The Wellness Fanatic

Today on the podcast, local urban farmer Greg Miller and I talk about his passion project, Picked@Perfection, an urban farm in East Hill, Pensacola. Greg walks us through the day in the life of an IT Professional/Urban Farmer.  I was so inspired after my visit with Greg that I am encouraging all my friends and family to start a small pocket garden in their back (and/or front) yards. Picked@Perfection urban farm is a passion project of Greg Miller with the mission of reconnecting people to their food.  Some say Greg has a green thumb, but really it was just a matter of watching a lot of youtube videos and anyone can learn to grow fresh veggies using deep compost mulch system. The primary motivation and driver for Picked@Perfection is to eliminate the needless suffering from chronic disease born out of the current American food system. One of Greg's recurring talking points is "I hate to see people suffer, I love to see people thrive, and there is a path. Urban farms can be part of the path!"

Today's podcast is all about the healing benefits of sound therapy.  Join me and my delightful guest, Molly Hollingsworth, as she shares her wellness journey. From experimental rock shows to the TEDxTalk stage, violinist Molly Hollingsworth has given musical performances at many renowned and diverse venues across the US, Europe, and Asia which include the Concert Hall, Recital Hall and Opera House of the Kennedy Center for the Arts, the 9:30 Club, The Smithsonian American Art Museum, Strathmore Music Center, the National Museum for Women in The Arts, and many more. After a 15 year career in the performing arts, Molly scaled back her performance schedule to seek wellness, leading to the deepening of her own meditation practice. Since that time, she has made it her mission to use her musical gifts together with her skills in guiding meditation to help others explore their own relationship to sound as a catalyst for inner growth and transformation through her somatic sound meditation project, Slow Radical. In addition to her therapeutic soundbath meditation offerings, Molly serves as Orchestra Librarian for the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra.  She lives in Pensacola with her husband, two young daughters, and many household plants. Instagram: @slowradical

Juicy and possible controversial topic on today's podcast!  A recent event in pop culture had me thinking all last week about how how we need to support and honor the masculine.  Successful and fulfilling relationships are dependent on men and women showing up in their true nature to support and love one another.  We need both feminine and masculine presence in relationships, as well as in our society as a whole, in order to find true balance and harmony and teach future generations how to break free from the bonds that try to extinguish our authentic fire. Some references from today's talk: No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert A. Glover The Awakened Podcast by Chris Bale    

In today's episode, my good friend Jill Johnson and I talk about what led to her burnout, and how she is coming back to herself and the person she wants to be. We also chat about our recent experience at a wellness retreat that is tailored to adults who are tired of feeling like they are on a hamster wheel, and want to learn ways to slow down and enjoy their lives.  Jill is also excited to be starting her own business inside the wellness community.  On April 4, 2022 she is opening Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Mobile, Alabama.  She also has plans to expand into the Pensacola, Florida area in 2023.  You can visit the below website to learn more about the services she will offer, and also to book an appointment. http://handandstonemobile.com

Today on the podcast I admit something about myself that I have been denying for far too long. I am a professional procrastinator!  However, there is hope.  Today I share with you how to identify the what and the why behind your procrastination, as well as ways to help you stop the vicious cycle of procrastination.

  Why is it important to identify and take care of our own needs?  And, what are some ways we can do that?  Today we dig in to these questions in my conversation with Ellie McDonald.  Ellie is a 27 year old breast cancer survivor, and a champion for other women facing similar diagnoses.  We talk about her diagnosis and why she is able to have gratitude for how it has changed her life. Ellie is the founder of a community-driven nonprofit Tend to You inc in addition to being a member of the Sisters That Stray collective. Ellie grew up in Massachusetts and moved to Denver, Colorado in 2016. She moved back to her hometown in March 2019 to begin treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. This treatment lasted for 19 months. Ellie is passionate about heath care and the connections between mental, physical, and spiritual health. She loves learning about holistic approaches to healthcare and applying them to not only her own life but to Tend to You as well. To learn more about Tend, you can visit www.tendtoyou.org. Ellie is also on Instagram @tendtoyouinc and @elliegrace_

Laissez les bons temps rouler! In today's episode I talk about the holistic approach I took to heal my stress related digestive issues.  I also talk a little bit about how we should be able to enjoy the indulgences and treats we love by bringing a sense of balance to the way we eat and take care of ourselves.  Wellness really is about healing and taking care of our mind, body, and spirit.  If you can find the balance that works for you, I promise that you will have a greater sense of well being and purpose in your life.  

In today's short episode, I share with you an exercise in self discovery that has the potential to change the way you see yourself and the world around you.  So grab your pen and paper and write down two questions I want you to reflect on this week.  I hope you this podcast will lead you to do the work of better understanding and accepting yourself so that you can in turn do that for the others around you.

