Zen Gem

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, host Carolina reflects on her journey as a solo podcaster, sharing insights on self-care, personal growth, and the power of embracing change. She highlights the importance of somatic healing and compassion, encouraging listeners to remain open to new experiences and cultivate a mindset of abundance and positivity.

Join host Carolina Pelletier on the Zen Gem podcast as she delves into her journey as a fitness professional and reflects on seven years of marriage. Discover insights on corrective exercise, the importance of movement for well-being, and the lessons learned in marriage, including self-awareness, communication, and maintaining individuality within a partnership.

In this mini episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, Carolina shares a heartfelt message about authenticity, especially as the holiday season approaches. Between parties, family gatherings, and social events, it’s easy to feel anxious, self-conscious, or like you need to “impress” others. Carolina reminds listeners that true confidence comes from embracing who you are at your core—beyond your clothes, career, or social status.She shares personal stories about connecting with others through genuine interests, building social confidence like a muscle, and stepping into spaces fully as yourself. This episode is an encouraging reminder to let go of the need to please, embrace your quirks, and lead with kindness, compassion, and authenticity this holiday season.

In this deeply honest and insightful episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, Carolina shares an update on her journey—from zipper-line metaphors to nervous system regulation, from faith to meditation, and everything in between. She opens up about being a DINK (dual income, no kids), how childhood experiences shape adulthood, and what it really means to heal emotional “open wounds” rather than let life keep pouring acetone on them.Carolina explores how meditation became her inner auditor, how faith gave her boundaries and direction, and how both practices helped her break long-held patterns of panic, fear, and reactivity. She also sheds light on different forms of meditation—from Vipasana to pranayama to walking meditations—and reminds listeners that meditation doesn’t have to look like anything in particular to work.This episode is a compassionate invitation to slow down, self-regulate, and reconnect with your highest self… one breath, one intention, one moment at a time.

Dive into the transformative journey of self-parenting with Zen Gem. Explore how building strong foundations in relationships can enhance personal growth and emotional support. Learn to recognize personal faults and establish self-care rules for a healthier, more fulfilling life.  https://cocolina.yoga/

As the holidays approach and life speeds up, Carolina shares her secrets for staying centered, calm, and true to yourself through the busiest time of year. Between parties, school breaks, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters—your well-being.In this warm and relatable episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, Carolina opens up about her own non-negotiables: sleep, hydration, nutrition, movement, and quality time with loved ones (and her five pets!). She explores how sticking to the basics keeps us grounded, even when routines get disrupted, and how gratitude can transform stress into peace.Whether you’re juggling gift lists or traffic jams, this episode will remind you to slow down, stay mindful, and fill your own cup before pouring into others.Key Takeaways:Stick to your non-negotiables: sleep, water, movement, and good food.Gratitude is the anchor that keeps you present through chaos.Slowing down helps you show up with more joy and intention.You can’t pour from an empty cup—self-care isn’t selfish.Consistency in small habits keeps your energy balanced year-round.

As the season changes and the snowbirds return, Carolina dives into the art of staying calm, kind, and grounded when life (and traffic) gets hectic. From construction zones and merging lanes to busy restaurants and shifting routines, she unpacks how we can keep our peace—even when others seem to lose theirs.Blending humor, honesty, and heartfelt reflection, Carolina explores what it means to regulate your nervous system, find grace in frustration, and choose kindness in a world that often feels rushed and reactive.Tune in to this Zen Gem for a reminder that the energy you put out can transform not only your day—but everyone around you.

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, Carolina delves into the transformative power of solitude. Discover how embracing alone time can lead to personal growth, creativity, and mindfulness. Through personal stories and insights, Carolina encourages listeners to slow down, reflect, and connect with their inner selves. Tune in to explore the beauty of solitude and the art of mindful breathing.

In this heartfelt episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, host Carolina dives deep into the emotional landscape of loneliness, self-reflection, and healing. Sharing her journey as a single mother of five, she explores how moments of isolation can transform into powerful opportunities for self-discovery and independence. Carolina opens up about overcoming codependency, managing anxiety and depression, and learning to feel at home within herself.This episode is an invitation to see solitude not as emptiness—but as a sacred space for growth, restoration, and self-love.

