ceremony🔄 Why transformation doesn’t end when the ceremony ends⚠️ Why ayahuasca isn’t for everyone and what potential risks people should consider🏔️ What makes a responsible and safe retreat🔬 The relationship between Indigenous traditions and modern scientific research💛 The connection between trauma, loneliness, healing, and the search for meaning🌱 Whether plant medicine can genuinely create lasting change✨ What real transformation actually requiresOliver brings a grounded perspective to a subject often surrounded by hype, helping us look beyond the extraordinary experience and toward the slow, sometimes uncomfortable work of creating lasting change.Learn more about Oliver and Harmonica Retreat:Harmonica Retreat🎧 Beyond the Mind with Tia Monday — honest conversations about mental health, healing, personal growth, and the experiences that shape who we are.If you enjoyed this episode, follow, share, and leave a review to help us bring more meaningful conversations to our audience.#BeyondTheMind #OliverGlozik #Ayahuasca #PlantMedicine #Healing #Transformation #MentalHealth #Consciousness #TraumaHealing #PersonalGrowth

What happens when life doesn’t go according to plan?Sometimes we experience grief, burnout, disappointment, or seasons of uncertainty that leave us wondering where God is—and how we’re supposed to keep going.In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Laura Sharp-Waites, author, licensed minister, pastoral counselor, and host of At the Counter with the Baking Pastor.Laura brings a gentle perspective to grief, spiritual exhaustion, rest, and healing. We talk about why healing isn’t always linear, why rest can feel so difficult, and how God’s presence can often be found in the ordinary moments we overlook.In this conversation, we explore: • What a kitchen counter can teach us about faith, hope, and grace • The hidden forms of grief we may carry without recognizing them • Why healing doesn’t always look like progress • How to trust God when life doesn’t turn out as expected • Why we feel guilty for resting • What genuine soul care can look like • How to stop measuring our worth by productivity • Finding God’s presence in everyday moments • What to do when you feel spiritually tired or aloneIf you’re navigating grief, burnout, an unexpected season, or simply feeling weary, this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to carry life’s burdens alone—and healing doesn’t have to happen all at once.Connect with Laura and explore her resources:https://bakingpastor.com/You can also find her podcast, books, soul care resources, and her free Special Edition Soul Pause Journal on her website.

What happens when the struggles that once made you feel like an outsider become the very experiences that give you a voice?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Noah May, a podcast host, writer, and Auburn University journalism graduate who has openly shared his journey with depression, anxiety, loneliness, and self-doubt.Noah began experiencing depression and anxiety at just 13 years old. Through difficult seasons, including moments when he questioned his own worth and struggled with suicidal thoughts, he learned to keep moving forward—and eventually began using his voice to create honest conversations that remind others they are not alone.We talk about growing up with mental health challenges, overcoming feelings of not being good enough, the impact of COVID-19, finding your voice through journalism and podcasting, and how personal struggles can become a source of purpose.Noah also shares what inspired him to create Lethal Venom, Southern Reads, and Music Talks, and what he hopes listeners take away from each platform.Most importantly, this conversation is about perseverance, finding your voice, and refusing to let your mental health struggles define your entire story.🎧 Tune in to Beyond the Mind for an honest and deeply personal conversation with Noah May.

What happens when you stop trying to make yourself smaller and start embracing the brilliance that has been within you all along?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Jane Cooke, the Chief Confidence Catalyst, bestselling author, energy guide, and creator of Empowered Brilliance.Jane shares her personal journey of spending years feeling like she had to shrink herself to fit into corporate environments—and how embracing her own brilliance ultimately helped her earn two promotions within two years.We explore the pressures women, particularly plus-size women, can face around visibility, confidence, body image, and leadership. Jane also explains what it truly means to “remember your brilliance,” why confidence isn’t about becoming someone else, and how women can stop apologizing for taking up space.In this conversation, we discuss: • Why women often make themselves smaller without realizing it • The connection between confidence, visibility, and leadership • How societal expectations can shape the way we see ourselves • Why your body size doesn’t determine your leadership potential • What it means to remember rather than “build” your brilliance • How to move beyond shame and self-doubt • Practical ways to show up more authentically and confidentlyIf you’ve ever questioned whether you’re enough, whether you belong, or whether you’re ready to be seen, this conversation is for you.Connect with Jane:https://link.actionera.marketing/widget/bookings/jane-cooke-calendarListen, share, and remember: You don’t have to become smaller to belong. Your brilliance is already yours.