Amber Jernigan joins me on the podcast today to talk about our shared curiosity of Ayurveda and plant based diets.  A former yoga instructor turned realtor, Amber is also a self proclaimed wellness fanatic and soul sister.  I am so glad our paths crossed on this journey, and that we are able to share ideas and support each other as we figure out how to become the best versions of ourselves.  Listen to this fun and enlightening conversation between two seekers! You can find Amber on Instagram: @amberjerniganofficial @ambersellsthecoast @plantbasedbeachblonde

In today's episode I talk about embodiment and what I have learned from exploring this in my own life.  I talk about the different energies our bodies hold, and how we can tap into them all to fully understand and express ourselves.  I hope this isn't too woo woo for some of you, because I think we can unlock who we truly are made to be by accepting all the parts of who we are.  

This week on the podcast I talk with Crystalynn Godek about the challenges of motherhood, and how important it is for us to love and take care of ourselves so that we don't lose ourselves.  This is a good conversation for the men to listen to as well if they want to better understand and support the mothers in their lives. Crystalynn Godek is a wife, mom of two, and Performance and Mindset Coach with Heart Over Head Coaching. As a certified coach, she helps busy moms put themselves on and at the top of their to-do lists and renew self-confidence.    Crystalynn's services include individual and individual group coaching experiences. For more information on services or to download free resources, visit: www.heartoverheadcoaching.com   Instagram: www.heartoverheadcoaching.com/hohcoaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartoverheadcoaching Email: crystalynn@hohcoaching.com Crystalynn Godek, CPC Performance & Mindset Coach Heart Over Head Coaching Schedule Your Free Powerful Coaching Session here.

Today on the podcast I talk about the power our living spaces have on our subconscious minds.  The way we want to feel and be in the world starts with how we live, work, and play within our own homes.  Today is a short and sweet episode that I hope inspires you to take a look at your surroundings and curate more loving and joyous spaces to move around in.  

Today on the podcast, the lovely and genuine Sara Dean gets honest with us about her struggles and how she has transformed her life. We talk about conscious actions that can move you closer to the person YOU want to be and the life you want to live.  We also talk about the fact that embarking on a wellness journey doesn't have to be expensive.  Listen in to hear Sara's story on how she is doing "at least something" everyday to move her closer to the highest version of herself. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance abuse, co-dependency, low self-worth, and a myriad of other seemingly inescapable labels defined my identity, and to say that life was nearly intolerable is an understatement. Counseling and medication served as band-aids, treating symptoms to make it through each day, but I knew there had to be more to life than pushing through and that it would require healing the root of these symptoms to truly see change in my life. It was not until I stepped into my first Power Yoga class that I believe the life I had been seeking truly began; this was the place I first tuned into my body and breath and was able to quiet the constant chatter in my mind to use it in more productive ways. From there, I dove inward for two years, learning and applying new concepts in my life, essentially using myself as a science experiment to see if I could rewire my brain to move past survival and into something better. It has not been an easy road to travel, as it has been filled with many highs and lows as I examine and question the thoughts, beliefs, and patterns that I clung so tightly to, but I'd travel it many times to arrive here, right now, overjoyed to be alive to meet each new day. It is my deepest passion to use what I have learned to help others build a solid foundation within themselves to heal, grow, and experience all the joy that is available to us when we shed the heavy burdens and labels to step into alignment with who we truly are. I believe that many, if not all, of our perceived problems and personality “defects” can be mended through self-study and conscious living to bring the mind, body, and spirit into homeostasis. Despite our greatest efforts to not change because it's scary, this journey will surely bring a lot of change, but I am here as a living example of how possible it is and to support you along the way. Originally from Mobile, AL., I now consider myself a Pensacola local, living here since December 2013. After fighting a lifelong uphill battle against my mental and physical health, I stumbled into Power Yoga and have not looked back. After only a short time, I saw tremendous improvements in my overall health and had created a solid foundation to continue building on to grow and heal. I have spent the past two years in deep self-study, but have also taken a variety of classes at Pensacola State College and work with local practitioners in the health and wellness field to expand my knowledge in mental, physical, and spiritual health. Now armed with a 200-hour RYT certification, my hope is to share what I have learned and continue to learn along this journey to help others experience this deep peace that I have finally found within myself, whether on a yoga mat or off of it. You can find Sara on Instagram @saradean.yogabean, and Facebook @Sara Dean

In today's podcast I share how I am approaching the new year by keeping track of myself, instead of keeping score against others.  I do a little recap of some things I learned in 2021, and why I think this method of keeping track instead of keeping score can work for most any situation.  You can create the life you want. You really can! It won't be easy, but it is so worth it! Spoiler Alert: I share some of my thoughts about the new Netflix movie "Don't Look Up."  So, if you haven't seen the movie and plan to watch it, you might want to skip listening to this episode until you watch it. Happy New Year everyone!