In this solo episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, Carolina reflects on an unexpected teacher in her self-growth journey—Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer. What starts as a fascination with animal behavior becomes a deep exploration of energy, leadership, and human connection. Carolina draws powerful parallels between dog training and emotional awareness, showing how calm confidence, structure, and self-assured energy shape not only how we lead our pets—but how we lead ourselves.From the psychology of behavior to the art of embodying strength, this episode reminds us that true confidence isn’t about control—it’s about presence, energy, and trust.

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, host Carolina Pelletier explores the transformative effects of removing television from her home. Discover how this change has reshaped her family dynamics, boosted energy levels, and fostered personal growth. Carolina delves into the power of reflection, journaling, and creativity, while drawing insightful parallels between animal behavior and effective leadership in human relationships.

In this episode of the Zen Gem Podcast with Carolina P, licensed mental health professional and aerial arts enthusiast Crystal Smith joins the conversation to explore the transformative power of flow. Crystal shares her journey of turning pain into purpose, the role of aerial arts in her healing, and how mindfulness practices can elevate everyday life. Together, they discuss the importance of non-resistance, community, and embracing self-expression as tools for growth and wellbeing. This inspiring dialogue invites listeners to reconnect with their authentic selves, cultivate presence, and find joy in both movement and stillness.

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, host Carolina engages in a thought provoking conversation with Dr. Jason McCloskey, a human performance coach and healthcare polyspecialist. They explore the critical role of lifestyle determinants in health, the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses, and how functional medicine can address these challenges. Dr. McCloskey shares insights on the interconnectedness of health systems, the importance of patient-centered care, and the value of nutrition, rest, and recovery in achieving optimal health. Tune in to discover how health can be viewed as a currency for enriching life experiences.You can find Dr.McCloskey at the Neurological Institute in Boca On instagram @drjasonmccloskey

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, Carolina delves into her experiences as a fitness professional navigating burnout. She highlights the significance of non-negotiables in maintaining health and shares insights on nutrition, fitness, and personal growth. Listen in to learn how to identify your own non-negotiables for a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

Join Carolina on the Zen Gem podcast as she reflects on a transformative year filled with personal growth, inspiring guests, and the journey from co-hosting to solo podcasting. Discover insights on balancing Western and Eastern medicine, the importance of authenticity, and the power of embracing life's nonlinear path. Whether you're sipping a pumpkin latte or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers a heartfelt look at finding purpose and passion in every moment.

In this episode of the Zen Gem Podcast, host Carolina sits down with visionary multimedia artist, educator, and advocate Judith Rae to explore her remarkable journey of resilience, creativity, and empowerment. Raised between New York and Brazil, Judith shares how cultural identity, early challenges—including becoming a young mother at 13—and the transformative power of photography shaped her path as a storyteller.Through her work in photography, film, and spoken word, Judith emphasizes the importance of community engagement, cultural preservation, and self-discovery. The conversation highlights how adversity can spark creativity, how storytelling fosters connection, and why recognizing our worth is essential for growth and healing.Listeners will be inspired by Judith’s reflections on empowerment, creative expression, and the power of embracing one’s unique journey.

This week, Caralina sits down with Keidron, a soulful voice in the wellness and community space, to explore the journey of intention and self-discovery. Together, they reflect on how the paths we walk may look different, but often share common denominators—growth, healing, and the courage to be authentic.From personal lessons to universal truths, this conversation is a reminder that we are all connected in ways deeper than we often realize.

