Conversations With Intent

Motherhood isn’t always picture-perfect—and for many women, the journey is filled with silent struggles that go unseen and undiscussed.In this deeply personal episode of Conversations with Intent, Arden O’Connor speaks with Lindsay Halliday, a clinical case manager and mother of three, about her emotional path through infertility, miscarriage, and postpartum depression (PPD). Lindsay opens up about the highs and lows of becoming a parent—sharing her experience with fertility tracking, invasive testing, and a devastating misdiagnosis, all while trying to remain hopeful.She also bravely discusses her postpartum depression, a condition she didn’t recognize at first despite her background in mental health. Thanks to a routine screening at her 8-week postpartum visit, she was able to get the help she needed—and later took proactive steps to protect her mental health before the birth of her twins.This episode challenges the myth of "perfect motherhood" and encourages honest, supportive conversations about maternal mental health and the real-life challenges behind growing a family.Topics Covered:The emotional impact of miscarriage and infertilityNavigating pregnancy after lossRecognizing and treating postpartum depression (PPD)The importance of mental health screenings for new momsProactive care: antidepressants before and after deliveryBreaking the silence around motherhood and mental healthResources & Links:Website: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalLinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalArden O’Connor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arden-o-connor-87715b/Lindsay Halliday LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-halliday-80b9a632/

What does it really take to heal—not just survive?In this inspiring episode of Conversations with Intent, host Diana Clark speaks with Dr. Raghu Appasani, a practicing psychiatrist and thought leader in integrative mental health, about his radically human approach to healing the mind and body.Through his concierge psychiatry model, Dr. Appasani steps outside traditional office settings—meeting patients where they are, from their homes to farmers markets—to address the root causes of mental distress. He shares how lifestyle, nutrition, trauma, autoimmune conditions, and community all play a role in emotional and cognitive well-being.With a background shaped by his own struggles with anxiety and depression, Dr. Appasani works with a diverse population, including young adults, creatives, and professionals, to foster long-term habit change and self-empowered healing. This episode reframes what mental health care can—and should—look like.Topics Covered:The difference between integrative and traditional psychiatryWhy connection is a core pillar of mental wellnessHealing from anxiety, depression, trauma, and addictionIdentifying root causes vs. managing symptomsConcierge psychiatry and the future of patient careClean living, mindfulness, and nutrition as clinical toolsResources & Links:Intent Clinical: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalLinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalDiana Clark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-clark-jd-ma-02128031/Dr. Raghu Appasani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raghuappasani/

What if it’s not the concussions, but the unnoticed hits to the head that cause the most damage?In this episode of Conversations with Intent, host Arden O’Connor speaks with Dr. Chris Nowinski, co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, Harvard graduate, and former WWE star. After suffering multiple head injuries in football and wrestling, Dr. Nowinski was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome and became a leading voice in the fight to protect brain health.He discusses the often-misunderstood condition Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and explains how subclinical brain trauma—impacts that don’t cause immediate symptoms—can accumulate and lead to long-term cognitive damage. Dr. Nowinski also reflects on the tough decisions families face when kids play high-risk sports like football, hockey, and soccer, and advocates for youth safety in athletics.Listeners will learn how to recognize early signs of concussion or CTE, the importance of brain health education, and the hope offered by emerging technologies for diagnosis and recovery.Topics Covered:What causes CTE and how it differs from concussionsDr. Nowinski’s journey from WWE to brain health advocacyThe dangers of subclinical traumatic brain injuryHow parents can make informed decisions about youth sportsStrategies to talk to a loved one about concussion risksPromising new tools for diagnosing and treating CTEResources & Links:Intent Clinical: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalLinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalArden O’Connor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arden-o-connor-87715b/Concussion Legacy Foundation: https://concussionfoundation.org

When is it time to go to therapy—and how much can one person really change a family system?In this episode of Conversations with Intent, Diana Clark speaks with Eden Garcia Bis, CEO of Airport Marina Counseling Services, about the powerful ripple effects of family therapy. Together, they explore the critical differences between individual therapy vs. family therapy, and why even one person seeking help can initiate meaningful transformation across the entire family.Eden explains how family therapy focuses on communication patterns, roles, and relationship dynamics—offering insight into how to shift long-standing issues at the root. Whether it's navigating divorce, addiction, trauma, or simply wanting to improve how your family connects, this episode provides actionable insights, clinical guidance, and hope for healing.If you're curious about therapy, or wondering whether your family could benefit from support, this conversation breaks it all down with compassion and clarity.Topics Covered:When to seek family therapy vs. individual therapyHow one person's change can shift an entire family systemCommon reasons families start therapy (divorce, addiction, trauma, conflict)Key elements of successful family therapyThe importance of working with a licensed family therapistLong-term benefits: improved communication, empathy, reduced anxiety/depression, and stronger family bondsKey Takeaways:Family therapy looks at patterns and interactions, not just symptomsIt only takes one motivated family member to create a ripple effect of changeA trained therapist ensures every voice is heard, even in conflictFinding the right therapist requires research, interviews, and ensuring they have family-specific trainingLINKS:Email:  [email protected] URL: intentclinical.comCompany IG: instagram.com/intentclinicalCompany FB: facebook.com/intentclinicalCompany LI: linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalArden O’Connor LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arden-o-connor-87715b/Eden Garcia-Balis LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eden-garcia-balis-038843b/

