Choose Love Movement

In this thought-provoking episode, Scarlett Lewis sits down with Andrew Freeman, founder of Coherence Education, an accredited online school for students ages 5–18 that is reimagining education for the AI era.Andrew believes that many traditional schools are still focused on preparing students for jobs and skills that artificial intelligence may soon replace. Instead, he advocates for a revolutionary approach called Inside-Out Education. This model is designed to help children discover who they are, develop emotional intelligence, cultivate creativity, and become confident creators of their own future.Andrew shares why he founded Coherence Education, how the school is empowering students to thrive in a rapidly changing world, and his ambitious vision to impact more than 2 million children by 2030 through a scalable licensing model.Listen now and discover how we can prepare the next generation not just to adapt to the future, but to create it.School Website - https://coherenceeducation.orgSubstack - https://insideout.coherenceeducation.org

Scarlett Lewis’s guest is Gabrielle Diecidue, executive director of the Diecidue Family Foundation and founder of the National Violence Prevention Hotline (NVPH). This podcast was recorded on June 10, the anniversary of Gabrielle's best friend, Bella Thallas, being murdered by a man who opened fire over a dispute about a dog.Gabrielle shares how the hotline provides crisis counseling to people on the pathway to violence, with counselors conducting 2-3 hour calls to help de-escalate situations and provide the support that callers often say they've never heard before. The hotline has prevented dozens of potential acts of violence, including a mass shooting at a group home and another at a hospital, with calls ranging from teenagers planning school attacks to adults threatening mass shootings. https://violencepreventionhotline.org/

Healing Starts Here: Kevin Carolan on Resilience, Prevention & Hope In this episode, Scarlett sits down with Kevin Carolan, Interim Executive Director of Connecticut Parent Connection in Newtown, Connecticut, for a powerful conversation about turning pain into purpose. Kevin’s connection to this work is deeply personal—his family’s own tragedy inspired his mother, Dorrie Carolan, to found Connecticut Parent Connection to support families navigating addiction, grief, isolation, and life’s most difficult challenges.What began from heartbreak became a mission rooted in hope, education, prevention, and meaningful support for children, adults, and families across Connecticut. Today, Kevin continues that legacy by helping communities better understand addiction, mental health, recovery, and the essential role human connection plays in healing.Together, Scarlett and Kevin explore resilience, prevention, the challenges facing young people today, and how compassion, understanding, and community can help us create healthier, more connected lives.Listen to this podcast for an inspiring conversation about healing, hope, and the power of supporting one another.https://www.ctparentconnection.org/

Scarlett welcomes Dr. Michael Carter, a board-certified physician with more than 35 years of experience across multiple disciplines. As a Functional and Integrative Medicine practitioner, he is one of only 300 experts focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes that interfere with the body’s natural ability to prevent and reverse disease. Blending natural supplementation, advanced technology, personalized nutrition, targeted therapies, and strategic exercise protocols, Dr. Carter supports detoxification, regeneration, hormonal balance, brain health, and long-term vitality.Together, Scarlett and Dr. Carter share inspirational details of their own lives while exploring how Dr. Carter's work connects longevity, cognitive wellness, and whole-person healing while aligning medical science with the deeper goal of living a vibrant, purposeful, and meaningful life.Takeaways: Debunking myths about agingThe connection between sleep and keeping our kids safeThe truth about cholesterolHow to internally slow down the aging processGratitude leads to happiness and a healthier lifeWebsite: https://prodrome.com/pages/practitioners/michael-carter?srsltid=AfmBOorr6EDQG95Pqr1MR9uIIMQiaAIaoomWulwP-0lNkHbXw4XVnS41

Scarlett’s guest is Kelli Sallee, a powerful and compassionate speaker who has spent more than a decade working with Drive Sober of Greater Lafayette, helping prevent impaired driving through education and honest conversations with students. Kelli’s work is deeply personal. She shares the story of her best friend, Tiffany “TK” Krammes, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver, an experience that forever changed Kelli’s life and became the reason she chose to turn pain into purpose.Through storytelling and heartfelt dialogue, Kelli doesn’t speak to shock, she speaks to connection. Her message is unforgettable: “Don’t make short decisions that will have long-term consequences. Your choices matter.” That message aligns powerfully with what we teach at Choose Love: there is always a Choice Moment which is a space between what happens and what we do next. That is when we can decide to choose courage, responsibility, and love.Kelli is living proof that one person’s voice, one brave conversation, and one loving intervention can change outcomes and even save lives. A real-life story that will change the way you think about “just one drink” and “it’ll be fine.” Learn how to use the Choice Moment to interrupt risky decisions before they become irreversible. If you care about teens, safety, prevention, or turning tragedy into purpose, this episode is worth your time. Kelli is living proof that one person’s courage can create a ripple effect of protection, awareness, and life-saving change.DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE THAT WILL BENEFIT FROM HEARING THIS. PLEASE SHARE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS! LET'S GET THE WORD OUT AND SAVE LIVES!www.loplifecoach.net

In this episode, Scarlett speaks with Randy Brown, author of The Inside Story of Columbine: Lies, Coverups, Ballistics, Lessons, whose connection to the Columbine tragedy is deeply personal—his sons were at the school on April 20, 1999, and his family reported Eric Harris to authorities two years before the shooting. Randy shares decades of research and lived experience to challenge widely accepted narratives, examine systemic failures and coverups, and explore the deeper cultural roots of school violence. This important conversation invites listeners to keep an open heart and mind as we seek truth, honor victims, support survivors, and consider what it will truly take to prevent future tragedies.To purchase Randy’s book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001K7YO9K

Scarlett’s guest is Mark Hulsewe—a filmmaker, speaker, and advocate who is working to change the way we think about bullying, violence, and school safety. Drawing from his own lived experience as a victim of bullying, Mark focuses on proactive, human-centered solutions. He speaks about leadership, empathy, and practical framework like the HERO Protocol, which aims to rewire how schools and communities respond to pain—before it turns into harm.Mark is the creator of the short film In Plain Sight, which has been recognized at film festivals for its powerful storytelling and its unflinching look at the human cost of bullying. He is also a TEDx speaker, known for his talk “The Great Rescue: Ending School Shootings,” where he explores how violence is often the tragic downstream effect of unresolved pain, exclusion, and bullying—and how prevention is possible.

