Empowering High-Functioning Adults with Practical Psychological Skills

— Today we're exploring the Loyalty Problem — the quiet, powerful force that makes changing how we parent feel like a betrayal of the people who raised us. It shows up as hesitation, half-changed habits, and the painful cycle of doing the work in theory but undoing it in practice. In this episode Olivia names what keeps so many parents stuck, unpack why love and loyalty can block real change, and offer ways to move forward without severing the ties that matter. You'll hear concrete ideas for making shifts that actually stick, compassionate language to use with yourself, and a new lens for understanding why parenting advice so often fails. If you've ever tried to parent differently and felt pulled back by guilt, fear, or family expectations, this conversation will give you clarity, permission, and practical next steps to begin shifting those patterns. Valeria interviews Olivia Bergeron, LCSW — She is a psychotherapist, parent coach and speaker, who founded Mommy Groove Therapy & Parent Coaching (mommygroove.com) to help parents successfully navigate the huge changes that come with having a child. A mom to twins and a singleton, Olivia understands the demands that come with parenting in New York City. Olivia received her Bachelor's from Vassar College and her Master's in Clinical Social Work from New York University. She has a Post Master's Certificate in Advanced Clinical Social Work also from New York University and a Certificate from the Postpartum Stress Center. Olivia was selected to be a part of the first ever coaching training by Dr. Laura Markham, author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids and the site ahaparenting.com. She is proud to help parents find a way to "stop yelling and start connecting" with their child. She speaks Spanish and French fluently, and offers her services in these languages as well. Olivia has appeared in the New York Times, Huffington Post, Self Magazine, ABC News, TheBump.com and on Fox 5 New York. She has contributed articles to Brooklyn Family Magazine, Manhattan Family Magazine, A Child Grows In Brooklyn, Parenting and the City, and YourTango.com. To learn more about Olivia Bergeron and her work, visit https://mommygroove.com/.

— "The universe, including the sun, moon, waters, breeze, trees, and leaves, is here to bathe in, on, and around us. These elements of nature are the source of our beauty and replenish our beings" Valeria interviews Nadine Artemis  — She is the founder of Living Libations, is the author of Holistic Dental Care: The Complete Guide to Healthy Teeth and Gums, and Renegade Beauty: Reveal and Revive Your Natural Radiance. Renegade Beauty was named one of "The Top 10 Books on Skin Care" by The Strategist of New York Magazine. A media contributor and visionary formulator, Nadine's creations have received acclaim in the New York Times, Vogue, and The Hollywood Reporter. Described by Alanis Morissette as "a true-sense visionary," Nadine formulates elegantly effective, pure solutions that optimize oral care, awaken the skin's inherent glow, and replenish the body's resonance. Her concept of Renegade Beauty encourages a return to ease through biological wisdom, inspiring a shift in how we understand wellness and the alchemy of beauty. To learn more about Nadine Artemis and her work, visit https://livinglibations.com.

— "Understanding our essential human struggles, the compassionate heart naturally wants to help—not quiet—our thinking. It does so through the emanation of care and connection, soothing the wanting and non-wanting and making the present pleasant and nourishing to be in. Feeling the support, our thoughts will often be happy to rest, and our heart-minds can finally relax and enjoy the moment. This joy then further stabilizes the mind and opens us to deeper concentration and insight. " Valeria interviews Justin Michelson — He is the author of  "The Dharma of Healing: The Path of Liberation from Stress, Pain, and Trauma." Justin Michelson is a meditation teacher, author, and wilderness guide. Through his root teacher Rodney Smith, and Rodney's teacher Ajahn Buddhadasa, Justin carries on the lineage of the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism. His unique style blends nature-based practice, emotional healing, and traditional Dharma teachings. He currently lives with his partner outside of Eugene, Oregon in a rural intentional community where, in addition to teaching and writing, he owns and operates Native Foods Nursery, a native edible plant nursery. Learn more about Justin Michelson and his work!

