Finding Contentment

In this episode, we'll explore the unique pressures they endure, from traumatic incidents and long shifts to the unrelenting weight of constant vigilance. More importantly, we'll discuss practical coping strategies, available support resources, and how we, as a society, can do better in recognizing and addressing their needs. Whether you're a first responder, have a loved one in the field, or simply want to understand the unseen struggles these heroes face better, this conversation is for you.Dr. Jones earned her B.S. from Mansfield University (2006), M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Marywood University (2009), and Doctorate of Psychology from Immaculata University (2014). She completed her post-doctoral fellowship at Catawba Hospital, specializing in inpatient treatment for adults and geriatrics. With over a decade of clinical experience, she is credentialed with PsycPact for inter-jurisdictional telehealth and specializes in trauma and PTSD treatment for civilians and law enforcement. Dr. Jones also served as Clinical Director for Virginia State Police's Critical Incident Stress Management team.

In today's episode, we'll discuss the stress challenges that today's teens and young adults encounter. From academic pressures and social media overload to navigating relationships and an uncertain future, we'll explore the key stressors shaping this generation. Whether you're a teen, a parent, or simply interested in understanding these issues, this episode is an opportunity to learn, connect, and take action. Many of these stressors overlap, intensifying their effects on mental health and overall well-being.Dr. Don is a licensed psychologist with over 40 years of experience in counseling psychology and marriage and family therapy. He has held prominent roles, including Founding Clinical Director at Remuda Ranch Center for Eating Disorders and Clinical and Training Director at Gatehouse Therapeutic Health Services. Dr. Don specializes in psychological assessment, eating disorders, addictions, men's issues, trauma, and integrating psychology with a Christian worldview. He is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness. Since 1995, Dr. Don has supervised counseling trainees and values teaching, training, and supervision in his practice. Known for his compassion, insight, and humor, he leads Durham Psychology Group in Phoenix, AZ, offering in-person and telehealth services. He is an approved Clinical Supervisor with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners and supervises practicum students, interns, and licensed associates.

Loss is a shared human experience, yet its effects on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being are deeply personal. This episode explores how loss can trigger a complex stress response, often manifesting as grief, anxiety, or uncertainty, challenging our sense of stability and identity.By understanding the stress of loss, we can develop healthier coping strategies, build supportive connections, and foster resilience in times of profound change. Through this discussion, we aim to cultivate compassion—for ourselves and others—as we navigate the emotional and physiological toll of loss on the path toward healing and growth.Tim Ringgold is a board-certified music therapist in Orange, CA. Tim holds an additional certificate in Hospice and Palliative Care music therapy, and has been facilitating Grief Retreats since 2007. Because of his own grief journey which he will speak about, Tim knows firsthand what it's like walking the road to recovery from grief. Tim is also the author of the book, Sonic Recovery: Harness the Power of Music to Stay Sober. He has provided music therapy to thousands of teens and adults in residential treatment, and is a sought-after international speaker, having shared the stage with some of the top minds on the subject of music, the brain, and personal growth, including Tony Robbins. Tim was the first person to give a TEDx talk on music therapy in and is a former Regional President of the American Music Therapy Association.

In this episode, we will discuss creating stronger family bonds. Family dynamics can often be a double-edged sword when it comes to stress. On one hand, family relationships can be a source of tension—whether from conflicts, misunderstandings, or the pressures of meeting expectations. On the other hand, family is frequently our sanctuary during difficult times. They provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a foundation for resilience when stress becomes overwhelming.  You can read her full article 'Resilient Families: Creating a Stronger Family Bond' in the winter issue of Contentment magazine. Nancy Jernigan, PhD, LPC, FAIS, is an internationally recognized leader and educator known for leadership development and developing healthy teams amid growth and change. She is the President and co-founder of Hidden Value Group, LLC, and serves as a Board Member and Finance Director for Olive Branch International, Inc. Together, the two organizations provide healthcare, education, leadership development, and family support in risk and conflict zones on three continents.  Nancy gets personally involved internationally in teaching and training as a mental wellness expert, treating trauma and stress disorders. As an executive coach, leadership expert, and educator, she is passionate about developing and multiplying leaders. Nancy is also the co-author of Thin Spaces: Recognizing When God Breaks Through, which just released. She has also written for Contentment magazine which The American Institute of Stress publishes, and she has been a Fellow with AIS since 2024.

