Life Chats With Friends
by Antonio Stephens
Hi, I'm Antonio Stephens and I'm on a mission to cultivate love and wellness in the face of life's challenges. This endeavor is particularly dedicated to individuals and professionals in high-stress industries — like me — who are navigating diverse dimensions. Life Chats With Friends' is more than a podcast; it's your friendly guide to self-discovery and living authentically. Join me as we explore different paths to wellness with insightful guests, sharing stories to inspire you to shine your brightest.
Episodes
-
Beyond the Bounce Back: Rethinking Resilience with Dr. Andrea Holman
We’re told that resilience is about pushing through, bouncing back, and keeping it moving. But what if that narrative is incomplete — or even harmful? In this powerful live conversation, Dr. Andrea Holman joins Antonio on the Sip & Chat stage to challenge everything we think we know about...
-
Pause, Reflect, Reconnect — A Journaling Workshop with Dr. Hava Rose
What happens when we give ourselves permission to pause? In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Hava Rose — Chief Wellness Officer and creator of The Pause Experience — for a deeply grounding conversation and practice on the power of journaling, presence, and inner connection at our…
more -
Sip & Chat Sound Bath Replay: Grounding with Desiree Vazquez
This special replay brings you into the calming atmosphere of Sip & Chat, by Life Chats With Friends, with a restorative sound bath and grounding experience led by Desiree Vazquez, our Certified Holistic Health Practitioner. In this session, you’ll be guided through breathwork, visualization, and...
-
Unplugging to Reconnect: A Conversation with Becky Tahel
In this enlightening episode of Life Chats with Friends, host Antonio Stephens sits down with Becky Tahel, Head of Brand & Marketing for Global Day of Unplugging. They delve into the significance of disconnecting from digital devices to foster genuine human connections and combat the modern...
-
The Space That Holds Us: Sound, Stillness, and Community with Desiree Vázquez
In this special Sip & Chat spotlight, we sit down with Desiree Vázquez, a holistic health and sound healing practitioner who brings deep wisdom, grounding energy, and a heart for healing into every space she holds. As one of our featured facilitators for Sip & Chat, Desiree joins us to explore…
more -
How to Reclaim Your Mental Health in a World That Won’t Slow Down with Dr. Andrea Holman
What if resilience isn’t about pushing through but about learning when to pause? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Andrea Holman joins Antonio Stephens to challenge the biggest misconceptions about resilience and mental health in a world that glorifies being ‘always on.’ Together, they explore…
more -
Pause to Heal and Build Resilience with Dr. Hava Rose
In this episode of Life Chats with Friends, Dr. Hava Rose joins Antonio Stephens to explore how unprocessed emotions manifest in the body, the science behind trauma retention, and how mindfulness and journaling can help regulate our nervous system and promote healing. 🌿 Key Topics & Timestamps:...
-
A Year in Review on Resilience with Antonio Stephens
As the year comes to a close, our host, Antonio Stephens, takes a moment to reflect on the biggest lessons he’s learned about resilience, adaptability, courage, and growth. From navigating major life changes to finding courage in tough decisions, Antonio shares his personal journey and offers...
-
Navigating Family Dynamics During the Holidays with Laman Ben-Trahoret
The holidays are often celebrated as a time of gratitude and togetherness, but they can also come with unique challenges, especially when it comes to family dynamics. In this thoughtful and reflective episode, Laman Ben-Trahoret, a wellness expert, shares his wisdom on the ongoing act of finding...
-
Bridging Divides: Christina Glennon on Empathy in a Polarized World
Join us as we dive into a timely conversation with Christina Glennon, a leader in inclusion and belonging, who shares powerful insights on finding common ground and fostering understanding—especially in the tense aftermath of an election. Christina talks about the transformative power of empathy...
-
Coming Out and Mental Health
In this special episode, Antonio reflects on their personal journey of coming out and the mental health challenges they faced along the way. Tying together World Mental Health Day and National Coming Out Day, this conversation explores the deep connection between identity, acceptance, and...
-
Letting Go of Old Identities for Growth with Antonio Stephens
In this episode of Life Chats with Friends, host Antonio Stephens opens up about his personal journey through the worlds of rowing and bodybuilding, two passions that once defined his life. Antonio reflects on the emotional challenges of stepping away from these identities and how letting go led…
more -
How to Turn Adversity into Opportunity with Gareth Whalley
In this conversation, Antonio Stephens interviews Gareth Whalley about turning setbacks into opportunities. Gareth shares his personal experiences of growing up as a queer individual in a working-class environment and how these experiences shaped his worldview. He also discusses the setback he...