— As we release stored tension, soften resistance, and move in ways that feel aligned rather than performative, the way we relate to the world begins to shift as well. Our nervous systems regulate. Our reactions soften. Our presence becomes less guarded and more genuine. Self-awareness creates coherence within the individual. And coherence within individuals quietly contributes to coherence within the collective. This is not dramatic change. It is gentle evolution. Calmer conversations. More compassion. More people feeling safe enough to be themselves. Movement, in this way, becomes more than physical expression. It becomes participation in the evolution of our own consciousness. And as each person reconnects with their body, their truth, and their internal rhythm, the ripple extends far beyond what can be measured. What begins as remembering ourselves becomes a quiet contribution to a world that feels more present, more connected, and more alive. Valeria interviews Caren Carnegie — She is an Intuitive Momentum Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, Spiritual Life Coach, and Channeler, and the founder of Transform Fitness Coaching. She guides individuals beyond traditional fitness into a deeper relationship with their body, mind, and inner awareness—where movement becomes a pathway to self-leadership and remembrance. With nearly two decades of experience working closely with people, Caren blends physical training with intuitive insight to support sustainable, embodied transformation. Her work redefines fit-ness as a state of being—one rooted in self-acceptance, coherence, and personal truth. Through her coaching, writing, and speaking, Caren invites others to move with what moves them, reconnect with their inner wisdom, and create momentum that reflects who they truly are. Learn more about Caren Carnegie and her amazing work at https://transformfitnesscoaching.com/ and her Instagram: @carencarnegiefitness.

— Master the Art of Emotional Intelligence in Just Weeks, Even if You've Struggled with It Your Entire Life! Do you find emotional misunderstandings at home or work derail your day? Are you overwhelmed by juggling personal growth with your professional demands and personal relationships? Do the nuances of empathy and emotional communication seem like a puzzle with too many missing pieces? If you answered "yes," you're not alone. Parents, business professionals, caregivers, and numerous others in your position have felt that same sense of overwhelm, yet the path to enhanced relationships and satisfying work-life balance is simpler than you might think. Valeria interviews Meg Colby — She is the author of THE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE MASTERY SERIES; "From Emotional Intelligence to Sacred Wisdom", "Mindful Women - Resilient Lives" and "Emotional Intelligence Mastery in Working With Death & Dying." For more than twenty-five years, Meg walked through the fire of her own emotional awakening. She didn't grow up knowing how to name her feelings, tend to them, or navigate the rich inner landscape that shapes how we love and who we become. Her emotional intelligence wasn't inherited or handed down — it was forged. What began as her own path toward healing slowly deepened into an understanding of how women lose touch with themselves, how old wounds quietly take hold, and how profound the shift can be when they finally turn inward and listen. As Meg learned to recognize, honor, and move with her emotions, a quiet truth emerged: countless women were carrying the same silent weight. That knowing changed everything. For years now, Meg has worked alongside women ready to soften the grip of old patterns — those longing for lives shaped by clarity, honesty, and a truer sense of self. Her approach is grounded, warm, and born of lived experience rather than theory alone. Through her writing, Meg invites readers into a gentler, wiser relationship with themselves. She believes emotional intelligence isn't about getting it right — it's about showing up, finding the courage to feel, and reclaiming the tender parts of us that have waited so long to be heard. When she's not writing or walking beside others on their journeys, Meg can be found in the quiet, meaningful corners of life — the ones that bring her joy, purpose, and a deeper kinship with what it means to be human. Learn more about Meg Colby and her work!

— Welcome to today's episode, where we explore the transformative power of practical psychological skills with David Hernandez, a seasoned psychotherapist, coach, and co-founder of Stoa Life. David is dedicated to helping high-functioning adults achieve personal growth and resilience. Drawing from his extensive experience as a Navy Hospital Corpsman and over 20 years in law enforcement, he seamlessly integrates modern psychology with Stoic-inspired principles. This unique approach equips individuals with the tools they need to manage thoughts, emotions, and relationships effectively. Join us as we dive into practical strategies for overcoming anxiety , building confidence, and enhancing emotional resilience to empower your everyday life. Learn more about David Hernandez and his work!

— Welcome to today's episode, where we dive deep into the concept of the Authentic Self with Heejin Ryoo, a licensed mental health counselor and the founder of HJ Holistic Therapy in Florida. Heejin is renowned for her trauma-informed psychotherapy, focusing on integrative, somatically informed mental health care. With licenses in multiple states, her approach empowers individuals to reconnect with their inner strength by balancing Eastern-informed healing wisdom with practical, evidence-based interventions. In this episode, Heejin shares her insights on uncovering and embracing the Authentic Self amidst life's challenges. We'll explore how cultural influences shape this journey, the significance of nervous system regulation, and practical strategies for living authentically. Join us as we discover how recognizing and aligning with our Authentic Self can lead to greater emotional resilience and a more empowered life. Valeria interviews Heejin Ryoo - LMHC (FL), LPC (AZ & SC), and LPCC (OH), — She is the founder of HJ Holistic Therapy in Florida, offering trauma‑informed, somatically grounded psychotherapy for adults facing anxiety, trauma, identity work, relational challenges, and major life transitions.  Blending Eastern‑informed wisdom with evidence‑based interventions, she helps clients regulate their nervous systems, build emotional resilience, and translate insight into sustainable change—always with direct attunement, practical tools, and room for humor. Bilingual in Korean, Heejin also provides psychological evaluations and immigration‑related clinical documentation, guided by rigorous ethical standards. Her core belief: you are not broken—therapy helps you remember the strength you already have. Learn more about Heejin Ryoo and her work!

