HealingUS Podcast

n this powerful and forward-thinking episode, Daniel Regan sits down with Gledis Vogli, the founder of KuraHealth, to explore how technology, data, and human-centered design are reshaping the future of mental health and addiction treatment. Gledis shares the origin story of Kura Health, a platform she describes as “a centralized nervous system” for treatment centers - built to solve one of the industry’s biggest challenges: disconnected tools, siloed data, and missed opportunities to improve client care. What started as a response to inefficiencies has grown into a transformative solution that empowers clinicians, operators, and entire treatment systems.

Welcome back to the show. Today’s episode brings you a powerful story—one that reminds us that even in our darkest chapters, there is always room for redemption, healing, and a new beginning.Our guest, Nick Small, is living proof of that. His journey hasn’t been linear or easy. It’s been raw, honest, and marked by both struggle and transformation. But through resilience, self-reflection, and a deep commitment to becoming the best version of himself, Nick has rebuilt his life piece by piece.This is more than a conversation—it’s an exploration of what happens when someone chooses growth over guilt, purpose over pain, and healing over hiding. Nick’s story is a testament to second chances, to the work it takes to change, and to the impact one person’s evolution can have on an entire community.So settle in. You’re about to hear a journey that inspires, challenges, and reminds us that redemption is always possible.Let’s dive into the story of Nick Small.

Daniel Regan sits down with Latina social worker and author, Tania Vargas, founder of Just a Little Step. Created to support marginalized communities and break the stigma around mental health, Tania’s mission is rooted in empowerment and inclusivity. As a woman of color, she strives to create a safe space where therapy isn’t about being told what to do but about exploring your own thoughts and feelings, and learning how to prepare for a stronger future.

As Jesse Cody neared his 40th birthday, he was convinced it would be his last. Battling internal demons and thoughts of ending his life, everything changed after a powerful turning point that opened his eyes to what he stood to lose. Today, Jesse is the founder of Hike The Good Hike, a movement that inspires others through nature, resilience, and hope. His journey is raw, uplifting, and a reminder of the strength found in choosing life.

On this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, Daniel Regan sits down with Nicholas Lucarello for an inspiring and emotional conversation. From surviving a childhood marked by his parents’ heroin addiction to taking on the responsibility of raising his baby sister at just seven years old, Nick’s story is one of resilience and strength. Today, he leads Fight Life, dedicating his journey to empowering others and proving that adversity can fuel purpose.

In this powerful episode of the HealingUS Podcast, Daniel Regan sits down with Patrice Lenowitz to share her deeply moving journey after the tragic loss of her son, Max, to an accidental overdose from a Xanax pill laced with fentanyl. Patrice opens up about her heartbreak, resilience, and how she’s transforming grief into action. Discover the incredible work she’s leading to protect and empower teenagers across New Jersey.

On this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, host Kylie Christine sits down with Kim Ciccone to uncover her powerful journey of resilience and transformation. From navigating the challenges of adoption and feeling out of place to facing bullying head-on, Kim shares how she turned adversity into fuel for growth. Today, she’s a thriving entrepreneur and her story is a testament to perseverance, healing, and building a life of purpose.

On this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re honored to sit down with Lenny Antonina—a powerhouse in holistic healing and a beacon of resilience. A registered nurse, holistic health coach, yoga teacher, Reiki Master, and mother of five, Lenny’s story is one of profound healing, spiritual awakening, and unwavering determination. At just nine years old, Lenny lost her brother—a Vietnam War veteran—to suicide, a trauma that led to PTSD and a battle with bulimia. At 19, she endured a major car accident that reshaped her life yet again. Rather than succumb to pain, Lenny turned to holistic healing: embracing yoga, meditation, nutrition, and energy work as pathways to recovery. Today, she empowers others through her comprehensive health framework, The Five Pillars of Lenny, and her podcast, Ageless Vitality with Lenny Antonina. 🎧 In This Episode: Childhood trauma, PTSD & the ripple effects of loss The healing journey from bulimia & physical injury Embracing yoga, Reiki, and nutrition for whole-body wellness What it means to live with ageless vitality Insights from “The Five Pillars of Lenny” Real talk on resilience, motherhood, and mind-body healing Lenny’s wisdom and vulnerability will leave you feeling uplifted, grounded, and inspired to reclaim your own wellness—no matter where you’re starting from. You can find out more about Lenny and follow her here - https://linktr.ee/LennyAntonina?