For more than two decades, Whitney has been studying and practicing the arts of yoga and meditation. Diagnosed with scoliosis as a child, she discovered in her 20's that yoga could help alleviate her back pain and poor posture. Whitney is certified through Yoga Alliance as a RYT500, specialized in Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra and Meditation. She fell in love with the mindfulness of yoga and teaches from a deeply inspired heart and mind. In 2011, Whitney formally received the 5 Mindfulness Trainings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, receiving the Lineage Name Clear Water of the Heart. A lifelong student, in 2021 Whitney received transmission of the 14 Mindfulness Trainings and was ordained into the Order of Interbeing at Plum Village Monastery with the Dharma Name, True Spring Fruits. Whitney brings to her classes a sense of compassion and understanding for each student's individuality, as she believes yoga is for everyone and should be made accessible to all. Her classes focus on unifying the mind and body, while strengthening both. Whitney's mission is to maintain a safe and sacred environment for you to learn and grow in your physical and spiritual practice, whether you are new to yoga or an experienced practitioner. More information on Whitney's classes can be found at wldavidson.com Website: https://wldavidson.com/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wldavidsonyoga Email: wldavidsonyoga@gmail.com   Favorite App - Plum Village Monastery App (it has a great "start here" section to help get you started on learning about mindfulness): https://plumvillage.app/

Today's episode is all about being more intentional with how, when, and why you drink alcohol.  The phrase "Sober Curious" was coined by Ruby Warrington in her 2018 book.  Being sober curious is now a cultural movement of people who give up drinking for wellness reasons.  I am not only going to talk about what sober curious is, but also why you should consider it, and how you can go about getting started.  I would love to hear from you if this is something you would like to hear more about. This podcast is not intended for those that have a serious addiction to alcohol.  If you find yourself in that place, please seek professional guidance to safely withdraw from the use of alcohol. Books mentioned in today's podcast: Sober Curious by Ruby Warrington Eat Smarter by Shawn Stevenson An Idiots Guide to Ayurveda by Sahara Rose Please give me a rating on Apple Podcasts for this and any other episode that you have found helpful to you on your wellness journey.

Today's podcast is all about moving your body!  Nathan and Carly share with us how they got started in flow arts in the form of hoola hooping and ecstatic dancing.  I had the privilege of meeting both of these beautiful people! They taught me how to get out of my head and into my body through hoola hooping.  In this episode we talk about how flow movements can bring you into a flow state, where you are fully immersed in the energy of the moment.  This increased enjoyment and energy  can bring more focus, concentration, and enjoyment to other areas of your life. Carly is 29 and just moved to Pensacola Beach with her 5 year old son. You can catch her serving tables at Crabs on the Beach, long boarding down the street or hula hooping just about anywhere. She started hooping 6ish years ago when she was pregnant with her son as an outlet for her mind and body. What started as simple waist hooping in her backyard expanded into something she is extremely passionate about. She enjoys teaching lessons, hosting workshops and flow meet ups, spinning fire and performing. She hosts a free class at Shoreline Park at 2pm on available Sundays.  She also offers lessons and workshops. Carly's contact info: Experiences on Airbnd IG @Callmecarlyy FB @Carly Circles She will post flow meet ups on my social media as well as the Next Door App. Nathan is an ecstatic dancer with over a decade of experience attending dances on the East Coast, Midwest, South, and West Coast.  He loves to dance and host dances.  He encourages everyone to move their body!  Get out of your mind and into your body! Nathan's contact info: IG @siriusecstaticdancer For information and timings on local ecstatic dances: IG @ecstaticdancepensacola

It's that time of year when we are trying so hard to create magical memories for our families, and for ourselves.  Now more than ever, we need to focus on what brings balance to our lives so that we can create those pockets of calm in the midst of all the hustle and bustle.  Stress is inevitable, and to some degree we all will have added stress during the holidays.  Instead of obsessing about the fact that we are busy and stressed, let's create steps to move toward a more peaceful existence.  Today I am going to talk about a few things we can do to bring balance into our lives and provide us comfort. Peace and love to you all!