Alex is a transformational guide and plant medicine practitioner who supports individuals on the path of deep healing and inner mastery. His journey with Ayahuasca and other Amazonian plant medicines has helped him reconnect with his true essence—an experience he now helps others access through ceremony, integration, and personal mentorship.Alex’s approach blends grounded presence with spiritual depth, creating a safe and powerful space for healing, embodiment, and self-discovery.📧 Contact Alex: [email protected] 📲 Follow on Instagram: @tikkunhealingcenter

In this solo episode of Zen Gem with Carolina P, we unpack the viral Coldplay concert “kiss cam” scandal that shocked social media—and use it as a springboard to explore something much deeper: infidelity, moral values, and personal integrity.Carolina shares her personal reflections on betrayal, marriage, trust, and the small decisions that lead to big consequences. Drawing from her own experiences and upbringing, she asks the hard questions:When does cheating really begin?Can relationships recover from broken trust?Are we honoring our word—or just hoping not to get caught?She also opens up about the impact of infidelity in her own family and why integrity in our relationships matters more than ever. Whether you're married, dating, single, or healing—this episode invites you to pause and reflect on how we treat the people we love and what kind of standards we hold for ourselves.💎 “How you do one thing is how you do all things.”If this conversation resonates with you, share it, rate it, and leave a review! DM Carolina on IG @zenjempodcast or email [email protected] to join the conversation.

Corey Heyman is a wellness event producer, community builder, and beach yoga teacher based in Delray Beach, Florida. She’s the founder of Coco Market, a free monthly wellness event that has become a movement in South Florida’s conscious living scene. Since launching in January 2022, Corey has produced over 45 free events to connect with local vendors, explore healing modalities, and celebrate creativity, community, and holistic well-being.Originally from New York and now a proud Delray Beach resident for over a decade, Corey blends her background in sociology with a passion for movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. She was named Person of the Month by Atlantic Ave Magazine in January 2025 and delivered a keynote talk for Creative Mornings in 2024.Whether she’s teaching sunrise yoga by the ocean or curating vibrant markets, Corey’s work is all about bringing people together and making wellness accessible to all.You can email Corey at [email protected] her on instagram:@[email protected] for more news, updates, and events go to:Cocomarket.org

In this deeply personal episode of Zen Gem, host Carolina sits down with Sarah Menniti, LMHC—a licensed mental health counselor, Reiki master, and trauma-informed therapist—to explore what it truly means to heal.Together, they dive into the intersections of mental health, grief, nutrition, and spiritual practice. Sarah shares her own healing journey and discusses how modalities like EMDR, somatic parts work, nervous system regulation, and Reiki help guide clients back to wholeness. Through compassionate insight, Sarah emphasizes the importance of curiosity, emotional honesty, and honoring the body’s wisdom.Listeners will gain insight into:The role of nutrition in mental healthHow somatic therapy and parts work facilitate deeper healingRecognizing and addressing burnoutThe importance of boundaries and emotional self-careCreating safe spaces for grief and emotional expressionRooted in Polyvagal Theory and body-based practices, Sarah’s work invites us to reconnect to our own inner wisdom and shift from survival into thriving.Learn more about Sarah Menniti: Website: therapywithsm.com Instagram: @therapywithsm LinkedIn: Sarah Menniti Email: [email protected] you're navigating grief, looking to reconnect with your body, or simply curious about holistic healing, this episode offers powerful reflections on what it means to come home to yourself.

In this episode of Zen Gem with Carolina, we explore the intersection of physical therapy, movement, and self-discovery with special guest Matthew LaBosco—Peak Performance Coach, author, and founder of MovementOS.Matthew shares his personal journey from injury and frustration with traditional medicine to developing a holistic framework rooted in vitality, purpose, and resilience. Drawing on two decades of experience in movement science, behavioral psychology, and soft tissue therapy, he challenges the limitations of symptom-based care and invites us to redefine what it means to truly thrive.Topics include:The difference between health and vitalityHow unresolved trauma can manifest physicallyThe danger of "small lies" and societal mythsThe ethos of personal responsibility and growthHis new Pain-Free 45 program at Kaizen Pelvic WellnessMatthew's Health to Vitality™ model offers a powerful invitation to not just survive, but live with energy, intention, and integrity.Learn more: Website: matthewlabosco.com Program: TheMovementOS.com YouTube: @mattsvitalityprogram X/Twitter: @matthew_laboscoListen now and discover what it truly means to live a life rooted in vitality.