In this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Pirrera—NPC bodybuilder, entrepreneur, and founder of Nitro Nutrition. Hailing from Toms River, New Jersey, Nick shares his powerful journey from student athlete to elite competitor and business owner, revealing the mindset and discipline it takes to thrive in both the fitness world and entrepreneurship. We dive deep into his early influences, the mental toll of competitive bodybuilding, and how he overcame major setbacks with grit and purpose. Nick opens up about launching Nitro Nutrition, managing stress under pressure, and the importance of building a supportive fitness community. Whether you're chasing a goal in the gym or life, this episode delivers raw insight into the power of resilience, consistency, and staying mentally strong through it all. 🎧 Topics Covered: Nick’s journey from Toms River to the NPC stage Mental health challenges in bodybuilding Starting Nitro Nutrition & fueling performance Stress management & mindset practices Advice for aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs What’s next for Nick in fitness and business 💥 This is an inspiring listen for anyone passionate about self-improvement, wellness, or chasing their dreams with relentless focus.

In this episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we sit down with Derek Pitera—entrepreneur, father of two, and founder of SC Arms, one of New Jersey’s largest and most respected firearms dealerships. From building a business in one of the country’s most tightly regulated states to becoming a trusted resource for celebrities, pro athletes, and law enforcement, Derek shares the real story behind his success. We explore Derek’s journey into the firearms industry, the challenges he faces as a business owner in a high-pressure and often controversial space, and how he stays grounded through it all. Derek opens up about fatherhood, mental health, and the resilience it takes to balance personal growth, family, and entrepreneurship. This conversation goes far beyond business—it's about grit, clarity under pressure, and what it means to lead with integrity and heart. 🎧 In This Episode: The origin of SC Arms & navigating NJ gun laws Mental health in entrepreneurship Handling public perception in a controversial industry Balancing fatherhood and business Strategies for stress, resilience, and mental clarity Core values and advice for entrepreneurs & parents 💡 Whether you're a business owner, parent, or simply looking to hear a raw and inspiring story of hustle and heart—this one's for you.

In this powerful episode of the HealingUS Podcast, we’re joined by AlanaFrancesca Perrotta—a New Jersey-based photographer, content creator, and storyteller who’s turned her personal pain into profound purpose. With a background in English lit and a heart for creativity, Alana shares her journey of loss and struggles to a whole new lens, using her camera to help others express themselves and find healing. Alana opens up about the devastating loss of her mother in 2011 and how that grief has shaped her perspective, her art, and her mental health journey. Her story is one of transformation—of channeling sorrow into self-expression, and vulnerability into strength. From navigating the demands of a creative career to honoring authenticity online, Alana offers insight, inspiration, and real-life strategies for living a life full of meaning, emotion, and truth. 🎧 In This Episode: Grief, growth & honoring her mother’s legacy Transitioning to photography as a medium of creativity Mental health in creative entrepreneurship Struggles with RJOCD (Reactive Jealousy Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Using art as a healing and expressive outlet Balancing authenticity and social media presence Navigating personal and professional boundaries This is a raw and relatable conversation for anyone seeking healing, courage, or creative inspiration in the face of adversity.

In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, we sit down with Ashley Close, a dedicated professional working in the field of addiction recovery. Ashley shares her personal journey, revealing the experiences and influences that led her to this meaningful work. We delve into how her understanding of addiction has evolved, the common misconceptions she encounters, and the importance of raising awareness about addiction in our communities. Ashley also discusses the challenges she faces in her role, the balance between work and personal life, and how Wellbridge actively supports individuals and families in their recovery journey. Tune in for valuable advice for families navigating a loved one’s addiction, insights into building community support, and an inspiring look at the impact of compassion and connection in addiction recovery.LinkTree:linktr.ee/hucentersDan Regan Instagram:instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=enRelevance Recovery Instagram:instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=enCalusa Recovery Instagram:instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=enAvisa Recovery Instagram:instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=enPrioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250

