From Mayhem To Mindset With Dr. Laura

Have you been so isolated at work or school that you feel the need to quit the job or switch schools? It feels like bullying but not exactly, and no one can help. There's a name for it, "mobbing" and it is more pervasive at work, at schools, and in social groups than people realize. Join Dr. Laura and Alicia Laszewski, founder of Kind Ethos and author of the soon-to-be release book "Stop the Mobbing," to unpack what it is and how to stop it. The conversation is candid and unrehearsed, centering around real-life stories of mobbing that shaped the trajectory of the book. Key takeaways from the podcast are:What is mobbing and how to spot it?How to handle a tough conversation when mobbing is happening.A look in the mirror for all of us as mobbers and victims of mobbing. This is an episode you will be talking about for weeks and have you reflecting on your personal relationship with mobbing. | 

The use of Ketamine has gotten a bad rap due to multiple media stories about those who have abused it. However, Ketamine has valid clinical uses (e.g., treatment resistant depression) and the potential to help others who have failed multiple medication trials or who can't take medication for various reasons. Listen in as Dr. Laura speaks with Dr. Evan Peskin, a dual boarded Anesthesiologist and Interventional Pain Medicine Physician who operates Sanctuary Healthcare. His clinic focuses on the appropriate use of Ketamine for treatment resistant depression and PTSD and researches the potential future uses of Ketamine in an ethical and responsible way.

We've all seen it — the sudden silence, the group chat you're not in anymore, the friend who "just can't tell you why." Dr. Laura sits down with Alicia Leszewski, founder of Brand Ethos and Kind Ethos and leader of the Stop the Mobbing movement, to unpack workplace mobbing: the subtle, coordinated form of social isolation that hides in plain sight at work, school, and on athletic teams — and that most of us have both experienced and unknowingly participated in.Alicia opens up about the corporate culture that pushed her to see a psychiatrist for the first time in her life, walking away from a job weeks after a double mastectomy surrounded by workplace cruelty, and how that experience — plus watching her own daughter get mobbed in high school — led her to build a movement (and an upcoming book) around naming what's happening and teaching leaders, coaches, and parents how to spot it before it does lasting damage. It's all about the mindset!Guest: Alicia Leszewski, Founder of Brand Ethos & Kind Ethos, Stop the Mobbing movement Find her: LinkedIn and Instagram — Kind Ethos

Negotiating the parent-child relationship is tricky at every stage of life, but can be especially painful when it leads to estrangement. Listen in as Estrangement Recovery Coach Wendy Vineyard discusses ways to build a fulfilling relationship with your adult child and how to manage boundaries at any life stage. It's all about the mindset!

Many of us go through life wearing masks...hiding who we truly are and trying to push down the pain of knowing the truth. We may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other self destructive habits in order to distract us from reality. Listen in as guests Marc Kantor and David Osterman discuss David's painful years of hiding his sexuality from his family and his wife and the drug abuse that resulted from trying to run from the pain. David dives deep into his "a-ha" moment and switch in mindset after surviving a harrowing accident (while high) that almost took his life. It's all about the mindset!

ADHD is like having a supercomputer in the brain...but with 25 tabs open, music playing, and a constant stream of chatter. Join Trevor Ellick, a 2 time NAIA lacrosse National Champion and 2024 graduate of Keiser University as he discusses the challenges of having ADHD. Listen in as Trevor discusses becoming aware of how his brain works differently than others and how he constantly works to use his superpower to his benefit. It's all about the mindset!

So many people know exactly what they want to do—but they can’t get themselves to actually do it. Or maybe someone has so many interests that they get overwhelmed at the possibility of choosing one particular career path. Join Avi Friedman, Executive Functioning and Time Management Coach as he discusses the strategies that he teaches both young adults and business owners so that they can move forward with confidence and a plan!

