Surviving Roots: A Crash Course in Turning Pain into Power

What if parenthood came with a delegation plan, a support team, and a mission statement? In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Christine Landis—former CEO turned intentional parenting strategist and founder of Peacock Parent—to unpack how executive-level planning, outsourcing, and mindset shifts can radically reduce burnout and bring joy back to motherhood. We explore: The hidden mental load modern parents carry How to apply “time is money” thinking to family life Why delegating isn't selfish—it's self-preservation How Christine's new membership platform Proxy is helping busy families reclaim joy and rest Christine Landis is a former CEO who sold her global company and retired at 36. She now helps parents stop glorifying burnout and start parenting with presence, purpose, and peace through her revolutionary platform Proxy—a delegation toolkit designed for modern families.

In this soulful episode of Surviving Roots, host Cari Fund welcomes Haitian-born artist and yoga teacher Anick Vorbe, author of the spiritual memoir My Drumbeats. Together, they explore how grief can become a sacred portal of awakening. Anick shares her healing journey through the sudden loss of her brother, her experiences with ayahuasca, and how writing this book became a way to reconnect with her voice, her culture, and her purpose.  We discuss plant medicine, raising conscious children, and what it means to write for the collective. This conversation is a heart-opening reminder that healing isn't about avoiding pain—it's about moving through it. We talked about: How losing her brother launched her into awakening Her journey with ayahuasca and natural healing Raising a son while breaking generational cycles What it means to create from pain, not in spite of it Listen in and rediscover your own rhythm. If you're grieving, growing, or searching for meaning—you'll feel seen in this episode.   Grab Anique's book My Drumbeats on Amazon.  Download my free guide to Bold Self-Growth and Living Visit my website www.cari.fund for more info.  Anick is happy to be part of Rythmia's  Life Enhancement Center's  program. This is her place of choice for ayahuasca.  Interested to learn more about ayahuasca, you can go directly to www.anickvorbe.com or her instagram profile  @anickvorbe. Just select the link and schedule a phone session with a Rythmia Life Enhancement Center representative.    

This week on Surviving Roots, wellness expert and digital fitness mentor Tracy Campoli joins us for an empowering conversation about redefining strength, beauty, and health — especially for women over 40. With over 300,000 YouTube subscribers and a thriving program called Total Body Transformation, Tracy shares her real-life journey from insecure dancer to thriving entrepreneur, wife, and mom.  We explore what movement really means, the myths she's ditching (yes, even cold plunges), and how confidence gets better with age — not worse. Tracy opens up about motherhood, hormones, body image, skincare, HRT, and how to build a consistent life rooted in joy. If you've ever felt disconnected from your body or unsure how to show up in this next chapter — this episode is for you. Tracy has been featured in major media outlets like Good Morning America, The Today Show, ABC7, USA Today, The Daily Mail, and The Sun, and her work has inspired hundreds of thousands of women to reclaim their bodies, confidence, and energy—especially through the unique challenges of perimenopause and life after 40. Follow Cari on Instagram: instagram.com/cari.fund Download Cari's free guide to bold self-growth & living intentionally: https://mailchi.mp/cari.fund/download-resource tracycampoli.com: tracycampoli.com Start TBT! tracycampolimembers.com Follow Tracy on Instagram: instagram.com/tracycampoli

This week on Surviving Roots, I sit down with spiritual healer and author Lauren Courtney to explore what it really looks like to heal from the inside out. Lauren shares her journey from being a medicated teen in New York to becoming a Miami-based energy healer, sound therapist, and author of Glow Up Your Chakras. Together, we unpack the truth about healing highs, spiritual awakenings, reconnecting with your authentic self, and how grief can crack you open to your life's purpose. If you've ever wondered whether you're truly healing or just performing a new version of self-improvement — this episode is for you. We discuss: Chakras, trauma, and self-remembrance The dark side of awakening (and what comes after the “healing high”) Why you don't need crystals, ayahuasca, or a guru to start healing Moving from chaos to clarity — one choice at a time Tune in and walk away with inspiration, insight, and the reminder that your power lives in your truth. Listen on Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, YouTube + more. Connect with Cari Fund on Instagram: @cari.fund Connect with Lauren on Instagram: @iamlaurencourtney Download my free bold self-growth guide at www.cari.fund    

