Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we take a deep dive into Don Miguel Ruiz's timeless book, The Four Agreements. These simple yet profound principles—Be impeccable with your word, Don't take anything personally, Don't make assumptions, and Always do your best—offer a transformative framework for personal growth and mental well-being. Join us as we break down each agreement, exploring how they can help you unlearn unhealthy habits, navigate relationships with clarity and compassion, and embrace a more authentic way of living. From real-life examples to actionable strategies, we'll guide you through ways to align your thoughts, words, and actions with your true values. Whether you're seeking peace in your relationships, confidence in your decisions, or simply a better connection with yourself, this episode will inspire you to live more mindfully and intentionally. Tune in, reflect, and start building the life you deserve. Listen now and begin your journey toward inner peace.

In this special holiday episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we're tackling the festive yet sometimes challenging world of family gatherings. The holidays are a time for connection, but they can also bring up stress, tension, and the pressure to make everything perfect. Join us as we explore practical strategies for navigating family dynamics, setting boundaries, handling difficult relatives, and managing sensitive conversations at the dinner table. From dealing with the pressure of holiday expectations to avoiding the infamous ‘When are you getting married?' question, we're covering it all with a mix of humor and real-life advice. Whether you're looking forward to the season or dreading it, this episode offers tips for maintaining your peace and enjoying the holiday chaos in stride. Tune in for an insightful, relatable conversation that will help you stay grounded and make the most of the holiday season. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and tell us how you handle the holiday hustle!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we're diving deep into gaslighting—a subtle but powerful form of emotional manipulation that leaves you questioning your reality. Gaslighting is more than a buzzword; it's a tactic used in relationships to control, confuse, and erode self-trust. We break down what gaslighting really is, why people use it, and the psychological impact it can have. From subtle put-downs to outright denial, we explore the classic signs of gaslighting and give real-life examples to help you spot this behavior in your own life. Plus, we're sharing practical strategies for setting boundaries, documenting events, and rebuilding confidence if you've experienced gaslighting. Whether it's in a romantic relationship, family, or even a friendship, this episode offers tools to help you recognize manipulation and reclaim your sense of self. Tune in to understand gaslighting from all angles, and don't forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation. Remember, your experiences are valid, and trusting yourself is key to breaking free!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we explore the hidden emotional and physical toll of caregiver stress. Caring for a loved one, while deeply rewarding, can also lead to overwhelming exhaustion, guilt, and burnout. We take a deep dive into the real struggles caregivers face and how this stress can impact mental and physical health over time. We break down the biology of stress, exploring how prolonged caregiving activates the body's fight-or-flight response and leads to burnout. Listeners will hear about practical strategies for managing stress, including building a support network, accessing respite care, and finding balance through self-care routines. Whether you're caring for a parent, child, or partner, this episode offers actionable tools to help you prioritize your own well-being while continuing to support those you love. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with expert advice, and learn how to avoid burnout and navigate the emotional weight of caregiving. Don't forget to subscribe and share!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we're peeling back the layers of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and showing you how to spot the signs in real life. Narcissists don't come with labels—so how do you know if you're dealing with one? We'll walk you through the key characteristics, including inflated egos, lack of empathy, and the constant need for validation, all summed up with the "SPECIAL ME" acronym. Get ready for an interactive breakdown that makes recognizing these traits easy and clear. We'll also dive into the emotional rollercoaster of navigating relationships with someone who has NPD. Whether it's a partner, a friend, or even a family member, you'll learn how to protect your emotional health, set boundaries, and avoid getting trapped in the narcissistic cycle. Plus, we explore the impact of parenting on narcissism—how certain childhood experiences and parenting styles may contribute to the development of narcissistic traits, and what you can do to foster healthier dynamics. This episode is packed with practical tips, relatable examples, and expert insights to help you understand narcissism at a deeper level—while keeping it fun and interactive. If you've ever wondered how to handle a narcissist without losing your sanity, this episode is for you. Tune in for a lively, enlightening conversation that could change how you approach your relationships. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave us your thoughts!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we dive into the often misunderstood world of ADHD and ADD. We explore how these conditions are diagnosed, the stigma surrounding them, and why so many adults are only now receiving their ADHD diagnoses. You'll learn about the differences between ADHD subtypes, the impact of these conditions on daily life, and how late-in-life diagnosis can affect careers and relationships. We also take a closer look at the brain science behind ADHD, including how dopamine levels and executive function play a role in attention and impulsivity. With a focus on practical strategies, we provide tips on how to manage ADHD in the workplace, at home, and in relationships, breaking down both medication and non-medication treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This episode is packed with actionable insights to help those with ADHD or ADD navigate their condition and find effective solutions. Tune in for a deeper understanding of ADHD and ADD, and don't forget to subscribe and share!