If there is one thing that Italians are known for (besides the Mafia!), it's food! So what does it take to convert your Nonna's recipes to align with a vegan lifestyle? Enter Danny Costanzo, owner of Plant Based Mafia, a vegan restaurant in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. After a significant health scare, Danny decided to overhaul his diet and create a restaurant where individuals who are committed to a vegan lifstyle can enjoy their favorite foods (and the gluten free chocolate cake is definitely my favorite)!

MA, Ph.D, Psy.D WTF? What's it like to really chase your dream of becoming a Psychologist? Tune in as Dr. Laura Ellick goes back in time to reveal what she wished she knew before jumping into the 8 year process of becoming a Licensed Psychologist. Let's overanalyze the choice to delay gratification, rack up student loan debt, and throw self care out the window....all due to a passion for helping and a professional calling that you just can't shake!

There are 206 excellent reasons to think about building bone BEFORE peri menopause and menopause. Joining me is Mayhem's favorite Physician Associate Margarita Murphy from OneLife Health And Performance. Prior to entering the longevity medicine field, Margarita worked in orthopedics and knows way more than "the leg bone's connected to the hip bone." Listen in as Margarita discusses bone health across the life span, how diet and exercise can help build and maintain bone, and what options women have to stay strong post menopause! https://www.onelifehealthandperformance.com/

RERUN EPISODEInfidelity, cheating, stepping out—we probably all know someone who has experienced betrayal in a relationship, but what actually drives the behavior?In this encore presentation of one of our most thought-provoking episodes, life coach, writer, and educator Dani Murrell joins the conversation to share her personal experience with infidelity and the complex emotions, circumstances, and relationship dynamics that can lead someone down that path.While some cases involve addiction or deeper psychological struggles, many people who have affairs never set out to hurt their partners or damage their relationships. So how does it happen? And why can it be so difficult to end?Dani offers a candid and courageous perspective on issues including communication breakdowns, emotional and sexual disconnection, identity, unmet needs, resentment, and the gradual decisions that can lead people into situations they never expected.This conversation isn't about judgment—it's about understanding. Whether you've experienced infidelity personally, supported someone who has, or simply want to better understand the complexities of human relationships, this episode provides valuable insight and reflection.As you revisit this powerful discussion, we invite you to listen with curiosity, compassion, and an open mind.Guest: Dani Murrell, Life Coach, Writer, and EducatorMore information: www.danimurrellcoaching.paperbell.com

It's always really cool when you run into someone who has a similar passion....enter Sarah Starkoff Green who hosts her own podcast, "The Menopause Playbook" Sarah kindly sat down for a spontaneous conversation about all things menopause related, including the importance of educating men about this change of life. While menopause is a "natural" phase, the symptoms are painful, distressing and life disruption AND there are things women can do to alleviate them all!

If you've spent any time in the eating disorder field, you will recognize the name Jessica Setnick, MS, RD CEDS-C. Jessica spent many years developing evidence based treatment protocols and educating professionals about the role of dieticians in eating disorder recovery. In addition to being an author and speaker, Jessica is the founder of IFEDD (The International Federation of Eating Disorder Dieticians) and advocates to ensure that nutrition counseling is covered by insurance for ED treatment.

In this episode of From Mayhem to Mindset, Dr. Laura Ellick sits down with professional boxer Jean Hollow Tip Gabriel to explore his inspiring journey from collegiate football to the boxing ring. Jean Hollow shares how discipline, perseverance, and an unshakable mindset helped him overcome challenges and succeed in one of the toughest sports in the world.He opens up about the mental side of boxing—why he believes it’s 90% mindset—along with the importance of preparation, therapy, and giving back to others. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply navigating life’s obstacles, Jean Hollow’s story will motivate you to stay consistent, stay true to yourself, and never give up

Most people become confused by words and phrases such as "on the spectum," "neurodivergent," or AuDHD, partcularly as more and more children and adults are being diagnosed with ADHD and autism spectrum disorders. Enter Tara McDonnell, LCSW, RPT-S and therapist Sami Wallshein, both of whom are devoted to early diagnosis and intervention. Tara recently founded The Neurodiversity Circle in order to gather professionals in supporting individuals with neurodiversity and continues to run her practice

What happens when a loved one is struggling with mental health or addiction in Florida and refuses help? What is the difference between a Baker Act, Marchman Act, and guardianship? Join Florida Attorney Mark Astor as he educates us on the multiple ways families can help a relative in need of treatment. We'll discuss the pros and cons of legal intervention and explore the ethical issues that arise, particularly when an individual chooses to cease treatment entirely.