I am really excited to share with you all the conversation I had with Kim Sulger on what Ayurveda is, and how Kim has built an Ayurvedic practice that has transformed the way in which she moves through her days.  Ayurveda is a traditional medical system that aims to both prevent and heal illness by connecting you to the rhythms of nature.  Ayurveda teaches us that relief for someone with insomnia can look like choosing certain foods to eat (or not to eat) in the evenings, avoiding certain television programs, or grounding yourself with a short yoga practice.  Through self study, you can determine what is best for you in any given moment so that you can show up as the truest expression of yourself, while living in a state of optimal health. Kim has been involved in healthcare in one way or another for most of her career.  She is a former critical care registered nurse, but shifted her focus from bedside care to the corporate world where she currently holds the position of Vice President for a healthcare learning company.  She loves animals, sailing, being out in nature, and teaching others how to begin their Ayurvedic journey.  Once a month, you can find her teaching a free Ayurveda class at Ever'man Coop on Garden Street in Pensacola, FL.  Check out everman.org for the class schedule.  You can also find Kim on Facebook @FlowAyurveda.  You can message her there to learn more about individual coaching or group classes. For dosha quizzes: Chopra.com Banyanbotanicals.com - also have fantastic Ayurvedic products

I am so glad to be back for another season of The Wellness Fanatic!  In today's episode I share with you my personal survival tips to help you through everyday life, especially stressful seasons like the holiday season we are now in.  Grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax while I chat with you about some of the ways I take care of myself so that I can have the presence and energy to encourage and love those around me.  The most exciting part about today's episode is that I announce a giveaway!  Follow me @thewellnessfanatic on Instagram to enter and win what I am calling the Holiday Survival Giveaway!

I'm taking a break from the podcast for a little while to focus on some other priorities in my life.  If I am honest, I started this podcast to prove to myself that I could step out of my comfort zone during a very difficult period in my life.  But, I could have never dreamed the places inside me that I would discover while doing this.  I met so many wonderful new people, and learned so many things.  One of the most important things I have learned is how to recognize when you need to rest.  And, not only that but if I don't take care of myself, I won't have anything to give to anyone else. So, this is not goodbye.  I am going to be working on some exciting new topics to explore with you all in the coming months.  Take care friends! Peace and love to each and every one of you!

Today's episode focuses on running as a way to get outside and move your body.  It does not matter if you have never moved your body this way, or if you are an avid runner, this episode has something for you.  I share with you why yoga and pilates can strengthen your running game and help protect you against injuries.  Listen in to find out more about the many resources for running here in Pensacola, from businesses to social media groups. No matter where you live, baby, you were born to run! http://runningwild.com http://pensacolarunners.com http://gourdyspumpkinrun.com Facebook groups: Run Pensacola Pensacola Area Runners

Today's show is all about why you shouldn't play it safe if your heart is telling you that you are meant for something for more. We all get in our comfort zones, and the thought of leaving those can be terrifying.  But, listen in today for reasons why you should go for what you want in this life.  We sometimes cling to comfort so that we can avoid pain, but pain is inevitable.  We will experience pain in this life, but we can choose what we want to struggle for.  I say let's go for what our hearts desire!

I loved my conversation with Manda and Maleah Manning! Today we talk about relationships, not just the ones you have with others, but more importantly the one you have with yourself.  This episode mainly focuses on women, but men listen in if you want to learn how to better support the females in your life.  So many important nuggets of information in this episode! Manda and Meleah are the founders of Sisters That Stray ~  a collective of women rising up to remember their power, live on purpose, and reclaim their right to pleasure. Their teachings focus on empowering women to cultivate healthy relationships, radical self-love, and more pleasure. At the core of their work, they are guiding you towards YOUR inner source so that you can move forward living in your power, purpose, and pleasure. Manda and Meleah are Certified Trauma-Informed Relationship & Intimacy Coaches and Yoga, Breathwork and Embodiment Instructors. They hold retreats in Costa Rica and run a monthly membership as well as an intensive mentorship program.

Today's podcast is short and sweet! I share an exercise with you to help you work through those daily thoughts and emotions that are keeping you stuck in your life.  We are not our thoughts, and when we learn that we can change our thoughts, we take back the power in our lives.  We can then identify what we want, and bring those things into our life with more ease.  No matter what has been holding you back, if you can identify it, you can work to overcome it.  Let's get to work!

It is time to go back to school here in Pensacola, Florida. Today on the podcast I share with you some ideas about how you can work on reducing those stress levels during this time of year.  I discuss the importance of really getting to know and understand your priorities so you can build your schedules and routines around those. It is also easier to say no to some things if you truly know what is most important to you and your kids. I also discuss how stress plays an impact on our health, and why it is important to not let stress go unchecked in our bodies.  Now more than ever we need to be kind to our bodies to keep our immune system in its optimal state. I briefly discuss supplements, how they can help us, and whether or not children really need a multivitamin. Here's to all the moms, dads, and kids facing another back to school in the middle of a pandemic. We can do hard things! Especially when you surround yourself with a community of people that love and support you.  