This week on Surviving Roots, I'm joined by Dr. Gertrude Lyons—master coach, podcast host, and author of Rewrite the Mother Code: From Sacrifice to Stardust. Her work is a deep call to reclaim the way we mother—not just our children, but ourselves. With features in The Guardian, Motherly, Thrive Global, Business Insider, and beyond, Dr. Lyons is leading a movement to challenge generational norms, uncover inherited beliefs, and help women rewrite the internal code we've been conditioned to live by. We talk about: The quieter symptoms of the mother wound. How generational trauma shows up in motherhood. Why “doing it all” doesn't equal doing it right. And how to reclaim joy, intuition, and enoughness in your own story. This is a powerful conversation about honesty, boundaries, identity, and breaking free from outdated definitions of caregiving. Whether you're a mother, mothering something, or reparenting yourself—you'll find a piece of yourself in this episode.

This week on Surviving Roots, I'm joined by the one and only Valeria Lipovetsky—a content creator, entrepreneur, podcast host, and mother of three whose grace and grit have built more than just a brand—they've sparked a movement. In this deeply honest conversation, Valeria and I talk about what it means to mother ourselves while mothering others, the silent pressure of perfectionism, and the generational healing it takes to raise kids differently than we were raised. We explore cultural legacies, family dynamics, reconnecting with biological roots, and the emotional journey of writing your truth. This episode is for anyone unpacking their upbringing, redefining strength, and learning to feel joy again.

This week on Surviving Roots, we're kicking off Mother's Day month with a truth bomb that's long overdue: not everyone celebrates this day with ease. Dr. Sherrie Campbell—nationally recognized psychologist, best-selling author of But It's Your Family…, and an unshakeable voice in the estrangement and healing space—returns for a raw, resonant conversation about grieving the mother you never had. Together, we unpack: The grief of being unloved while your mother is still alive How to release the fantasy of the mother you wish you had Why calling her by her first name can be an act of liberation Parenting your own children without repeating history And the truth about choosing peace over guilt If you've ever felt unseen, unloved, or emotionally orphaned, this episode is for you. Whether you're a mother, choosing not to be, or still learning how to mother yourself—you're not alone, and you're not wrong.

What if power didn't have to be loud—and grace was your secret strength? In this episode of Surviving Roots, host Cari Fund sits down with Julie Helms, global business leader and viral content creator, to explore what it really means to communicate with grace, lead with confidence, and set boundaries without losing your kindness. Julie shares her incredible journey from being the “Pitbull in Pumps” in the male-dominated oil & gas industry to becoming a powerful voice on composed communication and elegant authority. Together, we unpack how to stop walking on eggshells, what graceful strength looks like in real life, and how to handle everything from fubs (phone snubs) to backhanded compliments with confidence and composure. Whether you're navigating difficult relationships, trying to find your voice, or just want to feel more grounded in how you show up—this episode is your masterclass in grace, grit, and authentic power.

If you've ever found yourself deep in the drama of Mean Girl Moms on Instagram, chances are you've come across Dr. Noelle Santorelli. A licensed clinical psychologist and expert in relational aggression, Dr. Santorelli has spent over a decade helping high-achieving women break free from toxic family cycles, navigate covert bullying, and reclaim their peace. In this episode, we dive into: The psychology behind Mean Girl culture and why it doesn't end after high school How to recognize toxic friendships and set boundaries without guilt The link between childhood trauma and finding yourself in adult friend group drama What to do when your child is dealing with a mean girl Dr. Noelle's viral content, balancing motherhood, and why she's redefining what it means to be a modern psychologist This conversation is packed with insight, humor, and real-life tools to help you navigate tricky social dynamics. If you've ever questioned whether a friendship was truly healthy or found yourself stuck in social landmines, this episode is for you. Follow Dr. Noelle Santorelli on Instagram: @dr.noelle.santorelli Rate & Review the podcast on Apple and Spotify!

20 minutes. One microphone. And the truth I've never shared—until now. In this week's solo episode of Surviving Roots, I'm speaking words out loud that I've only ever carried in silence. The story of estrangement from my mother. The text I never thought I'd get. The moment I realized rejection wasn't about me—it was the door to peace. When a parent can't love you… it can either bury you or build you. This is the episode that's still healing me as I speak it.