MA, Ph.D, Psy.D WTF? What's it like to really chase your dream of becoming a Psychologist? Tune in as Dr. Laura Ellick goes back in time to reveal what she wished she knew before jumping into the 8 year process of becoming a Licensed Psychologist. Let's overanalyze the choice to delay gratification, rack up student loan debt, and throw self care out the window....all due to a passion for helping and a professional calling that you just can't shake!

Susan Block, LMFT works every day with couples who are trying to recover from infidelity. Listen in as Susan and Dr. Laura discuss the biggest challenges in working with couples AND how you can tell whether a relationship is going to work or not. Her many years as a private practice therapist running her own business gave Susan a special look into the mindset of a business owner--so much so that she now runs a coaching business that helps therapists navigate the blocks that prevent success! www.coralspringscounselingcenter.com

Nobody knows the power of transformation more than a personal trainer. But Tim Kassouf (aka timstagramcpt on IG) is more than just a personal trainer. Tim knows what it is like to lose everything, to do the soul searching, and to start over from nothing. Listen in as Tim discusses the role of mindset in his journey from substance use, disordered eating, and low self-esteem to a life in which he has the opportunity to help others create lasting change from the inside out!

What makes successful individuals lose everything to substance use? Addiction isn’t about weakness. It’s about patterns—dopamine, secrecy, reinforcement, shame—and the temporary relief that keeps the cycle going, even when the consequences are massive. Join Dr. Laura and Tim Roberto, CAC, RCP as they speak about the desire to escape discomfort and how a maladaptive coping strategy can blossom into addiction! www.sotsinc.org

College athletes are a special breed: they eat, sleep, and breathe their sport, AND need to attend class and get good grades. They are there to play, but what happens when an injury derails that process? Join me as guest athlete Owen Ellick discusses finding his passion and pursuing college lacrosse at SUNY Geneseo. Owen will recount the details of his ACL injury and demonstrate how he navigated this setback to come back even stronger through the power of mindset and resilience. It's all about the mindset! GO KNIGHTS!

It's not uncommon for people to underestimate the extent to which trauma has affected every aspect of life--until it can no longer be ignored. Listen in as Glenn Derby discusses how trauma influenced his relationships, his addiction, and even his life in the NFL. Once Glenn recognized his own CPTSD and sought help, it allowed him the ability to move fully into a purpose driven life. www.GlennDerby.com

We know that pre teen and adolescent girls face struggles ranging from depression to eating disorders to bullying. But how do we help these young women take back their lives? Enter Mindy Hanken, MSW, Executive Director of The Pace Center for Girls. Providing young women with stable, consistent education, emotional and therapeutic support, and the life skills needed to succeed are keys to empowering our youth! https://www.pacecenter.org/

Not many people can say they survived not one, but TWO World Trade Center bombings. Dave Mahler is one of those individuals. He then had to face his own addiction and the loss of his daughter to substance use disorder as well. However, Dave took is pain and transformed it into purpose. He is now a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach, a CFAA and owns his own coaching business "Ground Zero Recovery Coaching." Join Dave as he discusses how he changed his life and now helps others to change theirs  https://www.groundzerorecoverycoaching.com

Many people say that music is therapeutic...Well Mark Torre, LMHC. MCAP would definitely agree.  Mark originally worked in recording studios in NY and is an accomplished musician, but then transitioned to his current work as a Psychotherapist.  Join Dr. Laura as she and Mark discuss how music soothes the savage beast (let's talk catharsis), why being an eclectic therapist is NOT a bad thing, and how 12 step work continues to be a powerful force for many struggling with SUD

In this episode, Dr. Laura Ellick shares her personal journey from chaos to emotional regulation through the power of mindset. She discusses the challenges faced during the holiday season, including family health issues and the importance of prioritizing self-care. Dr. Laura emphasizes the significance of mental preparation, setting realistic expectations, and utilizing support systems. She also reflects on the growth of her podcast and the positive impact it has had on her community.