In this uplifting episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Adrian Mesa, a dual-certified nurse practitioner and founder of AMP Mental Health, to discuss his powerful journey from personal hardships to professional success. With a background as a pediatric ICU nurse, an army veteran, and a professor at the University of Miami, Dr. Mesa has experienced the full range of human emotions—both in his personal life and his practice. Dr. Mesa shares how growing up with an uncle who battled schizophrenia planted the seed for his passion for mental health. He talks candidly about navigating tough challenges like losing his job during the COVID-19 pandemic, going through a divorce, and still finding the strength to turn these trials into opportunities for growth. His message is clear: "Don't turn speed bumps into roadblocks"—every obstacle can be the start of something new. In this episode, Dr. Mesa shares invaluable insights on how to stay motivated despite life's toughest challenges and why it's essential to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. He highlights the importance of accountability, resilience, and self-care, especially for those in caregiving roles and those struggling with mental health issues. Dr. Mesa also tackles the stigma around men seeking mental health care, emphasizing why men often hesitate to seek help and how we can change that narrative. If you've ever felt stuck, faced rejection, or been unsure how to move forward, Dr. Mesa's practical advice will inspire you to take control of your life, own your failures, and use them to fuel your progress. Learn how to find empowerment in your struggles and why, in Dr. Mesa's words, "You can't pour from an empty cup"—self-care is crucial for anyone looking to thrive. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, career setbacks, or personal loss, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and ready to tackle life's next challenge. Join us for this empowering conversation, and don't forget to like, follow, and subscribe for more motivational episodes!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Andres Cartaya, a renowned clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. We explore key mental health topics like ADHD, anxiety, and the lasting impact of COVID-19 on social skills and mental well-being. Dr. Cartaya breaks down the difference between ADHD and ADD, why ADHD diagnoses are more common in the U.S. than in Europe, and how misdiagnoses—such as confusing dyslexia with ADHD—can happen. We also dive into the importance of differential diagnosis and how self-assessment tools can help individuals understand their mental health better. As a geriatric specialist, Dr. Cartaya shares heartfelt advice on navigating caregiver stress, dementia, and the emotional toll of moving loved ones into assisted living. He also explains stress management techniques, including exercise and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), offering practical tips for managing day-to-day challenges. We wrap up the episode with a fun mini-game and Dr. Cartaya's reflections on transference, countertransference, and the importance of breaking cycles in therapy. Tune in for this insightful conversation packed with expert advice and actionable strategies to enhance your mental health. Don't forget to subscribe and share!

In this episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, hosts Lizzy and Camila explore the transformative impact of the 5 Love Languages, as developed by Dr. Gary Chapman. These five distinct ways of giving and receiving love—Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch—offer powerful insights into how we can strengthen our relationships with partners, family, and friends. Understanding your own love language and that of your loved ones can close communication gaps, reduce conflict, and lead to greater emotional intimacy. Lizzy and Camila discuss the psychology behind the love languages, how they can change over time, and the importance of intentional choices in showing love. Whether you're looking to improve your romantic relationship or connect more deeply with family and friends, this episode will provide practical tips and insights on how to apply the love languages in everyday life. Tune in to learn how small shifts in the way you express love can lead to big improvements in relationship satisfaction. Remember to follow and subscribe to Breaking Barriers for more mental health conversations, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from it!