In this captivating conversation, Cari Fund sits down with Dana Myers, a tarot reader, spellcaster, and ritual designer, to explore the magic of manifestation, intuition, and pleasure. Dana shares her journey from the sexual wellness industry to embracing the power of rituals and self-discovery. Together, they discuss the balance between hard work and manifestation, the importance of leaning into discomfort, and how simple daily practices can transform your life. Tune in for insights on harnessing your personal magic, trusting your intuition, and bringing more joy into your daily routine.

Are angels really with us? Internationally recognized spiritual teacher and bestselling author Kyle Gray joins Surviving Roots Podcast to talk about his latest book, Angels Are With You Now. Known for making spirituality accessible, Kyle shares how we can invite angelic support into our lives, strengthen our intuition, and recognize divine signs around us. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ Kyle's personal journey—from childhood encounters with angels to his global spiritual mission ✨ The power of angelic guidance and how to connect with your angels ✨ Why raising your vibration attracts higher support ✨ Signs from loved ones who have passed and how they continue to guide us ✨ How a single prayer can open the door to divine intervention Kyle also shares a powerful, life-changing message: We are never alone. The divine is always within reach.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Case Kenny—author, mindfulness expert, and host of the hit podcast New Mindset, Who Dis? Case has built a massive platform making mindset work simple, practical, and relatable. His viral affirmations, handwritten in bold red ink, have helped millions reframe their thoughts and take ownership of their lives. We dive into: The power of self-talk and how to stop labeling yourself in limiting ways Why clarity in relationships is everything The one-word shift that can change your entire outlook How to break free from overthinking and step into your power This episode is packed with wisdom, real talk, and powerful mindset tools you can apply immediately. Tune in now and start shifting the way you see yourself and your life.  

Cari Fund is a writer, podcast host, and bold advocate for self-growth, healing, and breaking cycles. Through Surviving Roots, she shares raw, unfiltered conversations about choosing yourself, setting boundaries, and rewriting the stories that no longer serve you—because healing isn't about perfection, it's about becoming who you were always meant to be. In her first-ever solo episode, she's sharing the real, raw moments that shaped her— How childhood trauma & toxic family dynamics tried to define her. Why walking away from her mom 15 years ago was her hardest but most empowering decision. How boundaries (even the painful ones) can heal more than just relationships—they heal YOU. Why the choices you fear the most are often the ones that change everything. A powerful first solo episode that dives deep into self-growth, healing, and the choices that redefine everything.   

Olivia Young—speaker, writer, healer, and founder of Liv Young—is a force of nature when it comes to self-love and transformation. As the host of The Liv Young Show podcast, Olivia shares her raw, inspiring journey of turning pain into power, balancing grit with grace through movement, plant medicine, and spiritual alignment. In this episode, she dives deep into the art of surrender, the surprising reasons we don't love ourselves, and how reconnecting with your inner voice can unlock everything you've ever needed. Her story is a vibrant reminder that healing isn't about fixing—it's about discovering the power that's already within you. Tune in for a conversation that's equal parts empowering, entertaining, and soul-stirring.

Gary Lipovetsky is a trailblazing entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host of the RISE Podcast, where he explores the journeys of extraordinary individuals and the lessons behind their success. With a career spanning successful ventures in e-commerce and digital media, Gary is also the co-founder of Valeria Inc., alongside his wife, Valeria Lipovetsky—a global influencer with a cumulative audience of over 6.5 million followers across all social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Together, they've built a powerful brand rooted in authenticity, connection, and purpose. In this episode, Gary shares insights on breaking free from generational cycles, the power of gratitude, and how he balances entrepreneurship with being a dedicated husband and father. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will leave you reflecting on your own journey toward success and fulfillment.

Sara Hayes is a running and mindfulness expert, coach, speaker, and the founder of Mindful Miles - a running and wellness community focused on teaching women how to heal, reclaim confidence, and have fun again through movement. Her unique approach to running has garnered attention from outlets such as Runners World, Well + Good, and Women's Health. Her practice is rooted in intuitive movement, personal development and mindfulness habits. Her latest program The Running Restart teaches you how to become a mindful runner starting with 15 minutes a day.