In this episode, we sit down with Peg Wright, the inspiring President and CEO of The Center for Great Expectations (CGE). Since founding CGE in 1998, Peg has transformed the organization from a single home for homeless, pregnant women into a comprehensive network offering trauma-informed care for women, adolescents, and families. Together, we explore her journey, CGE's mission, and the innovative programs they've developed to break cycles of homelessness, addiction, and trauma. Peg shares the core principles of trauma-informed care, the challenges in maternal mental health, and the transformative impact of CGE's programs. Tune in to hear powerful success stories, insights on the future of mental health care, and the legacy Peg hopes to leave behind. #pregnancyjourney #pregnancycare #pregnancytips #postpartum #postpartumhealth #postpartumwellness #postpartumrecovery LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Dee Gillen, the creator of the Black Poster Project, and Dawn Pizzolato and her pivotal role as operations manager. The Black Poster Project is an artistic and powerful tribute born from loss and resilience. After the devastating loss of her son Scott to an overdose, Dee channeled her grief into creating a moving exhibit called Silent Memorials. This traveling project, showcased throughout New Jersey and New York, uses impactful black-and-white posters to honor lives lost to addiction and raise awareness about the overdose epidemic. Dee shares her deeply personal story, the inspiration behind the project, and the challenges she’s faced along the way. We discuss the emotional impact of the Silent Memorials exhibit, its reception by the community, and the profound message of hope and awareness it conveys to families and individuals affected by addiction. Join us as Dee reflects on Scott's legacy, her proudest moments with the project, and her advice for others seeking to transform grief into meaningful action. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in love, loss, and community. #blackposterproject #theblackposterproject #healingus #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthsupport LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250

In this episode, Sydney shares her personal journey of overcoming challenges and the pivotal moments that inspired her to help others. Discover the transformative impact of breathwork, as Sydney explains how it can aid in the healing process and offers insights into the programs at Vital Breathwork. Whether you're curious about starting your own breathwork journey or seeking inspiration in recovery, this episode dives deep into the benefits, misconceptions, and personal experiences that make breathwork a vital tool for healing. Tune in to explore how breath can be a powerful force for change! LinkTree: linktr.ee/hucenters Dan Regan Instagram: instagram.com/danielreganrecovery/?hl=en Relevance Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/relevancerecovery/?hl=en Calusa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/calusa_recovery/?hl=en Avisa Recovery Instagram: instagram.com/avisa_recovery/?hl=en Prioritizing Your Mental Health On Your Bingo Card? Discover lasting wellness at our family-owned and operated facilities. Nationally Recognized for our holistic approach to life-changing healing. We specialize in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment at our facilities. Call us today at: 866-382-1522 Can't speak right now? Shoot us a text: 732-795-5250

In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, Danny & Ashley sit down with Steve Sundquist and Sam Hewitt from Ascend Recovery Centers and Port Charlotte Detox for a powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, and the challenges of the treatment world. Steve shares his personal battle with addiction, including a terrifying moment when he overdosed twice in a 24-hour period and was revived with 8 doses of Narcan. Now, with a renewed purpose in life, Steve dedicates himself to helping others through his work, finding joy in being a father and an entrepreneur. Both Steve and Danny discuss how helping others in their recovery not only supports those in need but also keeps them grounded in their own sobriety—offering humility and perspective. Sam, equally passionate about the work, thrives off the success stories that make their efforts worthwhile. Together, they discuss creating safe spaces for people to recover and the constant battle with insurance companies that often make it difficult to provide the proper treatment. Balancing the tough realities of the treatment world with their own mental health is crucial for both Steve and Sam. They share stories of hope and talk about their mission to bring treatment to places where it's scarce, providing essential resources to those in need. Tune in for an insightful episode filled with resilience, purpose, and a commitment to helping others recover.

In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, Danny sits down with Matt Strout for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation. The two share how they first met and how Matt has dedicated his life to helping kids thrive, taking them under his wing and helping them blossom into well-rounded individuals. A true community person at heart, Matt opens up about his passion for creating a safe space for those who lack strong support systems, driven by his own experience of having a solid foundation at home. Matt shares his personal journey of being an overweight kid, growing up with active parents—his father a competitive bodybuilder and Air Force veteran. While he resisted the fitness lifestyle in his early years, a shift happened when he turned 12, sparking his lifelong passion for health and fitness. From playing sports to becoming a certified trainer in high school, Matt’s path seemed clear until his life was turned upside down by a devastating genetic disease that left him legally blind. Matt reveals the emotional toll of his diagnosis, describing the deep depression he faced when he felt his dreams were crushed. But instead of giving up, he learned to adapt to his illness and channeled his negative energy into positive actions, including learning how to box as a legally blind man. Tune in to hear Matt’s powerful story of resilience, finding light in the darkness, and setting positive examples for others, even when life throws its toughest challenges.