— In this meaningful podcast episode, we explore resilience, survival, and the indomitable human spirit through the lens of personal stories. Chaz Holesworth shares his journey, his heart, his inspiring artistic work and profound view of life. With a focus on authenticity, humor, and heartfelt advocacy for social justice , this podcast is about standing up for the underdog and championing causes that matter. Chaz's "Life and How to Live" memoir series is a testament to the power of hope and renewal. Tune in as he shares his vulnerabilities, embraces his unpredictable journeys, and discover that no matter the obstacles, there's always a way forward. Valeria interviews Chaz Holesworth — He is the author of the memoir series "Life and How to Live It." Chaz Holesworth grew up in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood, where addiction, poverty, and faith defined his daily life. Those experiences shaped his perspective and fueled his drive to write honestly about survival, memory, and meaning. Now living in the suburbs with his wife and their dog, he still carries Philly with him in his humor and his belief in standing up for the underdog. When he isn't writing, Chaz can be found at a live show, exploring new corners of the world, or enjoying a craft beer. A passionate advocate for social justice, he is deeply committed to championing the rights of workers and animals, striving to make a difference in the causes closest to his heart. Life and How to Live It is his memoir series told with unflinching honesty. With his gift for storytelling, he writes to connect, to remember, and to show others that even in the darkest corners of the past, there is a way forward. To learn more about Chaz Holesworth and his work!

— Welcome to a Quest for Well-Being podcast, where we explore the depths of personal growth, emotional well-being, spiritual and holistic living. Today we're diving into a conversation that challenges conventional ideas of healing with our special guest, Tricia Parido. Tricia is an innovative Emotional Performance Strategist and the creator of Total Emotional Performance™, an empowering framework designed to enhance emotional agility, expand nervous system capacity, and facilitate sustainable personal change. Tricia's work uniquely bridges performance psychology, emotional intelligence, and psycho-nutrition to help individuals understand the profound impact of physiology and nervous system burdens on behavior. Her approach shifts the focus from constant healing to building emotional capacity, enabling people to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. This empowers people to lead themselves with clarity, break free from coping loops, and achieve sustainable self-leadership. In this episode, Valeria interviews Tricia and together they explore the intricacies of emotional capacity, the collaboration of the nervous system and body intelligence, and how Tricia's practical framework steers individuals towards lasting well-being. Get ready to discover why most people don't need more healing—they need the power of emotional capacity. Learn more about You Don't Need Healing. You Need Emotional Capacity with Tricia Parido.

— In this episode, we delve into how mindfulness and meditation serve as vital tools in connecting with the present, and how therapy cultivates openness to new possibilities. We explore key topics such as defining mental health and human suffering, the role of mindfulness in therapy, and the art of rewriting personal narratives to alleviate anxiety and depression. Samantha shares her insights on nurturing our inner child, transforming language and perception, and utilizing art as a healing medium. Our conversation touches on the complexity of suffering, how simple changes in our environment help combat overstimulation, and the profound impact of finding fullness in stillness. We also discuss the concept of "glimmers" in nature, experiences to cherish before death, and how they aid in overcoming triggers. Throughout the discussion, Samantha shares how mindfulness, creativity, and a simplified life help us embrace authenticity and clarity.  Valeria interviews Samantha Maederer  — She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida, with over a decade of experience. With a background in Art Therapy from Florida State University, her unique path intersects art and mental health. Samantha began her career by co-creating a public art installation highlighting patient voices from the Florida State Psychiatric Hospital, and now encourages creativity in her clients to navigate challenges. She spent 12 years in community mental health, offering therapy to survivors of sexual trauma and postpartum clients. Samantha's approach is informed by her own mental health journey and a belief in art as a tool to process experiences. She integrates Zen Buddhism and Daoism principles, helping clients embrace non-judgment and reality awareness. Samantha specializes in working with women with complex trauma histories. She employs somatic work, mindfulness, and focuses on anxiety, panic, and OCD. Her therapeutic approach includes helping clients reconnect with their younger selves. Outside of therapy, Samantha enjoys gardening, kayaking, and promoting a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing focus and the mind-body connection. Learn more about Samantha Maederer and her work.