Tired of small talk that goes nowhere? This week, Carolina sits down with Jonathan Schneider, co-founder of The Kandor Company—a qualitative market research firm that helps global brands like Porsche and Microsoft understand the "why" behind human behavior.Jonathan, also a valued member of the Thrive Power Yoga community, shares his unique insights on fostering truly effective and engaging conversations in our daily lives. Discover why asking "what do you do?" might be the most common, yet least insightful, question. Learn techniques from a master interviewer on how to move beyond superficial exchanges, whether you're at a dinner party or meeting new people. Jonathan shares his personal mantra for listening, the power of asking "small questions that lead to big answers," and why avoiding "why" can open up deeper dialogue.Jonathan is the co-founder of The Candor Company (www.thecandorcompany.com), a boutique qualitative market research firm that works with the world’s leading companies to help them better understand their customers.Jonathan’s firm works with such clients as Porsche, Microsoft, Google, and P&G.  Walk down any aisle in your grocery store, peruse the shelves at Best Buy, or use social media, and you’re likely to encounter a product or service that Candor has had a hand in developing.Jonathan began his career in the advertising industry where he saw his first focus group and thought that the job looked like fun and seemed like something that he could do. He was right but it took him some time to get there with stops at Emory University in Atlanta for his MBA and a job in GE’s marketing research department along the way. In 2001 in Atlanta, he met his business partner, Liz Moore, and founded The Candor Company with her.Join us to uncover practical tips for breaking free from conversational ruts, navigating sensitive topics, and creating more authentic connections in a world often dominated by screens and surface-level interactions.

Megan Nelson is a teacher turned Feng Shui practitioner with a gift for tuning into the deeper connections between people and their spaces. She’s master certified in classical Feng Shui through the International Feng Shui School in Ireland and is also a 200-HR certified yoga teacher from Yoga Kula Shala in Jupiter, Fl. Megan has consulted for homes and businesses and led numerous workshops; helping others spark curiosity about how their environment reflects and affects their lives. She believes that when we align our surroundings with intention, we create space for clarity, calm, and meaningful change.Follow Megan on Social Media and her newsletter:Instagram: @megannelsonfenshuiNewsletter:Free snake energy quizhttps://soulfulshui.myflodesk.com/snakeenergyquiz

Join Carolina on this episode of The Zen Gem Podcast as she welcomes back special guest Dr. Ken Grey, a licensed Doctor of Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture Physician. They dive into Dr. Grey's exciting new venture, Maximum Health Rides, a spin-off of his radio show where he explores wellness and human connection from the seat of a motorcycle.Discover how riding different bikes in new environments offers a unique perspective and deepens connections with the people and places he visits for interviews. Dr. Grey shares his personal journey into motorcycling later in life, emphasizing the importance of safety, awareness, and dispelling common stigmas about riders. This conversation isn't just about motorcycles; it's about finding healing, adventure, and shared humanity on the open road. Watch his Max Health Rides on YouTube

In this raw and reflective episode, your host delves into the complexities of human nature, inspired by her own Gemini duality. She explores the vital balance between setting boundaries and offering grace, arguing that we can't "play God" and force others to change. Instead, the focus turns inward: acknowledging our own triggers as opportunities for profound growth, rather than setbacks.Drawing from personal experiences with past struggles, an eye-opening stint in AA, and a life-altering moment of grace, she champions the Serenity Prayer's wisdom—accepting what we can't change, finding courage for what we can, and discerning the difference. This episode encourages honest self-reflection, understanding how past wounds and ingrained habits shape our present, and the transformative power of daily forgiveness. It's a powerful call to live in grace, not fear, and to meet the world with kindness, recognizing that true change begins within. You can follow her on instagram @cocolinayoga and share your thoughts or personal experience via email [email protected] 