In this episode of the HealingUs Podcast, Danny and Billy Stahnten dive into a heartfelt and inspiring conversation, confessing that they’re each other’s idols due to their shared admiration for helping others in the community. They discuss the importance of controlling your words, thoughts, and actions, and the simple goal of being a good person. Billy opens up about a life-changing moment when his wife found his father unresponsive due to undetected pneumonia. This health scare pushed Billy to shift his focus toward his own health—changing his eating habits, working out, and incorporating daily cold plunges, which have transformed his life. Together, Danny and Billy explore common challenges men face today, from balancing work and family to societal shifts, the opioid epidemic, and the mental health crisis. They also discuss emotional intelligence, the struggles of younger generations, and Danny’s personal journey—going to rehab at 21 and his passion for changing the behavioral health landscape in New Jersey. Billy, who is sober by choice, shares his thoughts on stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and getting comfortable with discomfort as a path to growth. Don’t miss this episode packed with personal stories, life lessons, and practical advice for men navigating today’s challenges.

In the latest episode of the HealingUs Podcast, we sit down with Allan Gressy, who shares his powerful story of resilience and redemption. Growing up in the tough streets of Queens, Allan faced a rough childhood filled with bullying and constant fights to survive life in the projects. His struggle with addiction began at a very young age, with home being far from a safe space. Allan became an active drug addict, and addiction followed him throughout his life, leading to an overdose in his 60s. His addiction strained relationships, including those with his children, ultimately causing him to lose contact with his grandchildren and end his marriage in divorce. However, Allan’s story takes a turn for the better. Despite being dealt a rough hand, including being on dialysis, he turned his life around, achieving sobriety and dedicating himself to helping others in his community. His story of survival, recovery, and giving back is truly inspiring. Tune in to hear how Allan overcame the odds, rebuilt his life, and found purpose in helping others find their path to recovery.

In this enlightening episode, we speak with Angela Teeple, a seasoned teacher and coach with 23 years of experience. Angela, a child athlete raised through addiction, has transformed her life into one of motivation and inspiration as a life coach, author, and TEDx speaker. She discusses her personal struggles with mental health, including panic attacks and spirals, and how these challenges shaped her journey. Angela also shares insights about her non-profit, All In Athletes, and her podcast, "Igniting Change, Inspiring Lives"showcasing her commitment to empowering others. Subscribe now for more inspiring stories from HealingUS!

In this powerful episode, we welcome Ryan Zofay, founder of We Level Up, and Stephen Reil, Business Development Officer. Discover their mission to transform lives through innovative addiction recovery and mental health programs. They share exciting plans for expansion, including Medicaid programs, and the potential for collaborative conferences. Ryan and Stephen's personal stories and dedication shine through, offering hope and inspiration. Stay connected via @ryan.zofay on Instagram and visit welevelup.com & healingus.com for more. Subscribe now for more impactful episodes from HealingUS!

Join us for a captivating episode of the HealingUs Podcast featuring world-renowned EDM DJ ZAXX. In this episode, ZAXX takes us on a journey through his childhood stardom in EDM music and opens up about his addictive personality. He shares his experience of being thrust into an inappropriate adult setting as a teenager and the challenges he faced along the way. ZAXX discusses pivotal moments in his career, such as Hardwell playing his remix and being discovered by Martin Garrix and signed by Tiësto's team. He reveals personal struggles, including dropping out of high school and coping with panic attacks and nervous breakdowns. ZAXX shares insights into seeking validation from others and developing self-coping mechanisms. He also discusses the importance of support systems, removing oneself from toxic environments, and giving back to the community as an EMT, helping people at their lowest points. Join us as we explore ZAXX's journey and the resilience that has defined his path to success.