Scarlett’s guest is Jessica Dibb, author of Breathworks and Psychotherapy: Clinical Applications for Healing and Transformation. Scarlett and Jessica discuss the practice of breathing and its importance in the process of choosing love. When we consciously breathe, we can have a physiological experience of feeling love. Jessica offers compelling reasons to integrate the power of breathwork with psychotherapy and other healing and wellness practices. Each full breath we take has a beneficial impact and it only takes 7 minutes a day to practice breathwork. If we take that full breath consciously, with awareness, the benefits are exponentially increased. Conscious breathing is a powerful mechanism for transforming our physiological, emotional, and brain states, and is the fastest way to cultivate integrated presence. To purchase Jessica's book: https://a.co/d/2WVXl7G

A Conversation of HealingIn this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Scarlett’s guest is former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy. They explore the root causes of our nation’s growing crisis of disconnection - and the courageous path toward a safer and more peaceful world. Drawing from his ‘Partner Prescription’, Dr. Murthy calls on Americans to ‘choose love over fear’ and to rebuild lives and communities grounded in connection, compassion, and purpose. Dr. Vivek Murthy served as the 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States. As Vice Admiral of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, he commanded a uniformed service of 6,000 public health officers.Dr. Murthy’s work has widened the lens through which we understand forces that shape our health and well-being. During his two terms as Surgeon General, his initiatives shaped national and international conversations, garnered global media coverage, and compelled change across business and non-profit organizations. He has drawn attention to critical, underappreciated health issues including the epidemic of loneliness, the impact of social media on youth mental health, parental mental health and well-being, the youth mental health crisis, and health worker burnout.In 2020, Dr. Murthy published the New York Times best-seller Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World. His 2025 “Parting Prescription to America” laid out a vision for rebuilding community as the key to health, happiness, and fulfillment.

Scarlett’s guest is Dr. Nina Cerfolio, a distinguished psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, researcher, and humanitarian. Dr. Cerfolio has written extensively on the psychological roots of violence, including school shootings, and is recognized for her deep work on trauma, healing, and resilience. Her groundbreaking research offers vital insights into how untreated suffering, alienation, and disconnection can manifest in violent behavior—and more importantly, how empathy, community, and social-emotional growth can help us prevent tragedy and build peace.Scarlett and Dr. Cerfolio discuss the epidemic of gun violence in our country, terrorism, and mass shootings, along with award-winning, cutting edge psychiatric research on domestic mass shooters and the high incidence of undiagnosed, untreated brain illness.Visit Dr. Cerfolio’s website for more information: https://ninacerfoliomd.com/Link to purchase Dr. Cerfolio’s book: "Psychoanalytic and Spiritual Perspectives on Terrorism: Desire for Destruction." . https://www.amazon.com/Psychoanalytic-Spiritual-Perspectives-Terrorism-Destruction/dp/103263345X

JoAnn Mitchell is an education reform leader and the Founder & CEO of Mission Achievement and Success (MAS) Charter Schools — an organization whose mission is to prepare underserved students to be successful in college and in life by providing a rigorous college preparatory program in a safe and engaging learning environment. Their results are unprecedented with a 100 percent graduation rate!  JoAnn possesses over 30 years of education leadership and education reform experience, including as a school founder, district administrator, school psychologist, and classroom teacher. She has a Masters, she was an Educational Specialist  in School Psychology and her Certificate of Advanced Study in School Administration.Recognized by SUCCESS magazine as a 2022 Woman of Influence, JoAnn has been the focus of numerous news and feature articles for her pioneering efforts and extraordinary results. JoAnn was one of the very first early adopters of the Choose Love curriculum over 10 years ago, and has been Choosing Love in her school since the day we released the curriculum in 2014. They are now a certified Choose Love school which means they prioritize character and social emotional development.

Scarlett’s guest is James Kimmel, Jr., author of "The Science of Revenge." James has joined Choose Love as one of our newest advisors. His groundbreaking research has uncovered something that could revolutionize how we understand and address conflict in our schools and communities—that revenge operates as a powerful addiction in the human brain, one that most people don't even recognize they have.This discovery has profound implications for educators, parents, and anyone working to create safer, more compassionate environments for children. James's work is helping us understand why traditional approaches to discipline and conflict resolution often fail, and more importantly, it's giving us new tools to break cycles of retaliation before they escalate.As we integrate these insights into Choose Love programming, we're not just teaching students to manage their emotions—we're helping them understand and overcome one of the most destructive patterns in human behavior. James's research is showing us that when we address revenge addiction at its root, we can create lasting change that transforms not just individuals, but entire communities.

Learn why Roman’s program is more effective than the DARE program and how you can bring it to your school and community!Scarlett’s guest is Roman Gabriel, president of the Sold Out Youth Foundation, which has a mission of equipping the next generation for success without drugs and alcohol. Roman shares his background as the son of an NFL quarterback and discusses his journey to become a successful speaker, author, and host. Scarlett and Roman discuss drug education programs in schools, particularly comparing Sold Out Youth Foundation's online approach with D.A.R.E. and highlighting their five-step curriculum and success in reaching students at critical agesHere’s how this program changes lives:Focusing on character education programs and the importance of teaching life skills and character traits in schools, particularly in the context of the ongoing Fentanyl and Opioid crisis.Roman’s ground-breaking 365 Online interactive public, private, and home school programs using sports, entertainment, and education through school internet technology to deliver a 100% student alcohol /drug abstinence accountable pledge.Students learn life skills training, and overall student fitness, health, and wellness initiatives. All interactive and available the way students like to be entertained and learn, through their phones visually. Share this podcast with family and friends!