-
Balancing the Polls and Your Peace with Dr. Hava Rose
In this episode of Life Chats with Friends, host Antonio Stephens is joined by Dr. Hava Rose, Chief Wellness Officer, pause.Experience to discuss finding inner peace amidst global crises and political divide. They emphasize the importance of connection, self-reflection and self-care in navigating...
-
Belonging & Growth in the LGBTQIA+ Community with Diego Gonzalez-Zuniga
In this episode, Antonio Stephens and Diego Gonzalez-Zuniga, a fashion influencer and wellness advocate discuss the importance of authenticity and building authentic relationships within the LGBTQIA+ community. They explore the significance of cultivating meaningful connections, both online and...
-
Mental Health Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Andrea Holman
In this episode, Dr. Andrea Holman, formerly a psychology professor at Huston-Tillotson University and now a leader in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) at Lyra Health, joins host Antonio Stephens to explore the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly within the African...
-
Who Are We Beyond Our 9-5?
In this solo episode of Life Chats With Friends, host Antonio Stephens invites listeners to explore the multifaceted aspects of their identities beyond their 9-5 responsibilities. As spring blooms around us, Antonio reflects on the importance of pausing to acknowledge personal growth and renewal....
-
Navigating Identity, Privilege, Mental Health, and Spirituality in Society with Dr. Andrea Holman
In this episode, Dr. Andrea Holman, formerly a psychology professor at Huston-Tillotson University and now a leader in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) at Lyra Health, the foremost provider of workforce mental health benefits available to over 15 million people globally, joins...
-
Exploring Self-Discovery with Winston Thompson
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Winston Thompson, a visionary in the world of beauty, color and connection. With over a decade of experience as a master colorist, educator and creative consultant, Winston brings a unique blend of artistry, curiosity and compassion to the world of…
more -
Maillard Howell’s Guide to a Renewed You in the New Year
Join Antonio in this insightful episode as he introduces Maillard Howell, a distinguished wellness expert, former head of fitness at Reebok® and entrepreneur with a diverse background. Maillard shares his passion for guiding individuals toward wellness, particularly during the new year. The...
-
2023 Unwrapped: Antonio Stephens Reflects on a Year of Growth, Love, and Authentic Living
Welcome to a special year-in-review episode of 'Life Chats With Friends'! 🎉 Join me, Antonio Stephens, host of the show and wellness advocate, as I reflect on the incredible journey we've shared throughout 2023. Whether you're a first-time listener or a returning friend, thank you for being part...
-
Baring It All: The Art of Vulnerability with Bucky Mitchell
In this heartfelt episode of "Life Chats with Friends," your host Antonio Stephens welcomes Bucky Mitchell, a health and wellness guide, to explore the transformative power of vulnerability in the journey toward authenticity. Together, they embark on a deep and candid conversation, sharing…
more -
Embracing Change and Transformation with Laman Ben-Trajoret
Welcome to season 2 of Life Chats with Friends! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Laman Ben-Trajoret, a passionate wellness coach and entrepreneur, back on the show. Laman's dedication to holistic wellness and his mission to foster a healthier and more balanced world are truly inspiring....
-
(Re)defining a Relationship with God with Justin Borroto
In today’s episode, our guest is Justin Borroto. He is a Miami native who is passionate about love, spirituality, healing, justice, and yoga. He has previously worked as a high school math teacher, recruiter, and diversity, equity, and inclusion facilitator in Washington DC. Key Quotes…
more -
Temazcal Ritual with Larissa Sativa
In this episode, the guest speaker is Larissa Sativa, a practitioner of traditional healing practices and ceremonies. Larissa talks about her experiences with these practices and shares insights on the importance of intention and mindfulness in one's healing journey. Section 1: Traditional…
more -
Finding Your Light After Abuse
Jessica is a solo mom of two. She has spent the last five years redefining her life, finding passion and purpose after leaving an abusive marriage. Through years of deep inner work, self-discovery, exploration, and adventure; she has been able to build a life full of joy and authenticity. We…
more -
Tarot card reading and self-reflection with Jess Vaughn and Dale Fetterman
So much fun having Dale Fetterman and Jess Vaughn back to celebrate the one-year inception and anniversary of Life Chats With Friends. A little over a year ago, sitting in a living room in Vail, Colorado, this show was born. Jess facilities a live tarot card reading for Dale, Antonio and herself....
-
Year-end Kiki with Greggory Marcus and Stephen Zepecki
Back again on air with Greggory Marcus and Stephen Zepecki for a year-end round-up and check-in. We self-reflect and comment on current events and issues ranging from community, sexual health, the James Webb telescope and our recent Friendsgiving dinner. Many thanks as always for listening. Greg,...