In this episode, we will discuss how family traditions can help us reduce stress. Our guest today is Linda Penkala who recently wrote an article in Contentment magazine (which can be found at stress.org) where she stated – “As a tightly woven unit or loosely gathered group of relatives, the family is our foundational place for lessons to be learned and where loving relationships begin. The stability of parents, grandparents, and extended family offers a solid ground of stability and connections. “ Linda Penkala is LMT  and her company Optimum Health for Life is a wellness company that offers health and wellness presentations virtually or in person, and therapeutic massage incorporating aromatherapy, light therapy, and Thai massage. Her passion and heart for holistic lifestyle choices can be found through published articles on her website, www.lindapenkala.com, and also in Linda's book The Pause to Relax Ladies for Robust Heart Health. Blending her first career as a jockey with her current one as a LMT for 37 years reveals powerful analogies regarding speed, stress, and the results of not paying attention to making proactive lifestyle choices to prevent cardiovascular disease, our #1 killer. Linda's holistic self-regulation modalities help lessen stress, enhance clarity through breath work, and help people find a peaceful work/life balance. 

Guest - Dr. Josh Briley  In this episode, we welcome Dr. Josh Briley, an esteemed psychologist and advocate for mental health awareness, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges men face when it comes to emotional well-being. Together, we are exploring how men's mental health is misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and ineffectively treated, and how these systemic issues have led to what can only be described as a public health crisis.From societal stigmas to gaps in our healthcare system, we'll uncover the factors contributing to this crisis and, more importantly, discuss what we can do to address it. This is a conversation for everyone—whether you're a man navigating these challenges yourself, a loved one looking for ways to support the men in your life, or simply someone who believes mental health is a fundamental part of human health.

In this podcast we explore the powerful link between mental health and physical well-being. Dr. Pleener will discuss how life's stressful events, big and small, can shape our mental state, affect our bodies, and alter our overall health. We'll talk about the science behind the brain-body connection and discuss what happens when stress goes unchecked, from anxiety and burnout to chronic illness. Join us as we discover strategies to manage stress, foster resilience, and take control of our mental and physical health for a more balanced life. Dr. Andrew Pleener is a board-certified integrative psychiatrist and co-founder of the #SameHere and #STARR Alliances, both leading a global Mental Health movement in integrative mental health. Through #SameHere Global, he partners with prominent organizations including The American Institute of Stress to raise awareness about the physical impacts of life events on mental health and promote proactive measures for psychological resilience.   As Program Director of MUIH's S.T.A.R.R. Certification Program, Dr. Pleener oversees a comprehensive education initiative exploring the intersections of mental and physical health and the science behind self-help healing modalities.   He co-founded 5in5, Inc., a mental health consulting and digital therapeutics firm, and is a sought-after speaker on the "brain-body connection" at mental health summits, podcasts, and corporate events.   Dr. Pleener also founded Regional Psychiatry, a telehealth company providing virtual integrative mental health services across Florida, Maryland, and Colorado. Regional Psychiatry's team of integrative psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and STARR coaches deliver STARR Exercises, a comprehensive approach to care that integrates mind-body exercises and psychotherapies, promoting holistic wellness and optimal mental health.

Being an EMT is one of the most demanding and high-pressure jobs out there. From the moment they respond to a call, EMTs are faced with life-or-death decisions, traumatic scenes, and the responsibility of saving lives—all while navigating their own emotions and fatigue. In this episode, we will talk about the unique stressors EMTs experience, the long-term effects on their mental health, and what can be done to support these vital first responders. Whether you're an EMT yourself or just curious about what happens behind the sirens, this episode is for you. Stay tuned as we unpack the weight that comes with being on the front lines of emergency care.

In recognition of September being Suicide Prevention Month, in our latest episode, we will be discussing suicide prevention and more specifically the vital work of crisis counselors with guest Brett Cotter.    Suicide is a tragic reality that impacts millions of people worldwide, affecting not only individuals but also families and entire communities. Despite the stigma often associated with it, fostering open dialogue and understanding is essential in preventing such tragedies and providing hope to those in need. We are joined by Brett Cotter, a prominent expert in mental health, stress management, and suicide prevention, who will share his insights on how each of us can contribute to saving lives.