In this episode, your host gets candid about the increasingly common issue of disrespectful behavior in shared spaces, from the yoga studio to everyday life. She shares frustrating personal anecdotes, like being yelled at by a class member for burning incense and dealing with someone complaining a class was "too easy" while exhibiting poor form.This leads to a larger discussion about the decline of traditional values, such as respect for others and accountability. She argues that a society that shies away from "shame" and over-praises every action may inadvertently foster entitlement and a lack of self-awareness.She challenges listeners to consider their own behavior in shared environments, urging them to reflect inward rather than solely judging others.What are your thoughts on "bring shame back" in a productive way?Follow Carolina on instagram @cocolinayoga or email her at [email protected] 

In this follow-up conversation, Carolina reconnects with Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor, Ryan Usher for an unfiltered dialogue on burnout, balance, and the often-overlooked emotional labor of the wellness industry. Together, they explore the physical and mental toll of hustle culture, the importance of staying present, and how movement practices—rooted in everything from Ayurveda to somatic awareness—can become essential tools for self-preservation. Whether you're a fitness professional, entrepreneur, or anyone navigating high-performance expectations, this episode offers vulnerable insight and practical wisdom for keeping your own cup full.  takeawaysBurnout is common in the wellness industry.Self-care is essential for maintaining balance.Understanding Ayurvedic principles can aid in personal health.Career identity can overshadow personal interests.Lifestyle changes can significantly impact health outcomes.Engaging in holistic wellness practices is beneficial.Finding joy in activities outside of work is crucial.Micro-movements and meditation can help manage stress.Participation in life is necessary for fulfillment.Calming the nervous system is key to avoiding burnout. You can follow Ryan on Instagram @ryan.usher_kfs

In this episode of the Zen Gem podcast, host Carolina interviews Ryan Usher, founder of Kaizen Fitness. They discuss Ryan's journey from traditional powerlifting to a holistic approach to fitness that emphasizes self-care, recovery, and the importance of breath work. Ryan shares insights on injury prevention, the role of yoga in personal growth, and the significance of community and intention in fitness. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to movement and the power of authenticity in creating a supportive environment for personal development. In this conversation, Ryan discusses the importance of intention setting and empowerment in personal growth. He emphasizes the need for individuals to recognize that they are not defined by their past experiences and encourages them to hold intentions for one another. The discussion also delves into the significance of responsibility, patience, and self-reflection in the journey of self-improvement. The conversation concludes with reflections on spirituality and the importance of living authentically beyond materialistic pursuits, highlighting the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement. You can find Ryan on Instagram @ryan.usher_kfs

Marissa Lavin is a writer, mother, and founder of Soul to Soil—a living, breathing micro-school that reimagines education through the lens of nature, self-trust, and embodied learning. After two decades in movement, holistic nutrition, and homeopathy, Marissa realized that true transformation doesn’t come from fixing—but from remembering how to live in harmony with our bodies, our children, and the natural world.Through Soul to Soil and her Enough Already movement, she helps families step out of fear-based systems and into a rhythm of learning that’s alive, relational, and rooted in truth—unlearning the disempowering narratives taught in mainstream school and healthcare that disconnect us from our inner wisdom.You can connect with her daily reflections on Instagram and read her latest essays on Substack.

Dr. Darius Fathi, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and the founder of Psych Fitness, a boutique private practice dedicated to helping high-achieving adults and teens overcome mental barriers to unlock their full potential.With expertise in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and addictions, Dr. Fathi combines evidence-based therapies—including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic therapy—to create personalized treatment plans for each client. As a trained therapy supervisor, he also helps guide the next generation of mental health professionals.Passionate about wellness and the mind-body connection, Dr. Fathi integrates exercise, mindfulness, and lifestyle strategies into his work, empowering clients to build habits that foster lasting resilience and well-being.Based in Jupiter, Florida, he offers in-person sessions and provides online therapy to teens and adults in 42 states. To learn more about Dr. Fathi and his practice, visit www.psychfitnessone.com.Email: [email protected]: @drpsychfitnessFacebook: facebook.com/PsychFitness