Why do couples keep having the same arguments even when they genuinely love each other?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Eric Williams, relationship expert, creator of DCIA — Done Carrying It Alone, and developer of the Origin Code framework.Eric brings a unique perspective shaped by his background in Marriage and Family Therapy, five years as a U.S. Army paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne, more than 20 years of marriage, and his experiences as both an “autism dad” and a “girl dad.”We explore what actually causes relational disconnection and why fixing surface-level arguments may not address the real problem underneath.In this conversation, we discuss:The hidden patterns that keep couples stuck in the same conflictsWhy communication problems are often about more than communicationThe difference between building a healthy relationship and restoring a struggling oneWhat the military can teach us about trust, teamwork, and relationshipsWhy successful, high-achieving people can still struggle with connection at homeWhat healthy conflict actually looks likeHow parenting can reshape our understanding of communication and connectionOne practical thing you can do this week to improve your relationshipIf you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the emotional weight of your relationship alone, this conversation offers practical insight and a reminder that you don’t have to carry it alone.Take Eric’s free 60-second relationship quiz to discover your #1 relationship fight pattern:https://whywefight.coastalfamilymedia.com/quizListen, share, and remember: sometimes the first step toward reconnecting is finding the language to understand what’s really happening underneath.

What if a child struggling with reading isn’t struggling because they aren’t smart—but because they haven’t been taught in a way that works for how they learn?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, host Tia Monday sits down with Russell Van Brocklen, known as the Dyslexia Professor, for an important conversation about dyslexia, learning, confidence, and helping children move from frustration to academic success.Russell shares his experience helping dyslexic learners and explains why traditional approaches don’t always work, why multisensory and structured-literacy methods can make a difference, and how parents can begin supporting their child’s confidence at home.Together, we explore:📚 Why so many dyslexic children struggle despite trying hard🧠 Why dyslexic learners are often “specialists, not generalists”💛 How reading difficulties can affect a child’s self-esteem🚫 Breaking the damaging belief of “I’m dumb”🔤 Why multisensory learning can be more effective than generic worksheets🌱 One practical thing parents can do to rebuild a child’s interest in learning🏆 A real example of a student moving from frustration to confidence✨ What “forever confidence” can look like for a dyslexic child👨‍👩‍👧 What every parent should know about their child’s potential🏫 How schools and educators can change the way they approach dyslexiaThis episode is especially valuable for parents, teachers, caregivers, and anyone supporting a child with dyslexia.If your child is struggling with reading, remember: the struggle doesn’t define their intelligence, their potential, or their future.Get Russell’s free guide:3 Reasons Your Child’s Dyslexic Education Isn’t Working🎧 Beyond the Mind with Tia Monday — honest conversations about mental health, healing, personal growth, education, and the experiences that shape who we are.If you found this conversation helpful, follow, share, and leave a review so this message can reach more families.#BeyondTheMind #RussellVanBrocklen #Dyslexia #DyslexicKids #DyslexiaAwareness #Education #LearningDisabilities #Parenting #ChildConfidence #StructuredLiteracy #ReadingDifficulties #TiaMonday

What if understanding the hidden patterns behind human behavior could help us make better decisions, improve ourselves, and navigate our relationships more effectively?In this episode, I’m joined by Jim Marshall, a Human Development Engineer, polymathic intellectual, researcher, and the creator of Septemics—a practical philosophic system designed to help people better understand human phenomena and personal development.Jim has devoted more than 50,000 hours to the study and practice of human potential and has spent over 40 years working with people through his research, training, and professional practice.We discuss: • What Septemics is and how Jim discovered it • How Septemics differs from conventional approaches to human development • Why understanding human behavior matters • How Septemics can be applied to personal growth and everyday life • How the system can help us understand family, friends, colleagues, and business relationships • One of the scales within Septemics and how it can be applied • Jim’s insights from decades of studying human potentialIf you’re interested in human behavior, personal development, psychology, philosophy, and understanding yourself and others, this conversation offers plenty to think about.Learn more about Jim Marshall and Septemics: Septemics.com