In this episode, we will delve into practical and effective methods to manage and reduce stress. Our guest Aaron Solly is  a mental wellness coach, best selling amazon author, of "Engage, Connect, Grow". He is also a mental health advocate. Whether you're dealing with workplace pressures, personal challenges, or the general anxieties of everyday life, our expert guests will provide valuable insights and actionable tips to help you navigate these stressful waters more smoothly. Join us as we uncover strategies that can transform your stress into a source of strength and resilience. Aaron Solly is a Mental Wellness Coach, Best Selling Amazon author, of "Engage, Connect, Grow" He is also a Mental Health Advocate, father of two amazing boys and husband.  At 37 years old, he found himself overwhelmed and in a deep depression in the basement of the townhouse he owned at the time. He was working in the financial services industry feeling stressed out and not happy with his career. His first marriage was failing.  His first son was 2 years old.  His world felt like it was falling apart all around him.  On that day, he decided to shift his perspective from “Why is this happening to me?” to “What is this for?”

In this episode we explore the profound impact of stress on families and uncover paths to resilience and recovery. We delve into a topic that affects countless households: the stress of broken families. From divorce to estrangement, to war, natural disasters can leave lasting scars, affecting our emotional well-being for a long time. The emotional toll can be overwhelming, but understanding and addressing these stresses is key to healing. Join us as we talk to expert Jeff Jernnigan as he shares personal stories, and offers practical strategies for rebuilding trust and connection in the aftermath of family fractures. Together, we can navigate these challenges and find hope on the other side.

The human stress burden is a multifaceted issue impacting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Chronic stress stems from various sources, including work pressures, financial difficulties, personal relationships, and health concerns, often leading to detrimental effects on the body and mind. Prolonged stress can contribute to a host of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, and weakened immune function. Additionally, stress can impair cognitive functions, reducing productivity and quality of life. Addressing this burden requires a comprehensive approach that includes stress management techniques, supportive social networks, and professional mental health care to mitigate its pervasive impact on individuals and society.

The Stressed Mom   Joining us for this episode is a special guest  Dr. Jennifer Bourgeois       As we approach Mother's Day with this episode, our focus shifts towards the intersection of stress and motherhood. Over the past five decades, the landscape of motherhood has undergone significant transformations. Today's mothers are tasked with navigating a delicate balance between the demands of work and home, all while striving to carve out moments for their own self-care.

As you know this podcast is dedicated to exploring and promoting stress and stress related issues. In our latest episode we will be discussing suicide prevention and more specifically the vital work of veteran crisis counselors.  Brett Cotter, an author and Stress Is Gone founder, has over 20 years of experience helping people release emotional pain. He facilitates groups at Omega, Kripalu, Tibet House, & The Himalayan Institute. Brett is AAETS certified, his method is certified by The American Institute of Stress, and he is IMMA accredited. He certifies suicide prevention specialists, meditation teachers, and trauma recovery coaches. Brett is Meditation Magazines' Trauma Specialist. We are proud to have him as a Fellow of AIS. 

With guest Chantal Donnelly Our guest today wrote on her website ‘ People believe we can think our way out of stress, but stress originates below the skull. Body-based tools are key to managing anxiety. It is essential that you recognize when your stress responses are helpful and when your reactions aren't serving you. Learn to listen to your body so you can reap the benefits of stress while minimizing its negative effects. Regain the sense of calm, ease, and openness you are looking for. ‘

Joining us for this episode is a special guest Laura Barrett, MBA, BSN, RN     In this episode, we will discuss the world of alternative stress management tools and techniques. We will navigate the realms of stress relief, incorporating not only mindfulness practices but also delving into the transformative power of plant-based and integrative medicine. Navigating critical illness and chronic diseases caused by stress can be an overwhelming journey, both for individuals and their loved ones. At The American Institute of Stress, we recognize the profound impact that these health challenges can have on mental well-being. We believe in empowering patients not only through conventional medical treatments but also by integrating alternative strategies. We encourage people to explore the diverse approaches that can empower individuals facing health challenges, but should always educate themselves before choosing any treatment.