Based out of Jupiter, FL, and with a name that embodies the spirit of being green and growing, The Leafy Greens Band is a Folk/Americana acoustic duo known for their captivating, high-energy performances and their unique ability to connect with audiences, creating an eventful and engaging atmosphere.Billy and his wife Ellen have cultivated a loyal following, affectionately calling their fans "Buds and Sprouts," promoting a strong sense of community at their live shows.With a dream of energizing the spirit and freeing audiences from worry, Billy and Ellen quit their jobs to pursue music full-time in January 2019. Their powerful connection with crowds solidified their conviction to share this experience across the country. Each year, from spring until fall, they tour nationwide — coast to coast — covering over 30,000 miles.When writing songs, they blend various styles, drawing from a wide range of musical influences. Their goal is to create a catalog of music that tells their story while leaving listeners feeling uplifted and inspired. They released their first original album, "A Song About..." on November 10, 2021, which is available on all major streaming platforms.Follow them on social media @theleafygreensband!

In this special solo episode of The Zen Gem Podcast, your host Carolina steps into the spotlight to share her deeply personal and transformative journey into the world of sound healing and vibrational therapy. From a powerful Kundalini yoga experience to an unexpected visual encounter with sound waves, Carolina opens up about the events that awakened her to the power of vibration, frequency, and healing through sound.She walks you through her early training experiences, from yoga teacher certification to advanced sound therapy education in Florida and Nepal. You'll hear about the ancient roots of sound healing, how science is beginning to back it up, and how instruments like crystal bowls, chimes, and gongs can help us calm the nervous system, regulate energy, and release trauma—both big and small.Whether you're curious about the science behind vibration or looking to deepen your own healing practice, this episode offers a heartfelt and informative dive into a holistic modality that bridges ancient wisdom with modern wellness.Explore sound as medicine, the power of intention, and Carolina’s favorite instruments for creating calm, balance, and transformation.

Peggy Sullivan is a business addict in recovery, keynote speaker, author, and researcher. Her TEDx talk with millions of views and bestselling book Beyond Busyness has inspired audiences worldwide to overcome busyness and achieve peak performance without sacrificing well-being.Through her signature busy-busting framework—trusted by Fortune 500 companies like Google, Bank of America, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Johns Hopkins—she reveals how packed schedules can reduce productivity and fulfillment. With humor, personal stories, and research-based solutions, Peggy empowers individuals and organizations to shift from hustle to purpose, unlocking greater engagement, resilience, and measurable success.Watch Peggy’s TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/Xo1Bmz8q-BM?si=BLBS_Xgc-p81oawT Learn more about Peggy and where to purchase her book on her website: www.peggysullivanspeaker.com

Jill is a yoga teacher and owner of Thrive Power Yoga & Wellness, a studio that offers Yoga, Pilates, and Barre classes, as well as cold plunge, sauna, and massage in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. When she’s not teaching or running the studio, Jill can be found training others to become yoga teachers and mentoring her staff on various aspects to elevate their scope of teaching and yoga business acumen.Follow @thrivepoweryogapb for all the latest happenings or visit https://thrivepoweryogapb.com to learn more about her studio and the services provided.

Sydnee Fiorello is the owner of Treign Functional Fitness, a boutique personal training studio in Jupiter. She is a South Florida native and University of Florida graduate with a passion for helping others through health and fitness. Before she found her true calling, Sydnee spent the first 10 years of her career in legal marketing and administration, at one point single-handedly running a 500-member legal organization that she grew to a more than six-figure profitability. Through years of study and a versatile background, Sydnee specializes in working with clients who are injured, post-surgery, pregnant, postpartum, and new to fitness.  At Treign, she offers a customized and holistic approach through one-on-one training. She is known for her detailed eye and intuition, helping her clients feel better when they leave than when they walked in. Since she was a child, Sydnee has been an avid equestrian, martial artist, and lover of all things water. She has been a featured speaker, presenter and fitness instructor for the Town of Palm Beach Shores, Susan G. Komen Florida, Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, the Palm Beach County Justice Association, Jupiter Country Club, Charter Schools USA, South Florida Water Management District, and many more.Find her on Instagram @sydneejainefitness and @treignfunctionalfitness, and on her website: www.treign-fitness.com