Alissa Alter is also known as The Amy Poehler of Vaginas for her unfiltered and unapologetic approach to destigmatizing the female body and experience. A former Broadway performer and certified classical Pilates, Alissa is the host of the podcast Myth of Motherhood and author of Unstuck: From Understudy To The Study of Your Undercarriage.

Karine is the co-founder of DayNew, a new technology platform designed to help people through trauma associated with grief and loss. After experiencing the sudden loss of her spouse, she realized that managing grief encompasses needs beyond what therapy alone can provide, both in her professional life and as a mother. Karine is a busy mother of three, and a prolific writer who shares her journey on Instagram.

Dara Levan is an author and storyteller who explores resilience, healing, and the power of connection in her work. Known for her podcast "Every Soul Has a Story," Dara uses her writing and podcast to foster genuine conversations on topics like breaking cycles, family dynamics and self discovery. In her debut novel, It Could Be Worse, she delves into themes of toxic parenting, healing, and redefining personal narratives. Dara lives in South Florida, where she draws inspiration from her family, community work, and a love of transformative storytelling.

Marine Sélénée, is a Family Constellations therapist and the author of Connected Fates, Separate Destinies. Marine specializes in helping people heal generational trauma and break free from inherited patterns, enabling them to reclaim their lives. With years of experience and a passion for exploring family dynamics, she guides individuals through transformative healing practices to create lasting peace and clarity. Join us as we delve into the profound impact of understanding our family stories and embracing true self-awareness.

Chris Hunter is a groundbreaking entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Four Loko, one of the most iconic alcoholic beverages in recent history. After navigating both success and challenges, Chris pivoted to co-found Koia, a company revolutionizing the plant-based beverage market. In his gripping memoir, Blackout Punch: An Entrepreneur's Journey from Chaos, Chris opens up about his quest for power, struggles with masculinity, and ultimate path to self-discovery. Beyond his business ventures, Chris is a dedicated father to three boys, balancing his professional successes with his commitment to family.

Michelle Grosser is a trial attorney, pastor, nervous system fitness expert, certified master life coach, and host of the top 20 parenting podcast, The Calm Mom. Through somatic and neuroscience-based modalities, she coaches women to reconnect with the wisdom of their body to discover what's beneath their triggers and emotions, so they can heal & find peace in the present. She deeply believes that the most profound thing we can offer our children is our own healing. 

Candace Van Dell is a globally recognized Spiritual Teacher & Healer. She has her Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology along with many different certifications in holistic health, reiki master, yoga and meditation.  With her ability to channel the inner child and understand hidden subconscious messages, She is often referred to by her clients as "the emotional guru".  Candace teaches over 12 online courses, coaches groups, one on one and has a monthly membership. Candace has over 250,000 followers across her social media platforms including her popular Youtube channel and her brand new podcast MISUNDERSTOOD - guiding highly sensitive people through the emotional dark age.  

Join us for a powerful episode with Dr. Sherrie Campbell, a licensed psychologist with over two decades of experience in transforming lives through counseling and psychotherapy. Dr. Sherrie will share her profound insights on childhood trauma, personality disorders, and cutting ties with toxic relationships. Renowned for her global coaching sessions and popular "Sherapy Thursdays" on Instagram, Dr. Sherrie is also an accomplished author of five books on emotional wealth and personal healing. Tune in to discover her empowering strategies for self-love and navigating life's challenges.

Gila Pfeffer is an essayist and humorist. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The New Yorker, McSweeney's, Today.com, and Oprah Daily. Gila's monthly “Feel It on the First” campaign uses humor to remind women to prioritize their breast health. She splits her time between New York City and London. NEARLY DEPARTED is her first book.   

Vasavi Kumar is a first-generation Indian immigrant raised on Long Island, NY. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 19, she made it her mission to understand her mind, starting by making room to hear herself think. Through her 'Say It Out Loud' podcast and book, keynote talks, and group programs, Vasavi has taught thousands of entrepreneurs, creatives, and artists how to work through any situation—by saying it out loud. She holds dual Master's degrees in Special Education from Hofstra University and Social Work from Columbia University. 