Dive into a heartfelt conversation on the HealingUs Podcast with the inspiring Sue Miller. In this episode, Sue opens up about her journey, discussing topics ranging from suicide and feelings of not fitting in to the impact of hereditary mental diseases on family dynamics. Sue shares her insights on setting healthy boundaries and overcoming false friendship narratives, as well as her perspective on recovery mindset and midlife mental health concerns. She candidly discusses her battles with depression, the challenges of being a caretaker, and the importance of self-reflection. Sue also sheds light on the stigmas surrounding mental health and the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as her personal experiences with weight loss and its impact on recovery. Join us as we explore Sue's journey to recovery and the profound impact it has had on her family and her life.

Step into the world of music and recovery with the latest episode of the HealingUs Podcast, featuring the legendary Michael Alago. From growing up in Brooklyn to discovering Metallica, Michael shares how music shaped his childhood and career. He opens up about how his job elevated his addiction and how addiction eventually forced his company to intervene and send him to rehab. Michael candidly discusses his initial reluctance to stop drinking, his struggles with relapse, and the impact of wasting syndrome on his mental health. He reflects on a pivotal moment in his recovery when a few simple words changed his life forever: "You don't have to do this anymore." Join us as we explore Michael's journey to sobriety and his deep sense of gratitude for the life he leads today.

Join us for an enlightening conversation on the HealingUs Podcast with Dr. Ed Ratush, founder of SoHo MD. In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of psychiatry and the study of the human mind. Dr. Ratush shares insights on the importance of humility in treatment and the value of creating honest relationships to find the best treatment for patients. We discuss the challenges faced by the behavioral health industry and the role of mindfulness techniques in gauging quality of life. Dr. Ratush also explores the use of technology in the recovery process and shares his vision for the future of AI in psychiatry. Join us as we delve into the world of recovery and treatment with Dr. Ed Ratush.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the latest episode of the HealingUs Podcast, featuring New Jersey's own Bill Spadea. In this episode, we delve into the pressing mental health issues facing New Jersey, including the rise of misconduct in the behavioral health field and the need for governmental reforms. Bill shares insights on ADHD in children, highlighting the importance of allowing kids to be kids and avoiding the creation of medicated patients for life. We also discuss the impact of COVID-19 on children's learning and isolation, as well as the concerning rise in suicide rates post-lockdowns. Bill sheds light on the challenges faced by parents during the pandemic and the skyrocketing costs of health insurance. Additionally, we explore the 5150 law in New Jersey and the stigma surrounding government and mental health treatment. Join us as we discuss the urgent need for reallocating government funds to better support the mental health space in New Jersey.

Ashley is joined by CFC’s very own and previous guest on the podcast Kim Ciccone’s family. Her mother, Christine and sister, Stephanie sit down with Ashley to talk about a family’s perspective of addiction. Ashley peels back the layers of the onions with her own personal experiences of both of her brothers struggles with addiction and Christine’s other daughter, Kim.

Ashley is joined by Frank Salage, father of 2, Relevance Behavioral Health Alumni and current CFC member. Frank is an incredibly hard working man celebrating a year of sobriety, and working to provide for his family. He’s overcome battles with alcohol and drug addiction and fought so hard to find his sobriety. His long journey to sobriety is celebrated by his desire to help others find their path and live a sober life.

Ashley sits down with Zachary Peele, the men’s manager of one of HealingUS Communities Sober Living Houses. Zachary talks about love & relationships in recovery, finding your faith and healing through religion & spirituality. Reforming his life and finding love, while him & his wife are both in recovery and started their journey to create a family and break the cycle of addiction and mental health issues.

In this episode, Ashley introduces Jessica Goense, we cover her journey of being a former addict & criminal who faced incarceration with adversity and turned her life around living on the straight and narrow, with her new-found sobriety & working the problems and being a single mother. She dives deep into love, addiction, relationships, and motherhood while navigating sobriety, tune in to listen to her & Ashley cover all topics of Love & Relationships in Recovery.

In this episode, we introduce CFC’s very own Kim Ciccone, a jack of all trades if you will. She’s a survivor of Domestic Violence and in recovery from Addiction & PMTS. Kim was a patient at Relevance Behavioral Health in 2018 and joined us at CFC once she was successfully in recovery. She’s been blessed with a renewed outlook on life and is now the marketer for CFC. Dive in deep with Ashley & Kim to hear our first conversation on some hard-to-hear topics.