-
Antonio with Goldie Goldschmidt on Soulmates and Friendships
What is a soulmate or a true friend and what purpose do they serve in our lives? Such a beautiful conversation. This week I was joined by a friend of 10 years and counting to discuss friendships and soulmates. Goldie Goldschmidt is an artist, philosopher of thought, dancer, teacher, and overall...
-
Antonio with Laman Ben-Trahoret and Charles Iantorno on The System and What We Can Do to Drive Change
What kind of system (society) are we living in and are you aware of it? As we continue to collectively engage in moments and lead lives that bring about the change we want to see in our world, understanding how it all works is a great first step. There are many benefits of being part of a system...
-
Antonio with John Kim (They/Them) on Self-Discovery
Took a break from this project as I went through an intense period of change, transformation and #selfdiscovery. I’m excited to be back and to have had the opportunity to sit down with John Kim (They/Them), a Health and Mindfulness Coach, to dive deep into the experience of self-discovery. We...
-
Finding Your Groove w/ Natasha Filipov
Many of us often stumble across questions and thoughts that deal with our life’s purpose and what we were meant to do with our time here. Finding your groove and aligning #passion and #purpose can be daunting and can come with many challenges. Couldn’t think of anyone better to tackle this topic...
-
What does it mean to be unapologetic? With Greggory Marcus and Stephen Zepecki
What does it mean to be unapologetic? This has been one of my favorite discussions so far. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Greggory Marcus, Ballroom Legend and Healthcare Consultant and Stephen Zepecki, Educator and Non-Profit Consultant to dive deep into this topic. I have seen and have...
-
The Black Queer Experience with Laman Ben-Trahoret
In honor of Pride, I'm so excited to open up, share more and let you into my lived experience as a Queer Black man – a part of my identity that has brought me great shame for years that I'm finally beginning to relinquish and embrace as I unfold. A few years ago, Laman Ben-Trahoret and I met in...
-
Practicing self-love and it's importance w/ Caren Plummer
Took a short break from this project to practice exactly this, while I navigated a challenging professional development experience and wanted to bring you all behind that. I'm super excited to have Caren Plummer on the show to share some real-life examples and stories of what self-love looks…
more -
Social wellness in todays world
Adele Chee and I, tackle the importance of maintaining your social well-being in today's world for the third part of our 5 part series where we explore 7 dimensions of our wellbeing. Positive social habits can help you build support systems and stay healthier mentally and physically. We share…
more -
7 Dimensions of our wellbeing with Adele Chee (Pt. 2 - Physical Wellness)
This week, I picked up the conversation exploring 7 dimensions of our well-being with Adele Chee, a Career Transition Coach and Mentor, discussing and connecting the importance of our Physical Wellness to all the other dimensions of our well-being. We share some practical tips and insights that…
more -
7 Dimensions of our wellbeing w/ Adele Chee (Pt. 1 - Emotional and Mental Wellness)
Such a blast finally getting to have and speak with Adele Chee, a Career Transition Coach and Mentor from the UK, on Life Chats with Friends. Over the course of the next 4 weeks, we'll dive in and explore 7 dimensions of our wellbeing. For each dimension, we'll define them, share our commitment…
more -
Developing healthy habits and discipline with Jess Falborn (Pt.2)
This is part 2. of a conversation I had last week with Jess Falborn, a Women's Physique athlete. Last week, we explored the mindset of an athlete. This week, we'll share tips and insights on how you can develop healthy and sustainable habits and discipline. We dive into things such the need for...
-
Exploring the mindset of an athlete (Pt. 1)
Jess Falborn, Fitness Entrepreneur and Women's Physique athlete, joins me for a conversation where we explore the mindset of an athlete. We dive into her career change, discuss some of the qualities you develop through athletics and explore some of the challenges, blind spots and what you learn...
-
Ep.2 - Living life through structure with Chris Melancon
This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Chis Melancon, my coach and the person that’s been holding me accountable to all my health and wellness goals this year. In this episode we discuss and dive into what it means to live your life through structure and how your physical and mental…
more -
Life chats with friends - #1 holistic wellness and balance with Dale Fetterman and Jess Vaughan
Welcome to the very first episode of Life Chats With Friends! In this episode Antonio sit's down with two of his close friends in the fitness industry - Dale Fetterman and Jess Vaughan. They discuss and dive into what it means to approach health and wellness holistically and share some practical...
About this show
Hi, I'm Antonio Stephens and I'm on a mission to cultivate love and wellness in the face of life's challenges. This endeavor is particularly dedicated to individuals and professionals in high-stress industries — like me — who are navigating diverse dimensions. Life Chats With Friends' is more than a podcast; it's your friendly guide to self-discovery and living authentically. Join me as we explore different paths to wellness with insightful guests, sharing stories to inspire you to shine your brightest.
Hosted by
Antonio Stephens