What does foreign aid actually look like once you move beyond the headlines?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Clifford Brown, a former USAID legal advisor and senior manager who spent 27 years working in international development across Latin America, Central Asia, and Africa.After leaving a successful career as a commercial lawyer, Clifford embarked on a remarkable journey that took him through countries including Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Colombia, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.Drawing from his experiences and his book, Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance, Clifford gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of international development—including its successes, failures, bureaucracy, political challenges, and human consequences.In this conversation, we explore:What USAID actually does and what foreign aid is designed to accomplishWhether foreign aid truly creates lasting changeThe challenges of working amid political instability, corruption, and military coupsBride kidnapping and Clifford’s experiences in KyrgyzstanHis wife’s abduction and how it changed his perspectiveThe war on drugs and Plan ColombiaHow foreign aid can help create industries and economic opportunitiesDemocracy, governance, and accountabilityThe complex relationship between foreign assistance and religionHuman trafficking and vulnerable communitiesWhat USAID got right—and what it got wrongThe consequences of dismantling USAIDWhy foreign aid matters to Americans and the wider worldWhat the future of international development should look likeThis is a conversation about much more than government programs or international policy. It’s about people, communities, politics, resilience, and the difficult question of how nations can help one another without creating new problems in the process.Learn more about Clifford and his work:https://cliffordHbrown.comRead Clifford’s Substack:https://cliffordbrown.substack.comIf you’ve ever wondered whether foreign aid actually works—and what happens behind the scenes when countries try to create change across borders—this episode is for you.

What if healing doesn’t mean forgetting what we’ve lost, but learning how to carry it differently?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, host Tia Monday sits down with award-winning author and storyteller Holly B. Gutwillinger for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, second chances, creativity, and the extraordinary bond between humans and animals.Holly is the author of North of Broken & Furever Home, a dual-narrative story that explores the emotional journey of both humans and rescue dogs as they navigate loss, healing, and the possibility of beginning again.Holly also hosts Ramblings From the Little Shed, a podcast exploring the ways animals influence and inspire creative lives.In this conversation, Holly shares insights into:✨ How grief can change us and what healing can look like🐾 The emotional and healing power of animals📖 The inspiration behind North of Broken & Furever Home💛 What rescue animals can teach us about trust and second chances🌱 Reinvention, resilience, and beginning again✍️ How storytelling and creativity can help us process difficult experiences🎙️ The inspiration behind Ramblings From the Little Shed❤️ Finding meaning and purpose through life’s difficult chaptersThis is a beautiful conversation about loss, love, resilience, and the unexpected ways we find our way back to ourselves.Connect with Holly:Ramblings From the Little ShedIf this conversation resonates with you, don’t forget to like, subscribe, comment, and share this episode with someone who may need to hear it.🎧 Beyond the Mind with Tia Monday — honest conversations about mental health, healing, personal growth, and the experiences that shape who we are.#BeyondTheMind #HollyGutwillinger #TiaMonday #GriefAndHealing #RescueDogs #AnimalHealing #SecondChances #MentalHealth #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #Storytelling #Resilience

What happens when a man is successful in his career and family life, but no longer feels like himself when he looks in the mirror?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Brian Parana, a health and lifestyle coach with more than 20 years of experience helping busy, high-performing men over 40 lose fat, improve their health markers, and regain their energy without turning fitness into a second job.Brian and I talk about why successful men often struggle with weight gain and consistency—even when they already know what they should be doing.We explore the importance of strength training, protein-first nutrition, daily movement, sleep, stress management, and accountability, and how these habits can fit into a demanding career, family life, travel, and leadership responsibilities.We also discuss:Why men’s health often starts changing after 40The connection between health and leadershipHow to improve consistency when life gets chaoticWhy extreme diets and “all-or-nothing” routines don’t work long-termWhat to prioritize if you only have 30 minutes a dayHow blood-work markers can be a warning sign that your lifestyle needs attentionHow successful men can build discipline without burnoutWhy taking care of your body isn’t just about looking better—it’s about becoming a better husband, father, and leaderBrian brings more than two decades of experience coaching real people, and his message is simple: your health shouldn’t require you to put your life on hold.If you’re a busy professional, entrepreneur, leader, or dad who knows you need to take better care of yourself but struggles to make it sustainable, this conversation is for you.🎧 Listen to the full episode of Beyond the Mind and discover how small, consistent changes can help you feel like yourself again.Learn more about Brian’s 100-day coaching program, The Call To Rise:https://thecalltorise.com/