In Today's podcast, we will delve deep into the world of performing, creativity, inspiration, and the unique stressors that artists face. From the relentless pursuit of perfection to the emotional rollercoaster fueled by the stress of rejection and self-doubt. We'll delve into the resilience that helps artists push through, the unyielding determination they possess, and the unwavering passion that keeps their creative fires burning, even amidst all that stress. Nick Moulton is an award-winning actor, musician, graduate student studying Clinical Mental Wellness Counseling, and mental wellness advocate based out of NYC.  Originally from a military family based in New England, Nick has performed internationally and domestically, working predominantly on theatrical pieces as a singer, actor, and multi-instrumentalist. With more than a decade of experience and success in the commercial entertainment industry, it became apparent the unique stressors and lifestyle that artists endure is relatively unexplored from a clinical standpoint. While he works on completing his graduate degree, Nick continues to perform on stages across the United States and leads conversations about mental wellness in the entertainment industry.  www.Nick-Moulton.com

Joining us for this episode is special guest Myke Cole    PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop in some individuals after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Traumatic events that can lead to PTSD include, but are not limited to, combat exposure, physical or sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or the sudden death of a loved one.

Have you ever had one of those days at work when you feel like you're juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle on a tightrope? Yeah, we've all been there! This episode of our podcast is about workplace stress. We will be diving into the daily grind and how it can sometimes make you feel like you're drowning in a sea of deadlines, emails, and office politics. But fear not, because we're here to share stories, tips, and a dash of humor to help you keep your sanity intact in the corporate jungle. So, grab your coffee or tea, find a comfy spot, and let's talk about the good, the bad, and the downright crazy aspects of workplace stress! Ken Spencer formed HR Service, Inc. in 2004 providing HR Solutions for thousands of employers across the country. Ken taught compliance, leadership, and HR courses for Westminster College and the University of Phoenix.  He has over 25 years of compliance and HR experience. He has also earned a master's degree in human resource management from the University of Utah and holds bachelor's degrees in marketing and finance. https://www.hrserviceinc.com/

In the our lives, relationships play a vital role in shaping our emotional well-being and overall happiness. Whether it's our bond with a romantic partner, family members, friends, or colleagues, the connections we form with others significantly impact our mental and emotional state. However, like any aspect of life, relationships are not immune to challenges, and one of the most common and formidable obstacles is stress. Stress can permeate every layer of a relationship, exerting its influence in subtle and overt ways, and its effects can be profound. Understanding the dynamics of stress and how it intertwines with relationships is crucial for fostering healthy and resilient connections with those we hold dear. Today we will delve into the interplay between stress and relationships, uncovering its causes, manifestations, and, most importantly, discovering strategies to navigate these tumultuous waters to build stronger, more fulfilling bonds with our loved ones. Thais Gibson is an author, speaker and leader in the personal development field. She has been recognized by Time Business News, The New York Post, Yahoo! News, Success Magazine and many other outlets for her cutting-edge research on the subconscious mind and personal transformation. She has accumulated over 8 million views across her social platforms and has helped thousands of people create tangible change in their lives.  Thais has her MA, BA, and is certified in over 13 different modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, NLP, Somatic Processing, and Trauma Work. Through her academic training and client-based research, Thais has created renowned courses for personal development, growth, and relationships. She is also the founder of Gibson Integrated Attachment Theory, which empowers individuals to heal different attachments in their lives and reprogram any limiting thoughts and behaviors. These teachings have been distilled into the in-depth courses inside of The Personal Development School. 

Overcoming Anxiety and Stress with Renee Mill" is a transformative podcast that offers practical guidance to free listeners from the burdens of anxiety and stress. This podcast features senior clinical psychologist, renowned mental health expert and corporate speaker, Renee Mill, as a special guest. Together, we explore the origins of anxiety and stress, provide evidence-based strategies, mindfulness techniques, and mindset shifts to reclaim inner peace and joy. Listeners are encouraged to join a supportive community on this journey towards growth, healing, and resilience. The podcast promises a life-changing adventure and a path to a happier, more fulfilling life. Tune in, subscribe, and embark on this transformative journey to overcome anxiety and stress. Renee is a senior clinical psychologist, author, and corporate speaker who is passionate about helping people overcome anxiety and stress. With over 20 years of experience, she has become a leading expert in the field of mental health and emotional intelligence. Renée is the author of three best-selling books, including Anxiety Free, Drug Free, Parenting Without Anger, and No Sweat Parenting. Her work has been featured on various media outlets, including the Today Show, Sunrise, and The Morning Show.   Renée's mission is to empower people emotionally, in their relationships, and at work. She has developed effective courses that are practical and change people's lives for the better. Her pioneering program for the treatment of anxiety has helped countless individuals overcome their fears and live a more fulfilling life. Renée is also a corporate speaker and has worked with individuals and groups in organizations to promote workplace wellness and stress management.