Scarlett’s guest is Jordan Arogeti, CEO and Co-Founder of SupportNow; a free easy to use family support platform that provides clear direction to anyone inclined to offer funds, food, or time and energy. Additionally, they’ve built the largest database of active, sortable medical grants on the Internet. SupportNow has facilitated over $4M in donations for families across all fifty states. Jordan Arogeti wants to change how supporters show up for friends and families in tough times. She’s doing just that as the CEO and Co-Founder of SupportNow; a free, easy to use family support platform that provides clear direction to anyone inclined to offer funds, food, or time and energy. Additionally, they’ve built the largest database of active, sortable medical grants on the Internet. SupportNow has facilitated over $4M in donations for families across all fifty states. https://www.supportnow.org/Connect- Grants PlatformTime with AdvocacyAbby

Scarlett’s guest is Dr. Heather Holmes, a forensic psychologist, who conducts psychological evaluations for state and federal courts. Dr. Holmes worked on Nikolas Cruz’ case (The Parkland Shooter) and she evaluated Cruz to provide insight into his mental health, behavior, and background. Cruz murdered fourteen students and three educators on that high school campus on February 14, 2018. They discuss the question ‘how did we fail you?’ to see how we can prevent further school shootings and protect our children. 

Scarlett and David Melville discuss his book, The 5 Things, and its focus on expressing love and personal growth. David shares personal stories about his aunt Isa's late-life transformation and his approach to managing negative thoughts. They explore various concepts including thought control, gratitude, and the importance of choosing love in challenging situations, with David emphasizing the impact of mindset changes and Scarlett sharing her experiences with forgiveness and teaching others about love. They encourage listeners to engage with their work and spread positive messages of love and kindness. Living life with no regret isn’t about being perfect or never making mistakes — it’s about living intentionally, learning deeply, and loving fully.Listen to this podcast to learn: the importance of building connectionspracticing gratitudethe value of being presentCheck out David's website: https://sharing5things.com/Listen to this special podcast and share with your family and friends!

Scarlett and Meg discussed Meg's book, Take A Breather, Overachiever: A Guide to Setting Boundaries without Losing Your Mind, which explores boundaries and people-pleasing tendencies, sharing personal experiences and insights about setting healthy limits. Their conversation includes strategies for managing difficult situations and maintaining boundaries, including Meg's offer of her book as a free resource to help others improve their personal boundaries and self-worth.Scarlett and Meg explore various life challenges including:Work-life balance and productivityThe importance of self-careHow boundaries can help reduce anxiety and create a more fulfilling life.Share this podcast with family and friends to spread this message of love and healing.

Scarlett’s guest is Dr. Lori Leyden, a humanitarian and trauma healing expert known for her work with genocide survivors and school shooting victims, who introduced her Grace Process healing methodology. Through personal stories and examples from Rwanda and Newtown, Dr. Leyden and Scarlett discuss the importance of trauma healing, community support, and teaching these skills to the next generation through the Choose Love Movement's curriculum. Their conversation highlights the transformative power of empathy, connection, and presence in healing from trauma. Share this podcast with family and friends  to spread this message of love and healing.

Scarlett Lewis and her mom, Maureen, are back at the Blue Colony Diner in Newtown, CT discussing forgiveness. Trauma is a universal part of the human experience, and helping kids develop the emotional intelligence to face their pain with curiosity rather than shame or avoidance could be life-changing. When children (and adults) learn to explore their pain, they can transform it into self-awareness, resilience, and even compassion for others. Forgiveness makes you stronger because when you forgive you take your power back! 

In this raw and soul-stirring episode of the ChooSELove Podcast, Scarlett Lewis sits down with Azim Khamisa, a father whose 20-year-old son, Tariq, was senselessly murdered by a 14-year-old gang member. In a moment when most would be consumed by rage, Azim was overcome by something else—a mystical experience that delivered him straight into forgiveness.This conversation dives deep into:The spiritual encounter Azim had just hours after his son’s deathWhy he chose forgiveness over vengeance—and how it healed himHow he now partners with the grandfather of his son’s killer to save other childrenThe power of compassion in action to end cycles of violenceAzim’s story will shake you, then awaken you. This is forgiveness not as a soft virtue—but as a radical, world-changing force.You don’t want to miss this. It's not just about tragedy—it's about transformation.

What do you think of the 'Let Them' theory? Last Mother’s Day, Scarlett Lewis and her mom went to the Blue Colony Diner to have a mother/daughter discussion about the 'Let Them Theory', people who lie, and how to choose love in difficult relationships. Listen to this special podcast today!

Scarlett and John Winstanley discuss the importance of addressing societal issues and promoting hope and healing. John, an advisor, speaker, and CEO of Fort Safety, shares his mission to protect kids and strengthen families from digital threats and toxic cyber behaviors. He also highlights the need for open conversations about difficult topics, especially in today's changing world. John and Scarlett discuss the impact of digital addiction on individuals and families, emphasizing the need for solutions. John shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction and how it led him to create a digital addiction coaching program. John also highlights the challenges of balancing screen time in modern family dynamics and the importance of teaching responsible digital use to children.https://www.fortsafety.comKey Takeaways: Digital safety is a growing threat.Open conversations matter.Modeling healthy technology use.Prevention through education.