Sometimes…the simplest things…can make the biggest difference.A handful of worms.A jar of sprouts.And…a good laugh.What if living a healthier, more joyful life doesn’t always have to be complicated?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Cathy Nesbitt, a Health and Wellness Advocate, environmental innovator, speaker, and founder of Cathy’s Crawly Composters, Cathy’s Sprouters, and Cathy’s Laughter Club.Cathy has spent years showing people how simple, natural solutions can make a difference—not only for our environment, but also for our health and wellbeing.We talk about vermicomposting and the surprising role worms can play in food waste, healthy soil, and food security. Cathy also introduces us to sprouts as a simple way to grow nutrient-rich food at home, school, or work.But our conversation goes beyond sustainability and nutrition.Cathy shares why laughter has become such an important part of her own wellness journey, how laughter yoga can help reduce stress and support wellbeing, and why she believes we should make daily joy a priority rather than something we wait for.We explore the connection between worms, sprouts, laughter, health, sustainability, and self-care—and how small changes can help us create a healthier relationship with ourselves and the world around us.Because sometimes…wellness isn’t about doing more.It’s about rediscovering the simple things that make us feel alive.🎧 Tune in to Beyond the Mind and discover why Cathy believes laughter, sustainability, and simple everyday choices can help us live a more joyful life.Connect with Cathy Nesbitt https://www.cathysclub.com/

Sometimes…being the “good child” means…staying quiet.Avoiding conflict.Putting everyone else first.And somewhere along the way, you can become so good at being agreeable that you forget to ask yourself what you actually want.In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Bradley L. Gabbert, author of The Agreeable Child: A Yogic Journey from Tragedy to Triumph, for a deeply personal conversation about childhood trauma, people-pleasing, emotional healing, and finding your voice later in life.Bradley shares the extraordinary story of surviving a childhood accident that left him in a coma and forced him to relearn how to walk and speak—and how the experiences that followed shaped the person he became.We explore what it means to grow up believing that keeping the peace is safer than speaking up, how people-pleasing can follow us into relationships and adulthood, and the difference between being genuinely kind and losing yourself to make others comfortable.Bradley also opens up about the unexpected role of breathwork, yoga, meditation, and stillness in helping him reconnect with emotions he had carried for decades.This is a conversation about the parts of ourselves we learn to silence in order to survive—and what can happen when we finally give ourselves permission to speak.Because…finding your voice isn’t about becoming louder.It’s about finally becoming more fully yourself.Connect with Bradley gabbert https://theagreeablechild.com/

Sometimes…rock bottom isn’t the end.Sometimes…there’s another level beneath it.And sometimes, hitting that place becomes the moment when everything has to change.In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Timothy Moylan, author of Rock Bottom Has a Basement, for a raw and honest conversation about addiction, alcoholism, homelessness, legal trouble, incarceration, faith, family, and the long road back to a meaningful life.Timothy opens up about the choices and circumstances that took him to some of the darkest moments of his life—including a near-fatal heart failure—and the turning point that forced him to confront his addiction and take responsibility for where his life was heading.Together, we explore what recovery really looks like beyond simply getting sober, the role of faith and accountability, rebuilding trust with family, and finding the courage to start again when you feel like you’ve lost everything.We also talk about second chances, personal responsibility, and how the lessons Timothy learned through recovery continue to shape the way he lives, works, and shows up for the people around him.Whether you or someone you love has struggled with addiction, or you’ve ever wondered whether a person can truly rebuild their life after losing everything, this conversation offers honesty, hope, and a powerful reminder:Your lowest point does not have to be your final chapter. Connect with Timothy Moylan http://amazon.com/author/rockbottom_76Guest Introduction: Timothy Moylan & Rock Bottom Has a BasementThe Beginning of the Addiction JourneyWhen Addiction Takes ControlFrom Legal Trouble to Homelessness & PrisonHitting Rock Bottom—and Discovering There Was More Beneath ItThe Turning Point: Choosing RecoveryFaith, Accountability & Taking ResponsibilityRebuilding Trust With FamilySurviving a Near-Fatal Heart FailureWhat Recovery Really Looks LikeRebuilding Life, Work & PurposeSecond Chances: What Timothy Wants Others to KnowFinal Reflection: Your Story Doesn’t End at Rock Bottom