Jen Magi is an engineer, adventurer, and advocate for change. As a solar project engineer, she designs and builds large-scale solar facilities to support Florida’s energy transition. But this year, she’s taking on an even bigger challenge—climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to honor her late father, Mike Magi, and raise critical funds in the fight against blood cancer.Born and raised at sea level in Delray Beach, Florida, Jen has had to train in creative ways for the 19,341-foot climb. That’s why she launched “Sweat for a Cure,” a fitness and fundraising initiative that partners with local studios to promote health, build community, and support LLS—all while preparing for the summit. Jen’s story proves you don’t have to be a superhuman athlete to do something incredible. She’s just a regular 27-year-old taking on a mountain-sized challenge in memory of the man who inspired her most.Join her mission! Donate and read more about her journey at cure.lls.org/jennifermagi. Follow her training and stay up to date on fundraising events at @sweat_for_a_cure on Instagram.

Carolina Panoff is a life coach specializing in Authenticity and the visionary founder of Be You Disco, a groundbreaking team-building company that brings wellness and authenticity to the forefront through music, movement, and mindfulness. Passionate about breaking down barriers, Carolina helps transform company cultures to thrive relationally by boosting well-being and improving the bottom line. She focuses on fostering belonging, connection, and empathy within teams, drawing inspiration from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability. At Be You Disco, Carolina and her team curate bespoke experiences that build meaningful bonds among participants, inspiring collaboration and personal growth. Their innovative approach has earned recognition from Meetings Today as one of the top new team-building activities, significantly enhancing attendee engagement at conferences. Carolina’s mission is to create spaces where individuals thrive both personally and professionally, cultivating environments filled with positivity, creativity, and genuine connection. She has had the honor of working with Fortune 500 companies, sharing her unique vision for corporate wellness and team building. Discover how Carolina and Be You Disco can transform your team’s dynamics and elevate your corporate culture. To connect, email Carolina at [email protected] and follow Be You Disco on Instagram @beyoudisco.teams.

In this episode of Zen Gem Podcast, Carolina sits down with Kim Depasquale, a Florida native, yoga studio owner, and co-founder of Downward Goat at Groovy Goat Farm. Kim shares her journey from the corporate world to discovering her true purpose in yoga, energy healing, and working with animals. They discuss the importance of grounding, the concept of being energetically wealthy, and how yoga goes beyond movement to create deep self-awareness and healing. The conversation also explores Kundalini yoga and its ability to activate energy and transformation through breathwork and mantra. Kim explains how her nonprofit, Downward Goat, provides a sanctuary for first responders, veterans, and anyone seeking relief from stress through yoga and time with animals. Topics Covered: Transitioning from corporate life to a wellness-centered path The deeper meaning of yoga beyond physical movement How Kundalini yoga supports energy flow and healing The powerful connection between humans and animals How Downward Goat is helping people find peace and balance This conversation is filled with insight, personal growth, and the reminder that true wealth comes from within. Listen now on all podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Zen Gem Podcast for more.

Marisa is a dynamic professional who balances a successful career in finance with her passion for fitness. By day, she serves as the Director of Marketing for a leading financial firm, where she leverages her strategic expertise to drive growth and innovation. By night, Marisa transitions into a fitness enthusiast, having taught indoor cycling at CycleBar for nearly eight years. Her energy, dedication, and motivational style have made her a beloved instructor. Recently, Marisa’s commitment to both fitness and community was recognized when she became a Lululemon Ambassador, further solidifying her role as a leader in the wellness space. Passionate about helping others reach their full potential, Marisa’s work and lifestyle inspire those around her to live more empowered lives. You can find her at CYCLEBAR PALM BEACH GARDENS and on instagram @training4tacos

Incorporating somatic practices beyond talk therapy became integral to her healing, affirming the truth that “the body keeps the score.”It was through this exploration that she discovered the profound somatic healing potential of breathwork. Inspired by years of personal practice, Michelle is passionate about sharing this transformative gift, empowering others to reconnect with their radical authenticity and inner strength through the breath.  Michelle is a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, certified in SomatiQ Breathwork and Emergence Breathwork, and a certified Reiki practitioner.  She leads group classes at Kaizen every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. Additionally, she offers private sessions and is available to facilitate retreats.  You can find her on instagram @inner_haven_breathwork and her website www.innerhavenbreathwork.com 