I got the very special treat of sitting down with my daughter this weekend and discussing her journey with anxiety.  She shared her experience in hopes that it might help some of you that are experiencing anxiety, and perhaps haven't found a way to overcome the sometimes crippling effects it has on your life.  I also share a little bit about my experience with anxiety and how I have learned to accept it, and listen to what it is trying to teach me. I refer to Byron Katie in the podcast and how some of the exercises she recommends have led me to even more self exploration and healing related to my anxiety.  To learn more about Byron Katie you can visit the website below: https://thework.com

Today's episode is one of my favorite episodes because I now have a new found respect for bees and their keepers.  Bees are so important to agriculture around the globe, because we rely on them to pollinate tons of fruits and vegetables, even almonds!  And, they make honey!  Honey is not only a delicious and nutritious food, but it is also used for medicinal purposes.  Chris Ziglar, owner of East Hill Honey Co, and his daughter Savannah Lawrence taught me so much in this episode, and I am so happy to share it with you!  Oh, and I will take my honey with comb from now on.  Listen in and you might decide to as well. Chris Ziglar is the owner of East Hill Honey Co and is the head beekeeper for the company. He is originally from Cantonment, Florida and now resides in the area with his wife, Stacey and the 4 youngest of their 6 children. Chris' background has consisted of mission work, agriculture, construction, and international development. Beekeeping began as a hobby for Chris, and over the last several years has become a passionate endeavor. Savannah Lawrence is the daughter of Chris and Stacey Ziglar and began in the company as a beekeeper, learning from Chris. She is also a registered nurse and will graduate in December from UWF with her Master's degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has recently become a military spouse and is now living in Mississippi, where she now manages East Hill Honey's social media pages. Instagram and Facebook: @easthillhoneyco  

In this episode, I give you some information that can possibly help you live longer, as well as improve your quality of life.  The inspiration behind today's podcast is my impending 49th birthday!  Also, I have recently listened to several podcasts on longevity, and how important it is to own our choices related to the way we eat, the way we interact with others, and the way we move our bodies. I wanted to share a few things I have read and heard in hopes that it can spark that idea within you to create the change you need to become the best version of yourself. I talk about building your community, being active, polyphenols (berries, berries, and more berries), fasting, autophagy, and some of my favorite super foods.  I also talk a great deal about smoothies (more than I realized). I teach you how to build a satisfying smoothie that can replace your first meal of the day if you are on the go, or just like the convenience of a smoothie. The following are books/podcasts I used for inspiration to create this episode: Books: Glow 15 by Naomi Whittel Blue Zones by Dan Buettner Okinawa Diet by Dr. Bradley Wilcox Official Sirt Food Diet by Aidan Coggins and Glen Matten Eat Smarter by Shawn Stevenson Podcast: The Model Health Show with Shawn Stevenson The Art of Being Well with Dr. Will Cole The Doctor's Farmacy with Mark Hyman, MD The Dr. Axe Show with Dr. Josh Axe      

We have a great deal packed into today's episode!  Erin Kirk and I talk about life transitions, how travel and new experiences can enrich our lives, setting boundaries, prioritizing our time, and how those of us in midlife should really listen to those callings to become the best version of ourselves.  Listen in to this fun conversation with some life tips from a real pro! Erin is a trauma-informed, Professional Certified Life Coach (PCC) with more than 1,000 coaching hours. She helps clients optimize their lives and businesses: Leading them to identify what they really want, why they want it and what's in their way. Erin is an Energy Leadership Master Practitioner, a world-traveler, a former newspaper reporter and new author working on her first book entitled Death to Sparkleprincess: A Beginners Guide to Midlife. Erin is the founder of Girl Catch Fire LLC, based in Pensacola Florida which also hosts luxury and adventure retreats for women in the US and Europe. She and her husband Sam were cattle ranchers in Texas, until they sold the operation and bought a Hatteras sportfishing yacht in Pensacola, which they lived on downtown, for a year with their two retired cattle dogs. Erin is a big fan of Jesus, dinner tables and guacamole – especially all at the same time. She can be found at Girl Catch Fire on Facebook and Instagram. Web: Girlcatchfire.com