Tricia Maciejewski shares her story with Scarlett about her beautiful son, Levi, and what she has learned through tremendous hardship and gut-wrenching loss. We need to teach our children about following the Golden Rule, learning about digital citizenship and prevention education.  Levi’s death was preventable and the 'evil' is not going to stop so we have to prepare and protect ourselves, and our children with information, awareness and education so that we are not left vulnerable to the highly sophisticated and wiley snares of those that are ever present and prey on our children online. Levi's mom, Tricia, wants us to "Live Like Levi" courageously and treat other people the way we want to be treated!https://www.wgal.com/article/shippensburg-sextortion-victim-mother-speaks/64089169

Scarlett’s guests are David and Bonnie Murphy, Alex Jones listeners who did not believe the tragedy at Sandy Hook happened. They met Scarlett when Bonnie was working at one of the first schools to embrace the Choose Love program and Scarlett came in to present to the educators. David and Bonnie did not tell Scarlett that they thought she was a crisis actor for years. Now they sit down and have an unthinkable  conversation about their thought process, the importance of truth and model courage and vulnerability needed to bridge divides and forge friendships across the aisles. Bonnie Lee Murphy is a successful educator of 32 years with Early Childhood, K-8 and Special Education certifications in public and private schools, endorsed in Reading, Health, Language Arts, Social Studies, Gifted and Psychology. A high school drop-out, she is currently a special education preschool teacher, after spending 28 years reversing generational cycles of ACEs and trauma, having her own education advocacy business as an education trainer and advocate including being New Mexico’s first teacher and State Ambassador for Choose Love.David Murphy is a business partner with Core-Visual in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is a professional photographer / videographer / editor and has been working in the creative industry for more than 35 years. David’s hobbies include playing bass guitar, making personal videos on his YouTube channel (covering topics ranging from theology to DIY home improvement projects), and he also writes and performs original standup comedy (occasionally).

Scarlett Lewis’ guest is Lorraine Connell, the founder of Peers Not Fears. Scarlett discusses Lorraine's background in education and teen empowerment, as well as her book and workbook on leadership skills for teens. They also highlight the importance of choosing love over fear and the effectiveness of peer-to-peer groups in middle and high schools, particularly in facilitating trust and friendships. They discuss the upcoming peer-to-peer program in Rochester, New Hampshire  which aims to address feelings of isolation and promote collective growth.Lorraine talks about her journey from being a chemistry teacher to embracing leadership roles. Initially, she struggled with the idea of being an expert in social and emotional learning, feeling that she couldn't lead in advisory roles due to her own lack of skills. However, she eventually transitioned into the work, recognizing the importance of leadership in her role as a mom, teacher, coach, and advisor. She emphasized the need to redefine what leadership means and how it can be stepped into, even by those who feel they lack the necessary skills. https://www.peers-not-fears.com/

Scarlett’s guest is Donna Marston, author of "Healing Without Shame Journal", "Just for Today", "Peeling The Onion" and "Sharing Without Shame". Scarlett and Donna discuss their personal experiences with addiction and recovery, with Donna sharing her role as a certified recovery support worker and her involvement in various organizations related to addiction and recovery. They also discussed the challenges of parenting a child with addiction, the importance of self-care and seeking help for oneself, and the complexities of family relationships and forgiveness. They discuss the need for alternative approaches to drug education, the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in conversations, and advice for parents struggling with children who have addiction issues.Donna Marston is a Certified Recovery Support Worker, author, and parent support coach specializing in supporting families impacted by addiction. She is the founder of Sharing With Out Shame, an organization dedicated to empowering parents and family members by providing workshops, support groups, and coaching to help them navigate their loved one’s addiction with unconditional love, courage and clarity.Through her lived experience as a mother who walked the difficult path of loving a child in active addiction, Donna has developed compassionate, practical approaches to help families reclaim their lives, set healthy boundaries, and shift their mindsets. She is the author of Peeling The Onion, Just For Today, Sharing Without Shame, and Healing Without Shame Journal, offering insight and guidance to those on the journey of acceptance and healing.

Scarlett’s guest is Jeffrey J. Schutz, Founder and Executive Director of The Neurovation Center in Newtown, CT. The Neurovation Center was started by Jeff to “change the way we do mental health.” Scarlett and Jeff discuss the limitations of diagnosing mental health issues, the benefits of neurofeedback therapy, and the potential of neurofeedback in addressing anxiety and depression. Scarlett and Jeffrey agree that It’s important for us to use our suffering as an opportunity for growth and learning. Jeff is the Founder and Executive Director of The Neurovation Center. He has pioneered integrative techniques for assessing and integrating neuroanalysis and neurofeedback into mental healthcare. Jeff is also the CEO of NeuroInnovation Consulting Services, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology, doing research on the integration of neurofeedback into mental healthcare.Jeff’s goal is to bring about change – real, deep and meaningful. Fun and engaging, he finds a way to get to the heart of relational problems and then “unstuckify” the nasty patterns of reactivity, resentment and poor communication that seem to grow faster than weeds in any relationship.https://www.theneurovationcenter.com

The most important thing is the safety and well-being of our children and educators. In this podcast, Dr. Ryan Carlson talks about a revolutionary system for identifying and managing aggressive behavior called critical aggression prevention system or CAPS. He discusses why CAPS is better than the current systems in place such as ‘see something say something’, conflict resolution, active shooter drills and others because it is important to identify and manage aggressive behavior before it escalates into an issue. Utilizing Dr. Carlson‘s military background, the program seeks to engage, diffuse and redirect, aggressive behavior through developing and ongoing relationship, relationships, and trust. In its early phases, behavior issues can be seen as opportunities for connection. This is an engaging and productive conversation about an issue that continues to plague not only our schools, but every aspect of our lives. We know that hurt people hurt people, and there is a way to be part of the solution. We need to address rising aggression. A global study found 31% of Gen Z respondents believe that violence to persons or to property can be an appropriate way to bring about change. And 55% of 18-34-year-olds said they approve of violence, property damage or misinformation as tools for change. (2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer)https://www.aggressionmanagement.com/