Welcome to the first episode of Season 2 of Breaking Barriers, the Mental Health Podcast! In this powerful and insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Schell, a seasoned OBGYN and postpartum specialist, to delve into the often-overlooked realities of postnatal care. We prepare so much for the arrival of a baby, but what about what comes after? Join us as we discuss the crucial importance of postnatal education—because the journey doesn't end at childbirth. Dr. Schell shares her expertise on breastfeeding, bonding with your newborn, and navigating the emotional and mental challenges that many new mothers face. In this episode, we break down the three types of postpartum depression—Baby Blues, Postpartum Depression, and Postpartum Psychosis—helping you understand the signs, symptoms, and when it's time to seek help. We also explore the often-debated topic of breastfeeding, emphasizing that the right choice is the one that's best for you and your baby. Whether you choose to breastfeed, pump, or use formula, this episode is all about removing the stigma and embracing informed, judgment-free decisions. Tune in for an honest conversation that sheds light on the realities of new motherhood, the challenges women face, and the importance of compassionate, non-judgmental support. This is an episode every new mother, and those who support them, won't want to miss. Learn more from Dr. Schell, find her on Instagram: @drschellcares If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your friends and family. We'd love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram: @breakingbarriersthepodcast, and share your thoughts, questions, or personal experiences. Your feedback helps us break barriers and reach more people who need to hear these crucial conversations.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Lizzy and Camila dive deep into the complex world of social media. They discuss how platforms designed to bring people together can sometimes have the opposite effect, influencing users to compare their lives with others and potentially harming their mental health. Join us as we explore: The impact of social media on self-identity and mental well-being. Real-life stories of people who have struggled with social media comparisons. How social media can both unite and divide communities. Practical tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with social media. Whether you're an avid social media user or someone trying to find a balance, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating the digital age with your mental health intact. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights both the positive and negative sides of social media. Follow us on Instagram at @BreakingBarriers for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more!

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Breaking Barriers, we sit down with Nancy Alvarez, a remarkable woman who has faced breast cancer not once, but twice. Nancy shares her emotional journey from diagnosis to survival, highlighting the importance of early detection, the impact of family support, and the strength of a positive mindset. Nancy's story began when she was misdiagnosed while breastfeeding her twins, only to discover later that she had stage 2-3 breast cancer. Despite the fear and challenges, Nancy remained resilient, drawing strength from her children and maintaining a positive outlook. She discusses the role of genetic testing, her decision to undergo a total hysterectomy, and the importance of self-examination in detecting cancer early. Through her voice and first-hand experience, Nancy offers practical advice for those going through similar experiences. She emphasizes the significance of a support system, therapy, and staying hopeful. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. Tune in to hear Nancy's inspiring story and gain valuable insights on navigating life after a cancer diagnosis. Make sure to like, share, and subscribe for more stories. Follow us on Instagram @breakingbarriersthepodcast, and let's get social!

In this inspiring episode of "Breaking Barriers," we sit down with Cristina Pilo, a health coach with a dynamic journey of self-discovery and wellness. Cristina, who has been a health coach for four years and a makeup artist for fifteen, shares her personal exploration of health and confidence. Tune in as Cristina discusses the importance of morning routines, the power of small changes, and how to build self-confidence and create the life you desire. Cristina emphasizes the significance of getting sunlight before 10 AM, maintaining a journal, and establishing a healthy circadian rhythm. She also shares insights on overcoming social media pressures, dealing with public scrutiny, and setting small, attainable goals to achieve big dreams. Whether you're looking to boost your self-esteem, improve your health, or find new ways to navigate life's challenges, this episode is packed with valuable tips and heartfelt advice. Key Takeaways: The benefits of morning sunlight and establishing a daily routine. Strategies for building self-confidence and setting achievable goals. The importance of limiting social media consumption and focusing on real-life experiences. Tips for overcoming the pressure of public opinion and finding joy in your journey. Join us for an engaging conversation that will inspire you to take small steps toward big changes in your life. Follow Cristina Pilo on Instagram for more wellness tips and inspiration: @CristinaPilo Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for updates and more insightful content: @BreakingBarriersThePodcast

In this heartfelt episode of "Breaking Barriers," we are joined by Dr. Manuel Torres, a board-certified physician in family and obesity medicine, and a devoted father of four. Dr. Torres shares his inspiring journey of navigating life with his youngest child, Francesco, who battles epilepsy and autism due to a brain tumor. Dr. Torres delves into the importance of clinical observation, the challenges and rewards of balancing a demanding medical career while providing extraordinary care for a special needs child, and the intricate relationship between obesity and mental health. He also offers valuable tips on men's health and the significance of monitoring testosterone levels. Tune in to hear how resilience, medical expertise, and family support intersect in the life of Dr. Torres, and gain practical tips and heartfelt stories that can guide anyone navigating similar challenges. Key Takeaways: The importance of early medical intervention and clinical observation. Balancing a medical career with personal challenges. Understanding the connection between obesity and mental health. Practical tips for men's health and overall well-being. The power of resilience and family support.