Today's conversation with Dr. Justine Roper is so powerful!  We discuss her approach to helping her patients heal from pelvic floor dysfunction, a sometimes painful and debilitating condition.  Dr. Jus is not just treating symptoms, she is helping people change their lives!  She is very passionate about her work and feels like this is her life's purpose.  We also talk about how she keeps herself physically and mentally strong so that she can continue this very important work. Dr. Justine Roper PT, DPT is a certified women's pelvic floor physical therapist & pelvic health & wellness coach. She has dedicated her life to offering innovative ways to heal her patients' bodies of pain and other dysfunction through alternative methods. From sexual dysfunction to pelvic pain, many of her clients are impacted by both physical ailments as well as mental health issues. In addition to being a clinician, she is also a speaker who dedicates her time to promoting education and enlightenment on mental health disorders and beginning a journey towards living a life of freedom after experiencing sexual trauma or abuse. As a wellness coach, she offers dynamic classes that include pelvic floor information in order to optimize her client's quality of daily functional living. She is an instructor at the University of West Florida. Proudly, she is the founder of InHer Physique Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy located in Pensacola, FL which is the only clinic that offers pelvic floor physical therapy services to all genders and ages, in the Florida Gulf Coast. http://www.inherphysique.com Instagram @doctorjus

Today on the podcast, I continue the conversation about following our passions with Kat Dellinger.  The two passions we discuss today are hiking and photography.  Kat lives, works, and (mostly) plays in Western North Carolina.   She is married with two kids under the age of 10.  She is a Nurse Anesthetist, and her favorite case is open heart surgery.  Kat solo thru-hiked the John Muir Trail in 2016. She grew up in Florida and Hawaii, got her undergraduate at Florida State University, and her masters degree at the University of North Carolina. Kat and I talk about her passions, and how she infuses the rest of her life with the positive energy she gets from following them.  We also talk about the value of female friendships, and the strength we can gain from sharing our passions with one another. If you want to see some beautiful photographs of the spectacular WNC skyline, as well as the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, follow Kat on Instagram @kitkat.dellinger.  

I am so excited to have one of my favorite people on the podcast today!  Neil "Thrill" Jackson is with us to talk about his passion for music and how it has helped him fulfill his purpose in life.  Neil and I talk about the power of music, and how the energy he gets from being in a band has helped him battle depression and anxiety over the years, especially this last year with the pandemic.  We talk about how this last year has affected him personally, as a husband, business owner, and father. Neil owns The Groove, a local bar and live music venue, in Brewton, Alabama.  He also is working on a project called Music for Wellness to help children learn about the healing power of music.  I plan to have Neil back on the show in the coming months to talk more about this venture. Follow Neil on Instagram to keep up with all his future projects, as well as to find out where you can catch some live shows by local musicians. Contact Info (Instagram): @_neiljack @thegroovemfs

Today on the podcast, I talk with Donald Russell about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), what it is, how he successfully manages it, and why he wrote a book about it. You can find Donald's book Obsessions, Rituals, and Wasted Time on Amazon.com.  Tune in today to hear some stories from his book, and to learn more about this mental disorder that affects about 2.2 million adults in the U.S. Donald is the owner of two tourists guides in Northwest Florida, has written and published one book, and designs and sells T-shirts making fun of our society's addiction to cellphones. He graduated from Auburn University in 1989 with a marketing degree, and attended the University of Florida School of Journalism in 1992 with a concentration on magazine journalism and radio broadcasting.  Donald has lived and worked in Australia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.  His life experiences, more than education, are the foundation of his knowledge. He has felt the desire to help others after finally understanding that his own mental disorder can be controlled.  Following a speech he gave to a church group about his disorder, he discovered that no one in the audience perceived him as crazy or unclean.  Since then, his passion has been to tell others of what living with OCD is like and where to look for help.  

I am thrilled to have Shannon Gardner back on the podcast today!  She joined us on the podcast six months ago to talk about intermittent fasting and how she was using it as a tool to reach her weight loss goals, and improve her physical and mental well being.  She catches us up on where she is on her wellness journey, how intermittent fasting is still a big part of that, and what her plans are for the future. Shannon, for those of you who don't know, is a busy mom of 3 and operations manager for Innerlight Surf Shop, with locations in Pensacola and Gulf Breeze, Florida. In this episode, we discuss the book Intuitive Fasting by Dr. Will Cole, and how you can use his four-week approach to fasting as a way to reset your metabolism and improve your health.  We also discuss some other key take aways from this book, and how we have both tweaked not only how we eat, but what we eat in order to meet our individual needs and goals.  If you have wanted to try fasting, but not sure how to get started, this episode is for you! https://www.innerlightsurf.com Books we reference in the podcast: Intuitive Fasting by Will Cole Atomic Habits by James Clear Levels of Energy by Frederick Dodson