Joining us today is Dr. Daniel Andreae. With over twenty years of professional experience in the education sector, Dr. Andreae has established himself as a highly distinguished and esteemed expert in several areas, health, neuroscience, psychology, advocacy, and community organization. He has committed a considerable part of his career to studying, supporting, and advocating for those with brain issues, especially Alzheimer's serving as an insightful and dynamic leader. He has been recognized by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto with a Lifetime Achievement Award, Outstanding Service Award for Leadership, an award presented by the Chair of the International Alzheimer Society Princess Yasmin Khan, and later a Pioneer Award. He was the first Executive Director of the Society and Chair of the Patrons Council. Dr. Daniel Andreae has been recognized as Most Influential in Education and Research by The International Association of Who's Who and he is a FELLOW of the American Institute of Stress.

Finding Contentment A Podcast by The American Institute of Stress  Hosted By William Heckman MS, DAIS, Executive Director AIS Joining us today are our special guest Linda Penkala   Linda has 34+ years as a Licensed Massage Therapist in Maryland, and a member of the ABMP professional association.   Linda's greatest joy is to help others connect the dots to naturally embrace health and wellness on the road to longevity. As a wellness catalyst through published articles, giving presentations, offering aromatherapy massages, and her recent book The Pause to Relax Ladies for Robust Heart Health, she finds her heart's passion is to help people relax, and be more intentional with lifestyle choices. She discovered the fact that heart disease is the #1 life stealer of men and women, but when research revealed that women surpassed men of dying of cardiovascular disease, it became apparent after her medical moment of Atrial fibrillation, that she needed to get the word out! Her message is delivered in an engaging way by drawing from her years as a jockey, and the analogies of both careers by highlighting lessons learned from horses and clients, then share holistic selfcare modalities to help reduce stress and find balance and enjoy peace. Her book ~ The Pause to Relax Ladies, For Robust Heart Health, which of course you can find on Amazon.

Welcome to an extraordinary episode of Finding Contentment filled with exceptional guests. If you're a regular viewer, get ready for a unique experience today. We are thrilled to have the incredibly talented members of ASH HOLLOW, a band that puts a significant emphasis on addressing stress and mental health. Their insights and perspectives promise to make this show truly remarkable. For more info: https://ashhollowband.com/

On this show, host Will Heckman and Douglas Mulhall have a conversation about whether we could live longer and better if the damage triggered by the hidden stress that affects all of us was reversed.That is the question our guest asks in his new book.“Discovering the Nature of Longevity-Restoring the Body by targeting hidden Stress.”Also, we discuss why standard therapies temporarily relieve heart disease symptoms but don't repair the damage. Treatments still mostly focus on cholesterol, hypertension, age, and smoking, but the process is also driven by our body's reaction to environmental stress. 

On this show, host Will Heckman and Dr. Yair Maman have a conversation about a topic that is near and dear to our hearts, education, and the educational system. Few people outside of the system realize the pressures put on those who are involved with the teaching and care of our young adults. And for the students, previous research indicates that unchecked academic-related stress can reduce academic achievement, decrease motivation and increase the risk of school dropout. The longer-term impacts, which include reduced likelihood of sustainable employment, cost governments billions of dollars each year. A conversation about the impact of academic-related stress, including a discussion of the impact on students' learning capacity and academic performance, mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, sleep disturbances, and substance use is long overdue.

A Free Podcast With Guests Rita Hitching and Dr. Lisa Lampe. On this show, we will be talking about one of the worst problems that I think stress can cause, insomnia! High levels of stress impair sleep by prolonging how long it takes to fall asleep and fragmenting sleep. Sleep loss triggers our body's stress response system, leading to an elevation in stress hormones, namely cortisol, which further disrupts sleep. So, what do we do? Well, I'm glad you asked and you have come to the right place. AIS has many articles about sleep, one of them was written by one of our guests today for the Winter 2022 issue of Contentment magazine which can be found at stress.org.