Welcome back to "Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast" with your hosts Lizzy and Camila! In this episode, it's just the two of us diving deep into a topic that resonates with many of us: recognizing when it's time to let go of toxic relationships and embrace change. Join us as we discuss: When to Let Go and Embrace Change: How to identify when a relationship no longer serves you. Red Flags and Toxic People: Understanding the signs that someone is holding you back. Emotional Vampires: How to deal with people who drain your energy and happiness. Setting Boundaries: The importance of establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries. Grief and Prioritizing Yourself: The process of grieving a relationship and focusing on self-care. Separating Friendship from Work: Navigating the complexities of working with friends. Accountability and Validation: The significance of taking accountability and validating your feelings. Forgiving and Finding Your People: Embracing forgiveness and surrounding yourself with a supportive tribe. We share personal stories, insights, and practical tips on how to deal with jealousy, emotional vampires, and the challenges of setting boundaries. We also talk about the power of forgiveness and the importance of prioritizing your mental health. Tune in for an honest and empowering conversation about creating a healthier and happier life by letting go of what no longer serves you and embracing the new version of yourself. Don't miss out on this episode! Subscribe, like, and follow us on Instagram @BreakingBarriersThePodcast. Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Welcome back to "Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast" with your hosts Lizzy and Camila! In this enlightening episode, we are honored to have Silvia Cuba, PMHNP, Director of Clinical Operations at Diverse Clinical Research, and a long-time friend of the show. Silvia shares her inspiring journey from immigrating to the U.S. from Cuba to becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a leader in clinical research. Her dedication to helping patients and advancing science is truly remarkable. Dive into a fascinating discussion on topics including: The critical role of clinical trials in advancing science and developing new treatments. Understanding the importance of clinical research in rare conditions. The stigma surrounding clinical trials and the need for better education in the community. The impact of immigration and cultural diversity in mental health care. Balancing roles as a new mom, a healthcare professional, and an advocate for mental health. Exploring the gut-brain connection, anxiety, depression, and the importance of psychotherapy. The value of self-care, affirmations, and mirror talk in maintaining mental well-being. Silvia also emphasizes the importance of talking to someone and seeking help for mental health issues. Her insights on the need for diversity in clinical trials and the challenges faced by ethnic communities are eye-opening. Join us for this informative and inspiring conversation, packed with practical tips and heartfelt stories. Don't miss out on this valuable episode! Tune in, subscribe, and share with anyone who could benefit from these powerful practices. Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more! Follow us on Instagram @BreakingBarriersThePodcast and stay updated with the latest episodes and tips.

Welcome back to "Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast" with your hosts Lizzie and Camila! In this exciting episode, we are joined by Daniel Martinez, a Certified Integrative Health & Nutrition Coach passionate about biohacking and mental well-being. In this episode, Daniel shares his personal journey with anxiety and sleep issues and how these challenges sparked his passion for wellness and natural health solutions. Dive deep into the concept of biohacking and discover practical tips to optimize your health and mental well-being. Daniel sheds light on the critical gut-brain connection, explaining how gut health can significantly impact your mental state. Learn about the importance of sleep hygiene, proper hydration, and the benefits of a balanced diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and superfoods. He also discusses the role of nutrients like magnesium in supporting mental clarity and cognitive function. Highlights include: Understanding biohacking and its impact on mental well-being The gut-brain connection and the importance of gut health Practical tips for managing anxiety and improving sleep hygiene The role of refined sugars, caffeine, and alcohol in mental health The benefits of probiotics, superfoods, and proper hydration Developing a routine protocol for overall wellness The importance of positive thoughts, affirmations, and mindfulness practices Join us for this informative and engaging conversation, packed with actionable insights to help you on your journey to better mental health. Don't miss out on this valuable episode! Tune in, subscribe, and share with anyone who could benefit from these powerful practices. Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more! Follow us on Instagram @BreakinBarriersThePodcast

Get ready for an exciting and transformative episode of "Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast" with hosts Camila and Lizzy! This week, we welcome the incredible Annie Vasquez, also known as Annie the Alchemist. Annie is a poet, writer, and former journalist featured in the Miami Herald, NBC6, and Good Morning America. She's also a certified expert in meditation, Reiki, and sound bowl therapy. Join us as Annie shares her inspiring journey from teaching to becoming a full-time writer and wellness advocate. Discover how she harnessed the power of affirmations, prayer, and meditation to manifest her dreams and navigate through life's pressures. Learn the importance of maintaining an attitude of gratitude, trusting the journey, and believing in positive outcomes. This episode is packed with actionable insights on developing a daily routine that includes journaling, breath work, and mindfulness. Annie explains how grounding yourself, practicing patience, and using positive words can significantly impact your mental health. She also delves into the power of chakras, coping mechanisms, and the significance of being flexible with your manifestations. Highlights include: Annie's transformative journey and the role of affirmations and prayer in manifesting dreams The importance of gratitude, patience, and trusting the process Practical tips on meditation, breath work, and using affirmations to shift energy How to ground yourself and develop a positive mindset through routine practices The impact of positive words and thoughts on mental health and well-being Whether you're new to these practices or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is filled with valuable tools to help you on your mental health journey. Don't miss out on this uplifting and empowering conversation! Be sure to tune in, subscribe, and share with anyone who could benefit from these powerful practices.