Dr. Ken Grey is a licensed Doctor of Oriental Medicine & Acupuncture Physician with his masters in both fields. In this episode, Dr. Grey presents his unique approach to holistic healing and vitality as a man in today's society.  Dr. Grey has been on staff at Jupiter Medical Center for over 20 years has his private practice in Jupiter for over 20 years where he is a proud resident. Dr.Grey is the host of Maximum Health Radio "Quality Living" podcast on NPR and Author of Health in Balance books and cofounder of a health and wellness app Vell Healthy For Dr. Ken Grey, a Holistic Physician, knowledge is power and the key to living a healthier, longer life. You can find him at https://drkengrey.com and on instagram @dockengrey You can find his app at https://vellhealth.com 

Katie Usher is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in Pelvic Floor Health. University of Florida graduate in 2011 with her Bachelor's degree in Health Education & Behavior and received her DPT from the University of Miami. Her passion for women's health grew as she entered the hospital-based outpatient system and found how underserved women are in the prenatal and postpartum period. This passion drove her to create her own business to cater to these mama’s, and was only strengthened after having her own daughter in early 2019. Her mission is to help create a standard of care around women’s health and pelvic floor physical therapy, specifically in the prenatal and postpartum population. You can find her and her team at Kaizen Pelvic Wellness in palm beach gardens  https://www.mulabandhapt.com Follow her on instagram @kaizenpelvicwellness

Carolina shares her insights of New Year's resolutions on her first solo episode recording on her new podcast! Identifying the voice in our head that keeps us from progressing. This episode will give you a boost of encouragement if you are feeling unmotivated or falling off your "New Years" resolutions. Reminding our listeners that there is always an opportunity to start fresh and anew! Follow @zengempodcast and @cocolinayoga for more insight and inspiration! Email [email protected] to share how you stay committed to your "resolutions"! 

In this episode, Victoria Taylor, a Florida native, seasoned yogi and sound healer, opens up about her personal yoga journey, sharing how the rich philosophy of yoga has deeply influenced her practice and teaching. We delve into the transformative power of yoga, exploring how it cultivates both physical strength and inner peace. She gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming arm balance workshop she's co-leading with me!  We discuss the benefits of arm balances, both physically and mentally, and offer some tips and insights for those looking to conquer these challenging poses. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice. You can find Victoria on instagram @bevictorious_ . You can find our teaching schedules and events at Thrive Power Yoga Palm Beache's website https://thrivepoweryogapb.com Thanks for tuning in to another episode of ZenGem Podcast! If you liked what you heard, be sure to leave a 5 star review, like and subscribe so you never miss an episode! You can also follow me on Instagram @zengempodcast for more content and inspiration. head to my website cocolina.yoga if you want to be a guest or a sponsor on my show. Leave your comments and questions on the email link and subscribe to my workout program too. See you on the next episode Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave us a review! If you have any questions or want to get involved with the show, email us at [email protected]. Thanks for listening!  

Carolina and Tova share their plans for the new year. While Rebel Zen Podcast with Tova and Carolina is retiring, Carolina has rebranded the show to ZEN GEM PODCAST, where leaders in the health and wellness field share their knowledge and inspire listeners to live an empowered and vital life. Tova shares what she looks forward to creating in this new year. You can follow her on social media @tova.yogafit 

Welcome to the Zen Gem podcast, where we invite health and wellness professionals to share how their personal journeys have inspired them to help others. Listen along to discover holistic practices and develop your own autonomy and the choices you make. I'm your host, Carolina, founder of CocoLina Yoga and a fitness professional since 2011. Over the years, I've met countless inspiring individuals and I'm passionate about guiding others to discover how to live a vital life. Stick around until the end of each episode for our final Zen Gem. It will leave you feeling encouraged and inspired. Be sure to like, review, and subscribe to the show and share it with your friends. New episode release every Tuesday. Hope to see you there!