On this show, we have always strived to bring you the leaders in the field of stress, and mental health. Today we have succeeded and are going to speak with one of the best. In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Brett Cotter talk about how you can break free from stress and the anxiety it can cause. We also find out information about the Anxiety & Trauma Recovery Retreats that Brett offers. Brett Cotter is an author, and founder of Stress Is Gone, which helps people release stress, and anxiety and heal trauma. He has taught his signature method in Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, schools, non-profits, and military bases. His easy-to-use techniques help people go from feeling overwhelmed to empowered with confidence and clarity in life. He is the author of “3 Keys to Managing PTSD: The Warrior's Guide to Overcoming Combat Trauma”, which of course can be found on Amazon and he is accredited by the International Mindfulness & Meditation Alliance, certified by the American Institute of Experts in Traumatic Stress, and we are proud to say that his core method is certified by the American Institute of Stress.

Workplace Stress A Free Podcast With Guest Nick Jonsson In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Nick Jonsson talk about job stress. Numerous studies show that job stress is far and away a significant source of stress for American adults and has escalated progressively over the past few decades. Increased levels of job stress as assessed by the perception of having little control but lots of demands have been demonstrated to be associated with increased heart attack rates, hypertension, and other disorders. Nick Jonsson, #1 International Best Selling Author, is dedicated to raising awareness and eliminating the stigma around the phenomenon of executive loneliness. He has identified that feelings of isolation and depression—personal struggles that he, himself, has had to grapple with and conquer—are much more widespread than we think. As the co-founder and managing director of the Singapore branch of EGN (Executives' Global Network), Nick is passionate about matching senior executives in confidential peer groups where they can help each other face challenges and identify opportunities.

When it comes to good health and stress relief, physical activity matters. Exercise and physical activity improve overall fitness, body mass index, and cardiovascular and muscular health. But just as important is that studies show exercise can relieve stress, reduce depression, and improve cognitive function. Joining host Will Heckman is someone that has made fitness and exercise his life's work. Bryce Henson is CEO of Fit Body Boot Camp, the world's fastest-growing fitness boot camp franchise.

In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Yasmine Mustafa talk about workplace safety and stress. Harassment and assaults against staff are rising. How workers feel impacts their performance, wellness, and liability risk. Same for an organization's attraction, retention, and productivity of employees. People feeling stress about safety in the workplace has recently led to a significant increase in mental health issues. Nearly half of Americans in a Kaiser Family Foundation poll said their mental health took a turn for the worse. And in April 2020, the month after the coronavirus infested the U.S., the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Hotline experienced a 1,000% year-over-year increase. To help relieve some of that stress, many organizations already recognize the value of supporting their workers' mental health through their employee benefits.

A Free Podcast With Guest Rick Olderman In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Rick Olderman talk about pain and its relation to stress, and how it affects our everyday lives. Living with pain day after day can be stressful. It can also lead to mental health problems. In fact, one-third of adults with arthritis have anxiety or depression. Stress has been known to make chronic pain worse. Stress can cause your muscles to tense or spasm, which increases pain. When you feel stressed, levels of the hormone cortisol rise. This can cause inflammation and pain over time. Rick graduated from physical therapy school in 1996. After failing to help his patients adequately, he realized that standard physical therapy education left him unprepared to truly help people with chronic pain or nagging injuries. As a result, Rick has spent the last 20+ years developing his pioneering approach.

In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Eric Kussin talk about Eric's journey from a severe bout of PTSD, along with symptoms of anxiety and depression. His issues came essentially “out of nowhere” and left him almost permanently in bed, and with severe cognitive impairment, for just over two and a half years. Listen as he speaks about how he found a way to climb out of his abyss, he vowed to spend the rest of his life focused on changing the global conversation through mental health advocacy. During his battle, Eric was pumped with over 50 combinations of psychotropic drugs, 22 sessions of TMS therapy, and 12 sessions of ECT “shock therapy“ only to find himself worse off with each passing treatment. Eric Kussin Eric Kussin is a 20-year professional sports executive. After five years with the NBA League Office, he rose to the ranks with the expansion Chicago Sky, and Phoenix Suns. He then switched over to the NHL, working with the New Jersey Devils, & Florida Panthers.

In this episode of Finding Contentment, host Will Heckman and special guest Udo Erasmus talk about Stress and its connection to our diet. Our guest is Udo Erasmus a pioneer of the health and wellness industry having created FLAX OIL and the Healthy Fats Movement. He is also the co-founder of the UDO'S CHOICE supplement brand, a global leader in cutting-edge health products having sold tens of millions of bottles of healthy oils, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. Udo is an accomplished author including Fats that Heal Fats that Kill which has sold over 250,000 copies worldwide.