I am so grateful to have Dr. Megan Stodard join me on the podcast today.  May is Mental Health Awareness month and Dr. Stodard and I talk about why it is just as important to keep a check on your mental health as it is on your physical health.  There has been a documented rise in depression and anxiety over the last year.  In our local community of Pensacola, we have dealt with a pandemic, and a major hurricane, two big life events that have caused us to feel out of control at times. Our hope is that this podcast will allow you to normalize the experience of asking for help if you need it.  You don't have to be in crisis mode to reach out to a therapist.  In fact, please don't wait until you find yourself in crisis to start taking care of your mental health.  And remember, one size does not fit all in the world of mental health.  What worked for your friend might not work for you, and that is why you might need to talk to someone that can help you identify those undercurrents that are driving your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Dr. Stoddard also shares some good news at the end of the podcast that I think you will want to hear!  Hint Hint: We are going to be ok! Dr. Megan Stodard is a licensed psychologist in Florida and the founder of Harbor Wellness.  She obtained her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and Human Systems from Florida State University and completed a Clinical Psychology internship at Arkansas State Hospital. ​Dr. Stodard works with a wide range of clients who present with concerns related to life transitions, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, attention difficulties, trauma, grief, and interpersonal conflicts.  In her practice, some individuals need short term support, others need long term treatment, and many fall somewhere in between.   ​Her graduate training at Florida State University focused on provision of psychological services across the lifespan in a wide range of settings (i.e., schools, hospitals, private practice, university health center, community clinic, emergency children's shelter).  Dr. Stodard completed an APA-accredited internship in Clinical Psychology at the Arkansas State Hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas where she treated adolescents and adults in inpatient, forensic, and community based facilities.  She completed her post doctoral training at Lake Psychological Services (LPS) in Columbia, South Carolina.  She then joined LPS as a staff psychologist where she worked in private practice until relocating to the Pensacola area in July 2014.  In August 2014, she joined The Anchor Clinic team where she provided psychological assessment and treatment for a wide range of clients from 2014-2018. Dr. Stodard's work alongside inspiring clinicians and clients at the Anchor Clinic increased her interest in a wellness approach to psychological services. ​Dr. Stodard founded Harbor Wellness to provide a unique environment and approach to help individuals build healthy, satisfying lives of meaning, value and purpose. ​Currently, her practice focuses on adolescent and adult services. Her therapeutic approach is primarily cognitive behavioral, although she integrates other modalities to individualize treatment.  https://www.harbor-wellness.com

Today on the podcast, Donna and I talk about yoga and why you should try it if you have not.  Or maybe try it again if you didn't have a good experience with your first attempts.  By adopting a regular yoga practice, you can reap the many benefits this type of exercise has to offer.  Our mind, body, and spirit are so linked together that everything we experience is stored within us.  Therefore, physical ailments can have emotional or psychological roots.  By practicing yoga, we are coming back to our body and creating that space for ourselves that can lead to healing. Donna Dickey is an inspiring teacher known for her calm and creative approach to making yoga accessible to all of her students. She earned her Yoga Instructor Certification in 2015 when she completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training through the Association for Yoga and Meditation Ashram. AYM is located in the foothills of the Himalayas near the Ganges River in Rishikesh, India, the yoga capital of the world. AYM is internationally accredited by Yoga Alliance. Donna is a registered yoga instructor (RYT-200) with Yoga Alliance. Donna's Contact Info: Donna@iamabode.com @yogaabode for FB and Instagram http://iamabode.com 850-529-0699

Molly Rockwell is on the podcast today!  Molly is not only a spreader of love and light, but she is also an indoor cycling instructor at Ride Society Pensacola.  She started teaching group fitness classes in 2016 and believes movement should be one thing: whatever makes you feel good! She strives to be an encouraging voice in the sometimes unsupportive world of fitness, and focuses on transforming the mind and soul first instead of the body. Listen to our conversation today and find out why "no one cares" can actually be a good thing sometimes. If you want to be inspired to move your body, then you won't want to miss this episode!

Today you get the pleasure of listening to my conversation with Missy Hooke, one of the most delightful human beings I have ever had the pleasure of speaking with.  And I am not just saying that because we share the same name! Listen in to learn more about her and how she uses her gifts to help others. Missy led me through my first energy healing session a couple of weeks ago and we talk about what that experience was like for me. If you want to discover another tool to have for your journey to becoming a better version of yourself, then you won't want to miss what we unpack in today's episode. Missy Hooke is a naturally gifted Intuitive Energy Healer and Medium who uses the ancient techniques of Reiki, crystals and her deep inner knowing to clear energy and balance chakras in order to reduce stress and promote overall wellbeing physically, emotionally and spiritually. She has always had a passion for helping others heal, which led her to get her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and ultimately into energy healing. This alternative field not only allows her to improve her own health but the wellbeing of others as well. Follow the link below to schedule a session with Missy. https://calendly.com/missyhooke/virtual-session-with-missy-hooke