Scarlett has partnered with David Romanelli to create a program called "Peaceful Parents" aimed at bringing more peace into the lives of parents. The program includes advice from various experts in short, digestible segments over 21 days. The program was inspired by the US Surgeon General's advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents, which revealed that 33% of parents are experiencing high levels of stress and 48% feel overwhelmed most days. The program is designed to help parents move beyond stress and fear and choose love. For more information: https://peacefulparents.life/ As a bestselling author, wellness innovator and entrepreneur, David Romanelli brings a unique, seasoned and entertaining approach to today’s pressing challenges of work-life balance, stress, information overload and the overall desire to live a happier, healthier life.He fuses ancient wellness practices with modern passions that give people accessible tools to overcome stress, focus their mind and improve their relationships at work and home.David has spoken at Nationwide, Prudential, PWC, GRID Stockholm, Cigna Insurance, Guardian Insurance, American Express, and Veuve Clicquot among many others.His works has been featured in The New York Times, Newsweek, O Magazine, Newsweek, Food + Wine, and Wall Street Journal.

Scarlett’s guest is Gia Lacqua, a widely-regarded trauma-informed empowerment coach, international motivational speaker, women's leadership expert, children's book author, board officer, podcast host, and girl-mom. Gia empowers high-achieving women to break free from the relentless “never enough” cycle and redefine success on their own terms. Through her signature framework, Radical Prioritization, Gia guides women toward authentic alignment, helping them focus on what truly matters to create impactful, fulfilling lives. Gia is a catalyst for change, inspiring women to redefine what it means to lead, live, and thrive. Scarlett and Gia talked about allostatic load which is when we build up stress chemicals in the nervous system and get stuck in freeze, fight or flight. They also discussed the top regret of people who are dying, which is ‘I wasn't my authentic self.’ In Gia's research 69% of people said they felt like they were never enough and 75% of people went through life by grinning and bearing it! With over 70% of Americans lacking self-esteem, and our innate negative bias that has our brains buying the fear that is sold through media and messaging, no wonder we're feeling anxious and overwhelmed! Gia offers some tips and hints on how we honor ourselves and gain perspective and prioritize.  https://gialacqua.com/

Scarlett’s guest is Dr. James Gordon, author of the book Transforming Trauma. Scarlett and Dr. Gordon discuss transformative trauma and how people don’t realize that trauma helps us to learn and grow. Dr. Gordon says, “Suffering  is the soil in which wisdom and compassion grow; it is the school from which we graduate, committed to healing others’ hurt.”  Dr. James S. Gordon is the Founder and CEO of The Center for Mind-Body Medicine. A Harvard-educated psychiatrist, Dr. Gordon founded the Center for Mind Body Medicine in 1991 to make self-awareness, self-care, and group support central to all healthcare and education systems. Dr. Gordon leads a global faculty who have spread its therapeutic and educational programs to hundreds of thousands of traumatized and stressed people confronting the challenges of anxiety, depression, and chronic and life-threatening illnesses. Dr. Gordon believes that, regardless of age or education level, everyone has a great and largely untapped capacity to help and heal ourselves and one another. https://cmbm.org/communities/

In today's episode, Scarlett interviews Dr. Wes Center, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, BCN Fellow, President & Clinic Director of Brain & Behavior Associates and Chief Science And Technology Officer for OCAT Neurotech, LLC. A former Major in the US Marines,  Wes specializes in optimizing brain health and reducing symptoms using the latest qEEG technology and neurofeedback. "Why are psychiatrists the only doctors that don't image the organ they work on?" Having seen many misdiagnoses and correlated medication, Dr. Center has found many of the diagnosed issues that come to him are from lack of sleep or other brain based issues. Working with ADHD, autism, PTSD and more, Dr. Center has many success stories of patients being restored to health using his methods and neurofeedback! https://brainandbehaviorassociates.com/dr-center/

Scarlett’s guests are Erika Neil and Veronica Bovenzi, havening specialists who have partnered to write books for children, teens and young adults. Havening is a popular and simple self-regulating tool for teachers and parents to use on themselves and with their students and children. This engaging podcast discusses easy ways to incorporate havening into school and home life to enhance feelings of safety and support.  For handouts, books, videos, and links, and other resources for schools and families please see: https://www.humanitarianhavening.org/havening-in-schools.html and Https://www.humanitarianhavening.org/family-havening.html

Pam Kissoondayl is a certified Life Coach, certified Jack Canfield Success Principals trainer and current chair of the Center for Autism and Related Disability at the University of Florida. She has over 20 years of experience in providing keynotes, webinars and workshops with a family centered/partnership approach for parents and educators in service to the special needs population. Pam partners with agencies and professionals in related fields and has presented on a variety of topics disability related at local, regional, state, national and international conferences. She is a collaborative partner with deafblink programs and serves as a mentor and facilitator on several activities to enrich and enhance family engagement and cultivating family leadership. As the mom of a special needs child herself, she is an expert and has valuable experience and information from her own struggles from the parent as well as educator standpoint. Pam's philosophy is that professional development and personal development go hand in hand. She is also an author of a children's book called "Be Brave.” https://www.amazon.com/Be-Brave-Pam-Kissoondyal/dp/1504340108

This special Choose Love for Corrections podcast delves into the profound impact of the program within the Miami North Corrections Community Release Center. Join Shannon Desilets, Choose Love Program Director, and Garry Tucker, a resident and also peer facilitator of the first ever Choose Love for Corrections at this Miami facility.  They discuss the importance of creating an environment where individuals can explore their emotions, confront past choices, and envision a more positive future. Garry shares his personal journey, detailing how Choose Love for Corrections not only changed his perspective but also empowered him to inspire fellow inmates.  Together, they share how Choose Love can lead to meaningful change, not just within the walls of correctional facilities, but also beyond.