A Free Podcast With guest Jessica Harrington. In this episode, we talk about how people tend to respond to a stressor by obsessing about the situation. You may even talk about the situation with others. It's not uncommon for a person experiencing a stressor to have physical symptoms.

A Free Podcast With Guest James Porter In this episode, we talk about our new stress assessment tool that has been added to the many things that are offered at stress.org. The Rosch Stress Profiler was developed by a team of top experts led by the legendary stress scientist and author, Paul Rosch, MD, protégé of Professor Hans Selye, who was a scientist and the father of the original stress concept, along with Dr. Maynard Brussman, a leader in executive coaching, and by our guest, James Porter, a true pioneer who has developed numerous tools to help people understand and manage stress.

On her website our guest, Dr. Tammie Chang wrote: Women who become physicians are suffering from record alarming rates of burnout, emotional exhaustion, stressors, and even suicide. What we do not learn as students, trainees, or attending physicians — what is not imparted to us in our long and arduous education and training — is the understanding that in order to best serve as the healers and physicians we have the potential to become, we have to first be strong and healthy in our own body, mind, and spirit. “Do no harm” has to apply to ourselves first. Listen to this great conversation that affects all of us.

A Free Podcast With Guest Ell Harlander, MEd, DAIS Wellness has several dimensions, including emotional well-being (coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships) and physical well-being (recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep), and being resilient. On her website, our guest wrote “Resilience is defined as the ability to navigate and recover from challenges” It is a great conversation about wellness and well-being including conflict resolution and holding on to tension. stress.org

A Free Podcast With Guest Dr. Lewis Coleman Our guest wrote a book which describes what may one day be remembered as the most important theoretical advance in medical history. The worldwide warfare of the 20th century produced an era of research rigor, vigor, integrity, and progress that inspired a prominent physician researcher named Hans Selye to hypothesize that a “stress mechanism” regulates physiology and explains disease. His concept was and remains the most promising prospect for an effective theory of medicine, and it inspired an intense international search for the stress mechanism that was abandoned and mostly forgotten after years of fruitless failure. However, powerful new theories typically arrive long before evidence becomes available to confirm them. Another 30 years of accumulating evidence from unrelated research has now enabled the Dr. Lewis Coleman to identify the stress mechanism. It explains physiology and disease, and fulfills all the predictions and expectations of previous stress researchers. It revolutionizes medicine and provide powerful new treatments that will enable health, longevity, and freedom from the eternal curse of disease, suffering, and premature death

In this episode host, Will Heckman and guest Katie Kimball are talking about cooking as a stress reliever. Specifically cooking with our kids. Making a home-cooked meal is a great way to make sure that our families are getting the proper nutrients and nourishment we need. But what might not be as obvious is that cooking (or baking) can also be an effective way to relieve stress. It's an opportunity to be creative, stimulate the brain, and, if we involve them, connect with our kids. stress.org

A Free Podcast With Guest Beth Romanski In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, we discuss the global pandemic, prolonged remote work, and learning. We also discuss a struggling economy, a tense sociopolitical environment, and the increasing mental health challenges as a result of this unprecedented situation and associated uncertainty in the past few years.

A Free Podcast With Guest Dr. Cynthia Ackrill In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, we discuss how research shows that HOW we talk about stress makes a big difference in how we experience it. Who knew? We were definitely not taught that or many other principles or skills that would help us negotiate real life and its challenges. Covid has certainly illuminated our shortcomings, leaving almost everyone more stressed! So, how can we leverage this latest research to empower our kids (and us) in the face of stress? Join us as we discuss approaches that will build your children's resilience and empower them to thrive in the face of challenges.

In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, we discuss how our brains can evolve, but not as fast as our world is changing. This creates a mismatch with our environment. This is why AIS produced the documentary “Mismatched-your brain under stress” To combat this we need to know how our brains can get hijacked, what tools we can use to become better aligned with the way stress affects our body and mind, and an understanding of how to recognize and move beyond knee jerk reactions to achieve our full potential. Our guest Frank Forencich has just written a book called “Beware False Tigers: Strategies and Antidotes for an Age of Stress” which really speaks to this issue.