In a powerful episode of "Conversations with Intent," host Diana Clark engages in a deeply moving dialogue with Dan Hogan, a man uniquely equipped to offer insights on living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's and Lewy body disease. Dan recounts the moment he received his devastating diagnosis, describing feelings of shock, depression, and isolation. A 2022 stroke during a squash tournament did not hold him back, illustrating his resilient spirit. Diana and Dan discuss his journey, which spans over a decade, starting with initial concerns about memory loss in 2010, leading to his eventual diagnosis.Dan's thoughtful reflections reveal a man transformed by adversity, choosing to find purpose and hope in the face of his condition. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimism and staying active both cognitively and physically. His involvement with the Alzheimer's Association and other dementia-related groups showcases his commitment to breaking the stigma around dementia and providing support to others navigating similar journeys. He shares practical advice, including the importance of having a legal and medical plan in place and the therapeutic value of community engagement and remaining purpose-driven.Chapters:00:00 Meet Dan Hogan: A Remarkable Journey01:13 The Diagnosis: A Life-Changing Moment03:14 The Long Road to Diagnosis05:52 Finding Purpose Amidst Struggle07:19 Living with Alzheimer's: Daily Life and Activities16:00 Legal and Practical Preparations20:50 Family Reactions and Support32:54 Hope and Joy: Finding Light in Dark Times35:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Supporting someone with an eating disorder requires more than good intentions—it takes awareness, compassion, and access to the right resources. In this episode of Conversations with Intent, host Arden O'Connor is joined by Priya James, Associate Director of Community Engagement at the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA).Priya shares her personal journey and professional insights on eating disorders and disordered eating, offering a powerful look at early warning signs, how to speak to loved ones without shame, and why specialized care is so essential. She also discusses the impact of media on body image, the importance of using compassionate language, and how communities can rally around those struggling.Whether you’re concerned about a friend, navigating your own recovery, or want to better understand the complexities of eating disorders, this episode offers practical advice, hopeful perspectives, and trusted resources.Learn more at: www.nationaleatingdisorders.orgTopics Covered:How to recognize early signs of eating disordersWhat supportive conversations look and sound likeThe importance of trauma-informed and specialized careThe impact of media and cultural messaging on body imageResources and community-based tools for support and recoveryResources & Links:Website: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalLinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalArden O'Connor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arden-o-connor-87715b/Priya James LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-james-1694a214/National Eating Disorders Association: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

What happens when those who care for everyone else are left without support? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Intent, host Diana Clark speaks with Dr. Meenal Viz, a frontline NHS doctor who served during the earliest and most uncertain days of the COVID-19 pandemic—while pregnant.Dr. Viz opens up about working in an overwhelmed healthcare system, balancing personal risk with professional duty, and grieving the devastating loss of colleagues—including a pregnant nurse just down the street. She shares the emotional toll of being a caregiver during a crisis, her enduring love for medicine, and her call to action for systemic change and mental health support for healthcare professionals.This deeply moving conversation is for anyone who’s ever asked: who takes care of the caregivers?Topics Covered:Life on the frontlines during the early days of COVID-19The emotional and psychological toll on healthcare workersCaring for others while navigating personal riskThe loss of a fellow pregnant frontline nurseMental health, grief, and advocacy in medicineWhat support systems caregivers truly needResources & Links:Website: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalLinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalDiana Clark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-clark-jd-ma-02128031/Dr. Meenal Viz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-meenal-viz-aa0314236/Dr. Meenal Viz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmeenalvizDr. Meenal Viz X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/drmeenalviz

 Anxiety is everywhere—from our newsfeeds to our daily routines—and for many, it’s becoming harder to stay grounded in a world that feels anything but stable. In this timely episode of Conversations with Intent, host Diana Clark sits down with Michelle Massi, LMFT, to explore practical, real-world strategies for managing anxiety in the midst of constant stress and uncertainty.Michelle shares her clinical perspective on the root causes of anxiety in today’s hyperconnected world and offers actionable tools to help you stay present, regulate emotions, and create space for calm—even when life feels overwhelming.Whether you’re struggling with burnout, battling persistent anxiety, or simply seeking ways to take better care of your mental health, this episode offers insight, compassion, and clarity to help you move forward with intention.Topics Covered:Understanding how modern life fuels anxietyGrounding techniques and daily rituals for emotional balanceThe impact of social media and global stress on mental healthHow to build resilience and self-regulation skillsWhen to seek support—and how to do it without shameResources & Links:Visit Intent ClinicalEmail the showFollow on InstagramFollow on FacebookConnect on LinkedInDiana Clark on LinkedIn