“Choosing love is as simple as knowing where to look.” Bill McKennaScarlett’s guests are Bill McKenna and Liz Larsen, founders of Cognomovement that helps students overcome academic anxiety, focus on challenges, and absorb knowledge with unprecedented efficiency by using neuroscience to activate different parts of a student's brain to calm and activate their learning center.Cognomovement quiets students ‘fight or flight response’ and improves behavior and performance in the classroom. Bill and Liz offer online and in-person courses for educators to learn how to do this with their students in the classroom. Cognomovement also helps trauma survivors, leaders, athletes, and everyone seeking balance in their lives. This groundbreaking approach is an easy, communicative way to give individuals the resilience they need to navigate life’s ups and downs. Cognomovement was created from a deep-rooted desire to aid healing and foster growth. Cognomovement is more than a methodology—it's a movement of transformation. Based in San Diego, California, the transformative reach spans across the globe, providing workshops, classes, and training both online and in-person. The mission is to fortify individuals with effective tools to dismantle old patterns holding you back, paving the way for a life of unlimited possibilities.https://www.cognomovement.com

Scarlett welcomes Jesse Saperstein, a best-selling author, autism advocate and motivational speaker. Jesse is considered one of the most respected leaders in the Anti-Bullying movement of his generation. Jesse also has a form of autism called Asperger’s syndrome (AS) that gives individuals some profound talents and challenges. Film & TV actress Sigourney Weaver said, “Jesse is funny, irreverent, and ultimately forgiving of all the damage we ‘well-adjusted’ typicals wreak on those who are a little different form us.” Scarlett and Jesse talk about the strengths of those on the spectrum as well as the challenges. They discuss ‘doomed first impressions’ and the long-term impact of bullying. Jesse discusses the philosophy he’s cultivated throughout his life’s ups and downs and the support groups he runs each week that he invites listeners to join. During the episode, he provides advice for educators and parents as well as how he faces his toughest challenge yet, fear of change. His latest advocacy has focused on drawing attention to sextortion and trying to prevent the associated trauma. Jesse is brilliant, insightful and portrays his opinions with a witty sense of humor and fun. https://www.jessesaperstein.com

Scarlett’s guest is Dr. Joel ‘Gator’ Warsh, a board-certified pediatrician in Los Angeles, California who specializes in Parenting, Wellness and Integrative Medicine. Dr. Warsh helps parents think through parenting decisions and he helps them to de-stress and talk through their parenting options. Scarlett and Dr. Warsh discuss his new book, Parenting at Your Child’s Pace: The Integrative Pediatrician's Guide to The First Three Years, a parenting guide for the first three years backed by science and rooted in holistic health practices. Scarlett and Dr. Warsh discuss the importance of being aware of toxins in our food, beauty and cleaning products. Our bodies can only handle so much, and we might need to detoxify so that our bodies do not suffer from chronic inflammation that results from prolonged exposure. Simple, small changes that you can make today can make a big difference in our children’s health and well-being going forward.  Dr. Gator has published research in peer-reviewed journals on topics including childhood injuries, obesity and physical activity. He has been featured in numerous documentaries, films, summits, podcasts and articles including CBS, Fox, LA Parent, Washington Post, MindBodyGreen, and many others. He is also the founder of the Parenting Masterclass Platform Raising Amazing which can be found at RaisingAmazingPlus.com

Dr. Marty K. Casey is the founder of the UnGUN Institute which is a “trauma informed company that specializes in disarming violence on the spectrum.” The UnGUN Institute has a holistic approach that covers the mind, body and spirit. By engaging the arts to express and connect to one’s personal inner healing, their goal is to move individuals to a safe place that ensures healthy connections and personal peace. Dr. Casey created this institute for her family to help them heal from the trauma of gun violence. The UnGUN umbrella helps individuals with ‘trauma tracing’ to help them define the areas in their life that can cause more harm and help them manage their problems. The Ungun Institute has four pillars which are give, forgive, heal, and love and has been effective in preventing gun violence in communities. Dr. Casey created Stop, Breathe, Think to help prevent gun violence by teaching individuals to take that pause to help them make the right choice in a difficult situation. Dr. Marty K. Casey, a Global Peace Ambassador, has built a fulfilling and impactful career that traverses entertainment and community service, an anointed singer, gifted actress, writer, producer, and director. No matter what hat she is wearing her noteworthy goal is pointed– “To heal our community, to provide a response and outlet for inbred trauma.” https://unguninstitute.com

Scarlett’s guest is Ross Ellis, CEO and Founder of STOMP Out Bullying®. Ross is a nationally recognized subject matter expert for her work in bullying and cyberbullying prevention, violence against children, online safety, as well as being an expert in parenting. Ross founded STOMP Out Bullying, the leading national bullying and cyberbullying prevention nonprofit for kids and teens in the U.S. STOMP Out Bullying has since become the most influential anti-bullying organization in the country.Scarlett and Ross discuss parent responsibility in helping kids with their behavioral and mental health issues that can affect other students at school. Schools need to work with parents in teaching kids empathy and kindness. Ross has been setting up ‘wellness rooms’ in schools for kids (both the bully and victim who are both hurting) to decompress. The room has sensory materials and sensory games as well as motivational signs. Ross wants to teach everyone to love their friends, their teachers and most importantly, themselves. Under Ms. Ellis’ leadership, STOMP Out Bullying has helped over 5 million youths in resolving bullying situations. She established a 24/7 HelpChat Line for youths who have been bullied, cyberbullied and at-risk for suicide. To date the organization has helped over 100,000 students and has saved over 2,000 lives. STOMP Out Bullying® is the leading national nonprofit dedicated to changing the culture for all students. It works to reduce and prevent bullying, cyberbullying and other digital abuse, educates against homophobia, LGBTQ+ discrimination, racism and hatred, and deters violence in schools, online and in communities across the country. STOMP Out Bullying promotes civility, diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. It teaches effective solutions on how to respond to all forms of bullying, as well as educating kids and teens in school and online. It provides help for those in need and at risk of suicide, and raises awareness through peer mentoring programs in schools, public service announcements by noted celebrities, and social media campaigns.https://www.stompoutbullying.org