In this engaging follow-up episode, Lizzy and Camila continue their conversation with Alicia and Edward Boateng, diving deeper into their inspiring journey. Alicia, a renowned celebrity cup designer, shares how her obsession with coffee led to the creation of empowering and beautiful cup designs. She opens up about her passion for uplifting women and the role of perseverance in achieving her goals. Edward, a top leader with the Miami Association of Realtors, discusses the importance of balance in their personal and professional lives. You will learn about the Boatengs' branding business, the power of manifestation, and the significance of starting the day with gratitude. Alicia's morning routine, inspired by Mel Robbins' 5-4-3-2-1 rule, provides actionable tips for setting a positive tone for the day. The episode also touches on the dynamics of working together as a couple and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. Join us for an inspiring conversation that offers valuable insights into building a successful business, maintaining a healthy marriage, and empowering yourself and others along the way.

Join us for a powerful and heart-wrenching episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, where we sit down with Edward and Alicia Boateng. We split their story in two part episodes. This is part one, where this incredible power couple shares their profound journey through unimaginable loss and the road to healing. Edward opens up about the sudden and tragic loss of his son and first wife, discussing the unique challenges men face when dealing with grief and depression, especially within cultural contexts that often discourage emotional expression. Alicia adds her perspective on resilience and the importance of finding strength in faith and therapy. Together, they reveal the pivotal role of therapy in their lives and how maintaining faith has been a cornerstone of their recovery. Their story is not just about surviving loss but thriving through it, offering hope and insights for anyone navigating their own grief. Tune in to hear how Edward and Alicia balance their personal and professional lives while supporting each other and their family. This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and the enduring human spirit. Stay tuned for part two!

In this impactful episode of Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast, join hosts Lizzy and Camilla for a transformative conversation with Emily Janas, Education & Prevention Manager at Women in Distress. This discussion unveils the hidden facets of domestic violence, from psychological tactics to economic constraints that trap survivors. Emily provides invaluable insights into recognizing the early signs of abuse and the comprehensive support structures that empower survivors towards recovery and independence. Through stories of resilience and the vital role of community support, this episode is a beacon for anyone touched by domestic violence, offering hope and pathways to safety. Tune in to learn how breaking the silence is the first step toward healing and change.

Unlock the secrets to a balanced life with Dr. Abbey Hernandez, our expert holistic chiropractor, in this eye-opening episode of 'Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast.' Dive deep into the synergy between your nervous system and mental health, and explore innovative ways to harmonize your body and mind. Dr. Abbey sheds light on holistic health practices that not only alleviate physical pain but also enhance emotional well-being. Tune in to discover transformative insights and practical advice on nurturing your whole self for a healthier, more vibrant life.

Join us on this profound episode of 'Breaking Barriers: The Mental Health Podcast,' where we delve into the remarkable life of Maria Martinez Guzman, Executive Vice President of Univision Network News. From her harrowing escape from Cuba during the Mariel boatlift to her rise as a media powerhouse, Maria shares the relentless spirit and deep resilience that propelled her. In this episode, we explore how Maria's early experiences shaped her approach to journalism, her commitment to mentoring young women in the industry, and her philosophy of never taking 'no' for an answer. Discover how Maria's story embodies our podcast's mission to tackle mental health barriers through empowerment and education. Her journey from a young girl with big dreams in Cuba to a visionary leader in America is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of giving voice to the voiceless.

In this inaugural episode of "Breaking Barriers: A Mental Health Podcast," hosts Lizzy and Camila warmly welcome listeners into their world of mental wellness and self-discovery. With Lizzy's extensive experience in psychology and Camila's fresh insights as a newly graduated mental health nurse practitioner, they lay down the foundation for a series dedicated to breaking the stigmas surrounding mental health. Join them as they share personal stories of loss, triumph, and the everyday challenges that shape their understanding of mental health. From anxiety and depression to the empowerment of education and community support, this episode is a call to all seeking a deeper connection and understanding of their own mental health journey. Tune in and become part of a community ready to transform the conversation around mental wellness.