Caring for an aging parent is never easy—especially when dementia enters the picture. In this deeply moving episode of Conversations with Intent, Diana Clark is joined by Denine Gentilella, who opens up about her family’s journey as caregivers for their fiercely independent mother after signs of dementia began to emerge.Denine shares the emotional and practical decisions she and her brothers faced as they shifted from supportive children to full-time caregivers. This episode is a candid and compassionate look at the realities of dementia caregiving, from recognizing early symptoms to making tough calls about intervention and care.Whether you’re just beginning to notice changes in a loved one or already navigating full-time caregiving, this conversation offers insight, solidarity, and guidance for families learning how to care with intention.Topics Covered:Early signs of dementia in aging parentsHow to know when to step in as a caregiverThe emotional toll and family dynamics of caregivingMaking difficult decisions while honoring your parent’s dignityResources, support, and tips for navigating the dementia journeyResources & Links:Visit Intent ClinicalEmail the showFollow on InstagramFollow on FacebookConnect on LinkedInDiana Clark on LinkedIn

In the fourth episode of Conversations with Intent, host Diana Clark sits down with Brittney Crabtree from Moms Talk Autism to explore the emotional landscape of parenting a child on the spectrum.Together, they discuss the real challenges parents face—from navigating diagnoses to finding meaningful community and support. Brittney shares her personal story as a mother and advocate, shedding light on how connection and honest conversations can break down the stigma and isolation often felt by families of autistic children.Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or advocate, this episode offers a compassionate and empowering look into the world of autism parenting and how support systems can make all the difference.Topics Covered:The emotional realities of parenting a child with autismHow community and support groups create connectionThe role of honest, stigma-free conversationsResources and strategies for families navigating autismAdvocacy, empowerment, and finding your voice as a parentResources & Links:Visit Intent ClinicalEmail the showFollow on InstagramFollow on FacebookConnect on LinkedInDiana Clark on LinkedInMoms Talk Autism on Instagram 

What happens when a routine prescription turns into a life-altering addiction? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Intent, Dr. Jody Adewale shares his deeply personal story of opioid addiction following a college football injury—and how he found his way back to healing and purpose.Now a practicing clinical psychologist, Dr. Adewale is using his experience to help others break free from dependency. He joins Diana Clark to discuss the growing sober-curious movement, unpacking what it means to question your relationship with substances and explore a life of greater clarity, intention, and self-awareness.Whether you're in recovery, sober-curious, or supporting someone on their journey, this conversation offers valuable insight into addiction, recovery, and the power of living with intention.Topics Covered:What it means to be sober-curiousDr. Adewale’s personal journey with opioid addiction and recoveryThe importance of redefining sobrietyHow curiosity and awareness can shift your relationship with substancesTools for building a life rooted in clarity and purposeResources & Links:Website: https://intentclinical.comEmail: [email protected] Clinical Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinicalIntent Clinical Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinicalIntent Clinical LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinicalDiana Clark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-clark-jd-ma-02128031/Dr. Jody Adewale LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jody-adewale-42630a16/Dr. Jody Adewale on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/jody-joshua-adewale-pasadena-ca/278202

In this episode of Conversations with Intent, Diana Clark speaks with renowned adolescent medicine expert Dr. Ellen Rome to unpack the complex and often misunderstood world of eating disorders. Together, they explore how families and loved ones can provide meaningful support to someone struggling, and why language, awareness, and empathy are essential in the path to recovery.With decades of clinical experience, Dr. Rome offers practical, compassionate guidance for navigating the fear and confusion that often accompanies eating disorders. From recognizing early signs to avoiding common pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand how to support recovery with intention.Topics Covered:What an eating disorder really is (and what it isn’t)How families and friends can be powerful allies in healingThe danger of diet culture and body image mythsApproaching support with empathy and without shameTools to foster long-term recovery and resilienceResources & Links:Learn more about Intent Clinical: intentclinical.comConnect with Diana Clark: LinkedInFollow Intent Clinical: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInFollow Cleveland Clinic Children’s: Instagram | X (formerly Twitter): @CleClinicKidsQuestions or feedback? Email us at [email protected]

In the first episode of Conversations with Intent, host Arden O’Connor speaks with Diana Clark about her personal journey with bipolar disorder, the challenges of masking, and the transformative power of authenticity.Diana shares her experiences navigating the complexities of bipolar disorder, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the struggle of presenting a version of herself that society expects. She and Arden discuss the emotional toll of masking, the importance of seeking help, and how community support can be a vital part of the healing process.This episode is for anyone who has experienced bipolar disorder, loves someone who has, or wants to learn more about the realities of living with it. The conversation aims to break the stigma, provide support, and remind listeners that they are not alone.Topics Covered:Understanding bipolar disorder and its impactThe mental and emotional cost of maskingThe role of stigma in mental health strugglesThe importance of community and supportHow authenticity can be a tool for healingResources & Links:Learn more about Intent Clinical: intentclinical.comConnect with Arden O’Connor: Facebook | LinkedInConnect with Diana Clark: LinkedInFollow Intent Clinical: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInHave thoughts or experiences to share? Email us at [email protected] & Subscribe:Subscribe to Conversations with Intent on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on upcoming episodes.