Sabrina Badeaux is the founder of Kanekshun, a wellness brand that offers innovative multi-sensory experiences combining breath-work, movement, sound healing, and meditation to enhance well-being in corporate environments. Sabrina is driven by her principal, "What impact will I make today?" and is dedicated to forging meaningful connections and delivering impactful experiences through her authentic approach to wellness. Tune in and get inspired on how to transform setback into life lessons.   

Jorge Perez is an author, agent, producer and keynote speaker. He has been in the personal development and entertainment industry for over 20 years. He Is the host of the Outliers TV podcast and has created shows for Bravo. He Is also an award winning documentary filmmaker about the homeless epidemic in Los Angeles. We discuss finding joy in acceptance, breaking the complaining cycle, and how silence can transform our lives

Cameron (Dr. Cam) Caswell, a.k.a. "The Teen Translator," gets it! As an Adolescent Psychologist & parent of a teen, she knows the struggles of navigating those tough years firsthand. As a private practitioner, TEDx speaker, podcast host, and author, she offers hope and practical strategies to help parents unlock their teen's confidence & resilience, build deeper, stronger connections with them, and foster a positive home environment. 

Rob Roseman is a man of many skills; he's a former  Las Vegas Poker Pro, memorable contestant of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Author of a 5-star rated book on Amazon, has interviewed over 100 dads on the Dad the Best I Can podcast. On top of all this, he founded WTF Divorce -- a platform with 138,000 followers built to help people learn, laugh, and feel less alone in divorce. Rob and Cari have a profound and humorous conversation about love and life after divorce.

Nikki Spoelstra is the host of “The Know with Nikki Spo” - a globally top ranked podcast which highlights the stories of individuals who are finding and celebrating their deepest sense of inner knowing in a space where it's not about knowing everything, but about coming to know ourselves. Nikki does not hold back when sharing her life story with Cari and this is an episode that's not to be missed.

Amanda Kuda is an alcohol-free lifestyle expert, holistic life coach, speaker and author living, working and playing in Austin, TX. As a coach, she teaches a modern approach to personal development, self-actualization and spiritual enlightenment through the lens of elective sobriety. Amanda's first book, Unbottled Potential was recently released. Amanda shares with Cari the possibility that living a sober life creates.

Leigh Esposito is an author, coach, tarotist, and former attorney with a B.A. in English from Penn and a J.D. from Columbia Law. Her coaching style combines the strategic acumen of a litigator with an artist's eye for creative expansion, all informed by her trademark positivity and penchant for identifying and maximizing her clients' strengths. Leigh also draws on the insight and intuition gleaned through her work with tarot, in which she became an expert while researching her debut novel, The Godmother. Leigh and Cari talk about her one of a kind life and following your intuition on a personal and professional level.

Tiffany Levy has developed a lifelong love for the transformative practice of Yoga and specializes in trauma, restorative & stress relief.  She's the co-founder of 420 Space Yoga, leading students and mindfulness retreats worldwide. She's been mentioned in Wall Street Journal, Thrillist, Miami New Times and more. Tiffany joins Cari for a bold conversation about healing trauma and the profound impact it can have on our lives and bodies. 

Catherine Duncan is an Integrative Spiritual Consultant, Inspirational Speaker, Blogger, and Minister. She is committed to whole-person healing with a focus on emotional and spiritual health.  As a childhood cancer survivor and having lived through a Near Death Experience she's guided by both professional and personal experiences. Her book, Everyday Awakening came out in 2023. Catherine shares with Cari her empowering tips for living an awakened life.

Alyce Chan is a multifaceted talent known as a speaker, writer, producer, and stand-up comedian with a global presence. Her comedy has graced renowned venues such as The Stand and the New York Comedy Club in New York. On top of all this, she is also the creative mind behind MOMCOMNYC, a parenting platform that has garnered attention from Vogue, which named it one of the top six funniest parenting Instagram accounts. In this heartfelt segment, Cari and Alyce delve into the profound role humor plays in the healing process, particularly when dealing with grief. 

Richelle Fredson is a book publishing coach and consultant who works with aspiring and published authors to create impactful book concepts and competitive book proposals. Many of Richelle's clients go on to receive impressive offers from their dream publishers. In this impactful episode, Richelle shared how to understand the power of your own story and leave self-doubt behind.