Scarlett’s guest is Chris Evers of Animal Embassy. Chris shares his personal story of how he came to teach essential life skills through animals. His goal is to cultivate kindness in schools and elsewhere through  his fun, interactive programs. This consists of research-based, live animal experiences for people of all ages that brings science curriculum ‘to life’ for school students. Chris helps children appreciate the diversity of life on earth with an extraordinary variety of live Animal Ambassadors. He encourages critical thinking by facilitating the recognition of our similarities and appreciation of the differences in all living things. Chris also provides anti-bullying/community building programs with live Animal Ambassadors through entertaining, educating and engaging people of all ages and abilities. Scarlett and Chris discuss his ‘creating kindness’ program with animals that he is bringing to schools and communities.  Christopher Evers is a naturalist specializing in wildlife conservation and environmental education. In 2002, Chris founded Animal Embassy, dedicated to exotic animal rescue/adoption and environmental education. Chris brings over twenty-five years of experience teaching children, working with nature centers and nonprofit environmental organizations, and developing educational programming. Animal Embassy specializes in both live and online educational and interactive experiences for students of all ages, varying needs and special abilities. Program offerings enable students to connect with the natural world in a nurturing & safe environment through online animal visits, wildlife artifact exhibits and digital slide presentations. Chris travels around the globe photographing wildlife in their natural habitats and discovering diverse cultures. Photography, stories and artifacts from these adventures are often utilized in their programs.  Check out Chris’ website. www.animalembassady.com

This is Part 2 of Scarlett Lewis’ podcast with Dr. Sally Goldberg, a pioneer in the field of early childhood education. Scarlett and Dr. Goldberg believe the magic word to the healthy development of our children is ‘connection.’ Parents need to focus on connection when their children are at a young age. Dr. Goldberg says that it’s best started from birth and she describes the five areas of development and how they are carried out at each age and stage. There is a bonding and attachment process over the first three years of a child’s life which leads to self-esteem. Dr. Goldberg believes that parents can be taught to keep focusing on connection with their children at any age and stage. She also believes that a solid family (and extended family, too) creates the foundation that leads to connection.  Sally Goldberg, Ph.D. is a professor of education, parenting expert and author.  Her unique, logical, and down-to-earth advice has been quoted in numerous magazines and newspapers including Parent’s Magazine and American Baby. Dr. Sally is one of the nation’s first parent coaches and founder of Dr. Sally Parenting, Inc. She was the first parenting expert on “Parent to Parent,” a FOX TV Channel 7 weekly news segment. A prolific magazine writer, Dr. Sally has been published in a multitude of magazines across the country.

Scarlett Lewis’ guest is Avraham Frank who encourages all schools to implement a Moment of Silence each school day. He has seen the gratitude of principals, teachers, students and parents in schools who use a moment of silence each school day. Avraham reads letters to Scarlett from students and principals who have written to him with appreciation for this pause at the start of the day which allows children to not only care about themselves, but think of other children around the world. They feel proud of themselves and appreciative of their lives.This program is free and no training is necessary because it’s so simple and can be done during morning announcements. Scarlett and Avraham discuss how this moment allows children to become self-aware and develop social awareness because they realize ‘how I am feeling affects others.’ Avraham said, "The daily practice in the morning of a minute of silence in schools has resulted in children being calmer, stress-free, more focused, and happier. Attendance at these schools has gone up because the children simply look forward to this calm, relaxing time, where they can "explore themselves" and discover new character traits that they were unaware of. Schools have reported increases in math and reading scores and less running around in the hallways and less vandalism in the school yard. Children have even been doing this practice at home to face crises. This is simply an all-win practice where the the student, the parent, the teacher, and the principal -all win.In many testimonials, children have poured out their thanks to the teacher and the principal who brought the practice into the school. The practice is free and no training is needed. The dynamics are simple: Every morning the school announces over the loudspeaker that before they study the school subjects that they need to know to be successful and be able to make  a living, they are given a minute to reflect. After this minute is over, the school day goes on as usual. The parents are encouraged to discuss with their child what to think about on a daily basis." Listen to this podcast to find out how to implement a Moment of Silence in your schools. https://momentofsilence.info/

Scarlett Lewis and her mom, Maureen Lewis, interview world renowned physician and advocate for chronic illness patients, Dr. Bernie Siegel at his home in Woodbridge, CT. As a physician who has cared for and counseled innumerable people who’ve been threatened by an illness, Bernie embraces a philosophy of living and dying that stands at the forefront of the medical ethics and spiritual issues our society grapples with today. He continues to assist in the breaking of new ground in the field of healing and personally struggling to live the message of kindness and love. Since retiring from general and pediatric surgical practice, Dr. Siegel has dedicated himself to humanizing the medical establishment’s approach to patients and empowering patients to induce their own healing. His many books include Peace, Love and Healing, 365 Prescriptions for the Soul, and Love, and Medicine and Miracles. Dr. Siegel is a sought after speaker on patient and caregiver issues and he is a fan of precognitive drawing or when kids draw about their death. Join Scarlett and her mom as Dr. Siegel shares his incredible wisdom and stories with all of us.