Have you ever felt like you were in the midst of a bad reality TV episode and all you could do was watch? If so, then this podcast is screaming your name! Join Dr. Laura for the very first episode of "From Mayhem to Mindset" as we tackle chaos head on.  Believe it or not, going from surviving to thriving  is all about the mindset! We'll discuss practical shifts in perspective, laugh at the absurdity of life, and ask the tough questions that help us understand how we got here and how we can move beyond the mayhem!

As a first-generation Latina, Priscilla Maria Gutierrez was taught to work hard, stay humble, and make her family proud. But somewhere between striving and surviving, she lost sight of her definition of success.  Listen in as Priscilla discusses how she shifted from law to coaching and mental health advocacy! Don't forget to check out Priscilla's new book "Break the Cycle Before it Breaks You"

So many people know exactly what they want to do—but they can’t get themselves to actually do it.  Or maybe someone has so many interests that they get overwhelmed at the possibility of choosing one particular career path.  Join Avi Friedman, Executive Functioning and Time Management Coach as he discusses the strategies that he teaches both young adults and business owners so that they can move forward with confidence and a plan!

My special guest today, Sarah Frias has over 16 years experience as a nurse and has been in long term recovery herself for 8 years.  She is currently  Managing Partner at Next Level Recovery Associates which has allowed us to collaborate on finding appropriate treatment for individuals with significant emotional and medical challenges. Listen in as Sarah and I discuss WHY personalized care, being creative with treatment approaches, and always being transparent contribute significantly to a patient's success. AND....neither Sarah nor I are the least bit intimidating so come over and say "hi" when you see us!!!

What happens when you are just starting your life and the unthinkable becomes reality? Unfortunately, Smithtown, NY (Go Bulls!) native Jagger Rubio can tell us exactly what happens when brain cancer interferes with all of your plans.  However, Jagger is an example of the power of mindset in action! He's teaching us all about living in the moment, pursuing passions that energize (check out his TikTok @jaggerrubio) and not taking anything for granted. Thank you Jagger for sharing your wisdom!  Please consider donating to Jagger's go fund me to help this young man pursue all treatment options with the support of his family by his side: https://gofund.me/b22b9918a

Mayhem's very first guest, David Osterman, is back with an update, having just completed one year of sobriety! David discussed the years he hid his sexuality and the lies and addiction that sent him on a downward spiral  A devastating fall while under the inflluence of meth almost killed him, yet David used the experience to create an entirely new life.  David is back to update us on his journey and to discuss his new business as a gay men's life coach! Let's go David!

If you struggle with an autoimmune disorder or other "invisible illness," the frustrations pile up: getting a diagnosis, coping with a reality in which you may feel lousy many days of the week, dealing with comments that "you look 'fine.'" In addition, you may struggle with body image or eating due to symptoms related to your disorder.  What is it like to put on a "mask" every day and pretend that you're fine when your body is on fire? Join Dr. Laura and her special guest Tamie Gangloff, MA MFT (Founding President of the Southwest Philly IAEDP chapter) as we discuss Tamie's new book, "Chronic Illness and Eating Disorders."  Listen in to a fascinating discussion about the impact of illness and stigma, and learn how to handle those comments about "always" being sick.