Sometimes…faith doesn’t disappear…it gets buried beneath…pain.shame.and the pressure to appear okay.What happens when the person you believe you’re supposed to be becomes harder to maintain than simply being honest about who you are?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I’m joined by Jeff Dalton, author, poet, and speaker, for a deeply honest conversation about faith, mental health, healing, and finding your way back to an authentic relationship with Jesus.Jeff shares his personal journey through depression, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, suicidal episodes, church rejection, divorce, financial hardship, and a season when he questioned—and ultimately lost—his faith.Together, we explore the difference between religious performance and genuine connection with Jesus, the shame that can surround mental illness, and why struggling with your mental health doesn’t mean you have weak faith.We also talk about what it means to bring our brokenness into the light, how honest conversations with Jesus can transform the way we understand healing, and why sometimes the most powerful step in faith is simply being real.Whether you’ve struggled with your faith, battled shame or mental health challenges, felt rejected by religious communities, or simply wondered whether Jesus can meet you in the middle of your mess, this conversation offers a message of hope, honesty, and grace.Because…you don’t have to hide your brokenness to be worthy of healing. Connect with Jeff https://a.co/d/08VZox7l

Pressure…reveals…what we’re really made of.Because when everything goes according to plan, leadership can feel easy.But when mistakes happen…when the stakes are high…and there’s no perfect answer…that’s when leadership is truly tested.In this episode of Beyond the Mind, Silvia Rizzo shares powerful insights from her experience across elite sport and business, exploring what pressure reveals about the way we lead, make decisions, and respond when things don’t go as expected.Together, we explore leadership, high performance, resilience, decision-making, accountability, adaptability, and the difficult balance between staying in control and knowing when to adjust.We talk about how leaders can handle mistakes without losing credibility, how incomplete information can shape critical decisions, and why some people become stronger through pressure while others become more rigid.Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, high performer, or simply someone learning how to navigate pressure more effectively, this conversation offers a deeper look at what it really means to perform when it matters most.Because…pressure doesn’t create the leader.It reveals the leader.Connect with https://www.hofmarabuntablog.com/mindset-leadership-strategic-behaviorChaptersGuest Introduction: Silvia Rizzo and High-Performance Leadership3 minLeadership Under Pressure: What High-Stakes Environments Reveal5 minMaking Decisions When There’s No Perfect Answer5 minHandling Mistakes Without Losing Credibility4 minResilience, Responsibility & Learning From Failure5 minControl vs. Adaptability: Knowing When to Adjust5 minLessons From Elite Sport and Business4 minWhat Really Defines High Performance?4 min

What does it really mean to be a great leader?In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Mind, host Tia Monday sits down with Olaolu Ogunyemi—U.S. Marine Corps Officer, award-winning author, leadership mentor, and founder of Parent-Child-Connect—to explore a leadership philosophy that challenges everything we think we know about success.Drawing from his military experience, faith, and personal journey, Olaolu shares why true leadership begins with humility, service, and putting others first. Together, they discuss emotional resilience, trust, parenting, personal growth, and how anyone can become a more effective leader in everyday life.Whether you’re leading a team, raising a family, or simply striving to become a better version of yourself, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and lasting inspiration.In this episode, you’ll discover:The meaning behind the “Lead Last” philosophyWhy servant leadership creates lasting impactBuilding trust through humility and integrityLeadership lessons from the U.S. Marine CorpsParenting with purpose and intentionDeveloping emotional resilience in everyday life📚 Free Gift: Olaolu is offering listeners a free digital copy of his book, Lead Last: Twenty-One Counterintuitive Principles for Becoming an Effective Leader.Thank you for watching! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share with someone who could benefit from this conversation.#BeyondTheMind #TiaMonday #OlaoluOgunyemi #LeadLast #Leadership #ServantLeadership #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness #EmotionalResilience #Parenting #SuccessMindset