Join Dr. Ron Rufo as he discusses how being a police officer today exposes the people we count on to serve and protect us to enormous amounts of stress. That was true back in the '80s when I was part of the NYPD and seems even more so now. Be it an officer patrolling a high-crime neighborhood in a big city, a small-town cop responding to a bar fight, or a homicide detective arriving at the scene of a multiple murder, the common factor in their jobs is stress. Let's face it they work in environments where bad things happen. In fact, it is their job to run toward those bad situations, while others run away!

In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, we discuss how music can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory. According to a 2013 Cochrane review of 26 studies involving more than 2,000 people, music reliably reduces anxiety among people preparing to undergo surgical operations. And the emotional benefits of music are not confined to the OR. The field of music therapy has exploded in recent decades, and trained music therapists are now helping people manage anxiety disorders and other physical or psychological conditions — everything from pain disorders to PTSD and of course stress. Tim Ringgold is a board-certified music therapist, author, and host of the Reduce Your Stress Podcast and Summit. Tim is also an award-winning international speaker, having shared the stage with some of the top minds on music, the brain, and personal development, including Tony Robbins. Tim was the first person to give a TEDx talk on music therapy in 2012 and is also a former Regional President of the American Music Therapy Association. He is also a Diplomate of The American Institute of Stress. You can find out more about Tim and all he does by going to https://www.timringgold.com/

One of the world's top neuroscientists Dr. Evian Gordon who is the Founder, Chairman, and Chief Medical Officer of Total Brain, discusses the role of emotions in stress. Listen to his insightful knowledge of integrative neuroscience. In this episode, he also reiterates what he speaks about in the AIS documentary " Mismatched", and about his mission is to improve mental health and brain performance through brain-based self-awareness and training. Hosted by AIS Executive Director - Will Heckman

In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, Steve Becker will discuss a free-access website, which introduces an innovative approach to significantly reducing college admissions stress. Whether you're a student or parent concerned about college admission stress or a professional helping these individuals, this episode will provide you with a fresh approach to combatting this all-too-common affliction.

In a new, free podcast from The American Institute of Stress, Dr. Robert Carter will discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed all of our lives in a multitude of ways. After such a long period of being stuck inside, limiting exposure to friends and family, missing milestones in our lives, such as funerals, weddings, and births, along with juggling obligations at home and at work, is it any surprise that many of us are dealing with overwhelming stress, frustration, anger, and more? Listen as we discuss the options and choices we can all make to get "unstuck."

New free podcast from The American Institute of Stress. In this episode, we will be talking with Dr. Margie Warrell about why things feel more stressful now. Increasingly more people have been bringing work laptops and projects home with them at the end of the day. All too many of us are familiar with the drill of checking emails before bed and looking at the news at all hours due to smartphones and social media. All of these things and a lot of others have just added to our feeling so stressed. Listen to the insightful thoughts of our guest to find out how we can help ourselves to learn how to stop feeling so stressed.

We will be talking with Tanya Peterson about Why the goal of "reducing stress" often doesn't work. What does it look like to eliminate stress in your life? No, it doesn't look like a made-for-television movie. No, it doesn't look like something only people with extra time and money can do. It looks like your life—but without any self-created stress triggers. We all need to develop a way to Identify stressors, and then have the tools to manage that stress. Tanya Peterson created Wellbeing & Words to empower people to transcend challenges, create a quality life regardless of circumstances, and provide an opportunity for relaxation and enjoyment. A former teacher and school counselor, she holds a master's degree in counseling with a school emphasis and is a National Certified Counselor. She has both personal and professional experience with mental health care. Tanya is also a prolific writer of books and articles that inform, empower, and entertain. She is a Diplomate with the American Institute of Stress, and as a recognized expert in stress, she has joined us in our commitment to advancing stress management. To learn more about Tanya go to – tanyajpeterson.com

Today we are talking about the ever-increasing stress our students are facing. We are going to be hearing from Dr. Jeannine Jannot. She is the author of an incredible book called The Disintegrating Student: Super Smart & Falling Apart. In this episode host, Will Heckman and Dr. Jannot explore an increasingly common phenomenon: we have these bright, successful students who suddenly hit a wall, and when they find their grades falling, they find themselves, without warning in a very stressful emotional upheaval.