As mental health professionals, our careers often take twists and turns as our lives and goals evolve.  Joining Mayhem for this episode is Roberto Sanchez, PsyD, LMHC, CIP, MS, MA, BA, AAS  who discusses his own career trajectory over the past 33 years.  From work as an expert forensic consultant to CEO/COO of various healthcare companies to current owner of Axiom Intervention and Case Management Services, Dr. Sanchez shares his experiences, discusses the current mental health crisis, and offers wise words about why forensic psychology has its own drawbacks (in spite of what you see on social media and TV).

Have you ever heard of a "heart doula?  Neither did I until I met Jess Garet, who embodies perfectly the qualities of a professional who knows how to link heart and soul to the messages that our bodies give us. Trained as a Somatic Psychotherapist, Jess also integrates breathwork and spiritual practices to help us connect to our deepest souls and recover from trauma and other adversive experiences

For better or for worse, social media, ChatGPT and AI are here to stay.  However, what is the impact of all of this technology on our brains and how we process information.  Join Dr. Laura as she speaks with neuroscientist Johan Tocre to learn more about the good (there is some!), the bad and the ugly of social media and technology use.

Welcome to the episode where female hormones take center stage—because let’s be honest, they run the whole show anyway! From PMS to perimenopause and hot flashes to brain fog, Physician Assistant Margarita Murphy from One Life Health and Performance gives us the inner scoop on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone (yes, women need T too!) Expect science made simple and plenty of laughs as we break down what’s happening in our bodies—and how to thrive through every stage of life! Grab your chocolate, pour a cup of tea and join us on this hormonal adventure!

The use of Ketamine has gotten a bad rap due to multiple media stories about those who have abused it. However, Ketamine has valid clinical uses (e.g., treatment resistant depression) and the potential to help others who have failed multiple medication trials or who can't take medication for various reasons.  Listen in as Dr. Laura speaks with Dr. Evan Peskin, a dual boarded Anesthesiologist and Interventional Pain Medicine Physician who operates Sanctuary Healthcare. His clinic focuses on the appropriate use of Ketamine for treatment resistant depression and PTSD and researches the potential future uses of Ketamine in an ethical and responsible way.

In this episode of From Mayhem to Mindset, Dr. Laura Ellick sits down with professional boxer Jean-Halo Tip Gabriel to explore his inspiring journey from collegiate football to the boxing ring. Jean-Halo shares how discipline, perseverance, and an unshakable mindset helped him overcome challenges and succeed in one of the toughest sports in the world.He opens up about the mental side of boxing—why he believes it’s 90% mindset—along with the importance of preparation, therapy, and giving back to others. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply navigating life’s obstacles, Jean-Halo’s story will motivate you to stay consistent, stay true to yourself, and never give up.

We all know that diets don't work; in fact, people often regain the weight that they have lost PLUS additional pounds. What if we focused less on what we weigh and more on how we feel?  Join Dr. Laura for a conversation with Registered Dietician Sarah K. Weiss (www.weisschoices.com), who tells her own story and urges us to follow our feelings in order to get and stay healthy.

How do you manage a world in which you know things aren't "right" but nobody can tell you what is going on?  Meet Reid Miles, podcast host of "Inside the Asperger's Studio" and soon to be author.  Although Reid received an ADHD diagnosis when he was young, he was not diagnosed with Autism until he was in his mid 20's.  While the diagnosis explained a lot of things (challenges being understood by others), Reid was determined to live a full life.  He earned a Bachelor's degree, went overseas for a Master's and travelled alone for 6 weeks in 6 countries.  His mom suggested that Reid start a podcast--he took her advice and his podcast is now rated #2 out of 20 autism podcasts to listen to in 2025.  Listen in as Reid discussed his journey and what he hopes his new book will do for others! https://aspergersstudio.com/

If there is one thing that Italians are known for (besides the Mafia!), it's food! So what does it take to convert your Nonna's recipes to align with a vegan lifestyle?  Enter Danny Costanzo, owner of Plant Based Mafia, a vegan restaurant in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.  After a significant health scare, Danny decided to overhaul his diet and create a restaurant where individuals who are committed to a vegan lifstyle can enjoy their favorite foods (and the gluten free chocolate cake is definitely my favorite)!