Scarlett’s guest is Las Vegas pastor, Troy Martinez, founder of Dads in Schools. In response to rising behavioral issues, substance abuse and even gangs, Troy brought together a movement of community leaders, parents, and local volunteers who understand the power of presence to provide a safe environment that enables students to thrive as they focus on their relationships and education. This successful program can be duplicated in your area to provide sense of safety and caring.  https://www.dadsinschools.com/

"I have been so inspired by you and what you've taught me. So much about what I've learned through the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement has led Kimberly and I to writing the words on the pages in our book The Dove Who Inspired Beyond Barbed Wire: Dr. Viktor Frankl.”  Scarlett’s guests are author and educator, Andrea Ackerly and illustrator and educator, Kimberly J. B. Smith. They discuss their new book, “The Dove Who Inspired Beyond Barbed Wire". A shared admiration for the life and teachings of Dr. Viktor Frankl inspired this book collaboration and its message will inspire all who read it to focus on the things they can control and focus on fulfilling a loving and meaningful life of service and kindness. Learn how to have hard conversations with your kids, about current events. This is a timely podcast! To purchase this book: https://www.amazon.com/Dove-Inspired-Beyond-Barbed-Wire/dp/1960142992

Scarlett Lewis met Keely Roberts a few months after the tragedy that forever changed the lives of her family members and the Highland Park, IL community. During their July 4th Independence Day parade in 2022, a gunman opened fire — killing seven people and injuring more than 40. Among the victims were Keely Roberts, and her twin sons Cooper and Luke, both 8 at the time. Cooper, was hit in the back with a bullet that exited his chest, damaging his aorta, liver, esophagus and spinal cord, paralyzing him from the waist down. His fraternal twin brother, Luke, was also wounded. The gunman Robert Crimo III, 22, is awaiting trial on 21 counts of first-degree murder, 48 counts of attempted murder and 48 counts of aggravated battery with a firearm. His father, Robert Crimo Jr., 59, was also arrested on seven counts of felony reckless conduct for allegedly helping his son procure a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card when he knew his son was a danger to the public. He recently pled guilty and is now serving time in jail. The Robertses, along with dozens of others, also filed a lawsuit against the Crimos, manufacturer Smith & Wesson, online distributor Buds Gun Shop and retailer Red Dot Arms. “We moved to Highland Park because it was safe. And then this happens,” says Keely, a former school superintendent. “But by the grace and kindness of others, a lot of good has happened too.” Keely proposes a fantastic idea - What does it mean to be a villager? accountable for human connection, seeing the light of humanity in each other, being kind, fault versus responsibility, leaning into community, being part of something greater than yourself, asking for help, open and trust of those around you, reminding yourself there is more good than bad. caring show we don't walk along. "Human existence is a team sport" SEL is fundamentally critical, at least as important as academics. 

Jonathan Lewis, Sr.'s son was murdered outside his high school in Las Vegas by a group of fellow classmates. The attack occurred on 11/1/23 and he was taken off life support 6 days later. Jonathan Jr. died defending his friend. He was murdered over a set of headphones and a vape pen. His dad responded by expressing forgiveness and compassion toward his killers.  He said, "I think there's a failure of all humanity to recognize that we need to be teaching our kids to co-exist."  He says, 'we are the ones we've been waiting for....' https://teamjonathanlewis.com

Scarlett interviews Jenna Moniz, education program specialist for the HeartMath Institute. They discuss the power the heart has to influence all organs in the body based on your thoughts and emotions. Every bodily system syncs with the heart. Using scientific measurements of heart rate variability, the time intervals between heartbeats. High HRV is a result of anxiety, stress and anger and leads to depression, health issues and higher risk of death. High HRV is a result of love and appreciation and results in enhanced well-being, performance, cognition, sleep, your body's ability to relax and recover, resilience, flexibility and adaptability. The goal is heart coherence and order, harmony and stability where your nervous system is synchronized and your bodily systems optimized.  Your brain's function improves with heart coherence and enables you to access the intelligence of the heart that includes higher level thinking and problem solving capabilities. Using the Choose Love formula and changing angry thoughts to loving ones increases HRV and adds to coherence. Your level of coherence can impact those around you bringing peace, or chaos. Learn how to find coherence in this podcast and maximize your potential as well as your students’ potential.

Scarlett’s guest for this episode is Angela Duckworth, author of Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Angela describes grit as having what some researchers call an”ultimate concern”– a goal you care about so much that it gives meaning to almost everything you do. Grit is holding steadfast to that goal even when you fall down and when progress toward that goal is halting or slow. Scarlett and Angela discuss growing hope because a growth mindset leads to optimistic self-talk that then leads to perseverance over adversity.    Scarlett and Angela infuse the Choose Love Formula into the extensive research Angela has dedicated herself to on grit and personal success. This includes having the courage to find what you enjoy, thinking of something you are grateful for to stay positive and strengthen what you want to master, finding a deeper purpose greater than yourself, and having compassion in action which is doing something, not just feeling it. Hope is when we let our pain go and that is strengthened by practicing forgiveness. All of the Choose Love formula values (courage+gratitude+forgiveness+compassion-in-action) lead to the grittiness required to achieve your goals. Angela Duckworth is an academic and psychologist focusing on achievement, researcher and author of Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. She is co-founder of Character Lab, a nonprofit whose mission is to advance scientific insights that help children thrive. She is also the Rosa Lee and Egbert Chang Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and faculty co-director of the Penn-Wharton Behavior Change for Good Initiative. Her podcast, No Stupid Questions, is part of the Freakonomics Radio family.