What if the thoughts running through your mind aren’t who you really are?In this episode of Beyond the Mind Podcast, Tia Monday sits down with executive coach, entrepreneur, and The Game of Ten® creator, Steve Barton, for a thought-provoking conversation about awareness, identity, emotional resilience, and personal growth.Drawing from more than four decades of leadership and coaching experience, Steve explains why so many people become trapped by their thoughts and emotions—and how learning to observe them, rather than identify with them, can transform every area of life.Together, they explore the power of forgiveness, healing from past experiences, building emotional awareness, and making intentional choices that lead to greater peace, clarity, and fulfillment.Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, leading others, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, this conversation offers practical wisdom that will inspire you to live with greater purpose and authenticity.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why you are more than your thoughts and emotionsThe life-changing principles behind The Game of Ten®How awareness creates lasting personal transformationThe role of forgiveness in emotional healingPractical ways to live with greater intention, resilience, and purposeConnect with Steve Barton:https://stevebartoncoaching.comIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs this conversation today.

What if your brain could be trained just like your body?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, host Tia sits down with Arnold Beekes, visionary behind Brain Athletes, to explore how brain fitness can transform the way we think, feel, and live.Arnold shares why so many people remain stuck in survival mode, the science behind neuroplasticity, and how training your brain can improve mental wellness, resilience, leadership, and overall performance.In this conversation, you’ll discover:​ What brain fitness really means​ Why change feels so difficult​ The importance of neuroplasticity​ How to improve mental wellness​ The hidden causes of mental struggles​ How to unlock your full human potential​ Why Brain Athletes are the leaders of the futureIf you’re interested in personal growth, leadership, neuroscience, or mental well-being, this episode is for you.Connect with Arnold Beekes:🌐 https://www.brainathletes.club/🎙️ Subscribe to Beyond the Mind for more inspiring conversations with thought leaders, entrepreneurs, authors, and changemakers exploring the power of the human mind.#BeyondTheMind #ArnoldBeekes #BrainFitness #MentalWellness #Neuroplasticity #Leadership #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #BrainHealth #Podcast

Not every day goes according to plan—and sometimes the moments we look forward to the most don’t happen the way we imagined.In today’s solo episode of Beyond the Mind, I open up about dealing with unexpected disappointment and the emotions that come with missed opportunities. Instead of letting one setback define the day, I explore how we can process frustration, show ourselves grace, and keep moving forward with hope.If you’ve ever felt discouraged because things didn’t go your way, this episode is a reminder that one difficult moment doesn’t determine your future. Growth often begins when we choose to keep going despite disappointment.Join me as we talk about resilience, self-compassion, and why every setback can become the beginning of a new chapter.If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to follow, rate, and share Beyond the Mind. Your support helps these conversations reach more people who may need them today.

What happens when boys are taught to hide their emotions instead of understanding them?In this episode of Beyond the Mind, I sit down with Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, psychologist, author, and therapist with nearly 50 years of experience helping children, adults, and families heal from emotional wounds.Together, we explore how the messages boys receive from childhood shape the men they become—and why emotional suppression can have lasting effects on relationships, mental health, and society as a whole.Dr. Gloria shares powerful insights into emotional development, fatherhood, vulnerability, and how we can raise boys who grow into emotionally healthy, compassionate men.Whether you’re a parent, educator, partner, or simply someone interested in mental health, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the importance of emotional awareness and authentic connection.Connect with Dr.Glorria https://www.drvanderhorst.com/ Her books :GLORRIA’S BOOK

How many times have you answered, “I’m fine,” even when you weren’t?In the very first episode of Beyond the Mind, we explore the silent emotions many of us carry behind our smiles. Together, we’ll talk about why we hide our struggles, the pressure to always appear strong, the impact of social media comparisons, and why being honest with ourselves is often the first step toward healing.This episode is a reminder that you don’t have to pretend, and that it’s okay to acknowledge what you’re truly feeling.Because every mind has a story…and every story deserves to be heard.If this episode speaks to you, follow Beyond the Mind and share it with someone who might need to hear it today.