If you don't know Julie Khanna, she is the woman you want to meet! What started as a conversation about her passion working in health and wellness PR and media strategy turned into a chat that was creative, entertaining, and so much fun!  We touched on dating do's and don't's, ghosting, and the "hard discard."  

It’s been said that “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” (let’s include Jill in there too!).Executive coach, workplace trainer, and organizational consultant Blake Cohen believes that professional playfulness has a powerful impact on employee retention, workplace satisfaction, and overall productivity.Laughing and feeling connected at work is key to reducing burnout—yet so many companies still believe they can’t be “serious” and joyful at the same time.In this episode of From Mayhem to Mindset, Blake (also a doctoral student in Leadership and Organizational Psychology at William James College) joins Dr. Laura Ellick to unpack what’s broken in modern workplace culture—and what leaders can do to change it.You’re in for a fun and insightful conversation!Watch Blake’s TEDx talk here: The Power of Professional Playfulness

Infidelity, cheating, stepping out....We probably all know someone who has experienced infidelity in a relationship, but what actually drives the behavior?  Aside from those who are struggling with serious addiction or psychological issues, a majority of people will say that they never set out to have an affair or to hurt their partner. So how does it happen and what makes it so difficult to break it off?  Listen to Dani Murrell, a life coach, writer, and educator (www.danimurrellcoaching.paperbell.com) who bravely volunteered to discuss her experience. We can never know the full story of what goes on in another's relationship, but Dani highlights issues related to poor communication, sexual disconnection/identity, and resentment.  Please listen without judgment and stay to learn. 

What happens when a loved one is struggling with mental health or addiction in Florida and refuses help? What is the difference between a Baker Act, Marchman Act, and guardianship?  Join Florida Attorney Mark Astor as he educates us on the multiple ways families can help a relative in need of treatment. We'll discuss the pros and cons of legal intervention and explore the ethical issues that arise, particularly when an individual chooses to cease treatment entirely.

Who can forget Mayhem's very first guest, David Osterman? David discussed the years he hid his sexuality and the lies, addiction, and secret trysts with men that ensued as he struggled with the truth.  A devastating fall while under the inflluence of meth almost killed him, yet David used the experience to create an entire new life.  David is back with us to share his story of physical recovery (he can now walk unassisted) as well as his emotional sobriety journey.  Let's go David!

What if your nickname were "90 Day Chuck" because you could never stay sober longer than 90 days? How do you recover when your identity is wrapped around your addiction?  According to Chuck Madden, you just keep showing up to meetings and doing the work until it "clicks." While Chuck still admits that he cannot figure out what caused him to change his life on August 8, 2008, he is certain that "trauma is the 'gateway' to addiction."  Listen in as Chuck discusses his journey and why he keeps showing up for both himself and others!

It's been said often that working in mental health requires both a commitment to science and a creative flare.  Dr. Hector Rodriguez exemplifies both qualities beautifully.  Originally a fashion photographer, Dr. Hector tells how he was pulled to go to med school and now uses the science of brain imaging to help diagnose and heal both the physical and psychological hurts that plague us.  However, his creativity and eye for beauty live on in his wellness magazine "The White Butterfly Journal."   This is a conversation you don't want to miss!

A child exposed to abuse, addiction, and other trauma often adapts by learning to stay small, play "nice,"  and to never, ever speak the truth. Therapist, coach, and speaker Tricia Youngs, LMHC, MCAP, QS knows this because she WAS that child.  Now all grown up and committed to helping others find resilience and heal their wounds, Tricia has put her entire story in her brand new book Rescued: Hope for the Shattered Heart and Soul.  Join Dr. Laura as she and Tricia discuss her childhood wounds, the use of alcohol to try and numb herself, and the freedom she found when she began to tell her story.