Today the podcast is all about the Enneagram 9 energy I have been in lately, and how I am employing the habit stacking technique to try and keep myself from getting overwhelmed.  I share with you a simple example of habit stacking to illustrate how we can break down goals and add  associated activities and tasks one at a time to form a lasting routine of habits that will help us become a better version of ourselves.  Whether it is a fitness goal, or a goal to have more time to create, this technique can help you keep your priorities aligned so that you can employ the small steps necessary to achieve those desires. I hope you listen in today and get some ideas on how you can start habit stacking.  And, hey if you are an Enneagram 9, let me know if any of this hits home with you.  We can overthink it together! Love and peace to this community of seekers. I am honored to be on this journey with you.

Today on the podcast I have the pleasure of talking to Danielle Mullet, owner of the The Daily Squeeze, a local juice bar in Pensacola, FL.  Danielle and I talk about the benefits of cold pressed juicing, and why she is passionate about offering the local community a fun and easy way to get their needed vitamins and nutrients from a variety of fruits and vegetables.  Danielle also offers smoothies, and other menu items that complement her approach to wellness. Danielle shares with us the passion behind her wanting to open her own business, and what keeps her motivated each day. We discuss the core values that are the backbone of her business, and how she works hard to live by those values, not only for herself, but for her employees, and her customers as well. https://www.thedailysqueezepcola.com/  

Today on the podcast, Jack and I talk about how he combines his passion for nutrition and CrossFit to help others achieve their fitness goals. We also discuss basic nutrition for anyone regardless of the way they choose to move their bodies every day. Jack believes that food shouldn't be labeled "good" or "bad," but that you should eat in a way that supports your lifestyle and the personal goals you have set for yourself.  Jack is very passionate about his wellness journey and how he shows up to help others on the journey to becoming their best selves. Jack is a native of Starkville, Mississippi.  His athletic career began early at the encouragement of his parents.  He started CrossFit in 2015 as a way to relieve stress and stay active while studying at Mississippi State University, where he completed a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics.  While his own personal philosophy on nutrition has changed since beginning CrossFit, it was CrossFit that helped him realize his passion for the field of Nutrition/Dietetics.  Jack relocated to Tallahassee to continue his education at Florida State University where he is pursuing a Master's Degree in Sports Nutrition.  In particular, he is passionate about how nutrition can be used in a supportive role with exercise to accomplish performance/body composition goals.

We are talking Cannabis this week on the podcast.  Listen in to my conversation with Mo Root from Empathic Practice to learn how she coaches her clients through the various logistics associated with the use of medical marijuana. Mo is very passionate about helping others find and follow their own unique path to wellness.  Listen in to learn more! Mo is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Licensed Facial Therapist, Certified Yoga Instructor, and Cannabis Coach at Empathic Practice.   http://empathicpractice.us mo@empathicpractice.us  

Today on the podcast, I talk with Travis Perkins, owner of Red Hills CrossFit in Tallahassee, Florida.  We talk about family, how Travis was first drawn to CrossFit, and what fuels his passion for helping others on their wellness journey.  Listen in for some good tips on how to live a happy and balanced lifestyle. Travis has earned the following: CF-L2, CrossFit Coaches Development Course, CrossFit Competitor's Course, US Army Fitness Instructor, US Army Combat Lifesaver, Camargo Olympic Lifting Course, Pendlay Olympic Weightlifting Level 1 & Level 2 Travis is a former runner and recreational triathlete, but has been doing CrossFit since 2008, and received his CrossFit Level 1 Trainer Certificate in 2012. Since then, he has earned numerous other CrossFit certifications as well as many outside the realm of CrossFit. Travis's passion for teaching is evident in his “other career” as well, where he is a US Army Instructor Pilot in the UH-60 Black Hawk.

Today Michael and I talk about what led him to be a chiropractor, how he met his wife, and how they landed in Morristown, Tennessee. Michael is passionate about what he does for his patients, and believes it is a true calling from God.  We discuss what he considers to be the 5 pillars of optimal health: exercise, nutrition, rest, positive mental attitude, and optimal spinal alignment. Listen in today if you want a truly inspiring message of hope from one of the most upbeat, and positive people I have had the pleasure of speaking with. 20 years ago Michael graduated from Life University in Atlanta and met his beautiful wife Marjorie. Shortly after, they were married. God sent them to Morristown to open HESKETT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC. They immediately fell in love with East Tennessee and now call it home. The people there have become family to them, and they consider themselves truly blessed to serve the people of the Lakeway area! Their office has a healing atmosphere where everyone is treated like family. They were honored with the Chamber of Commerce 2014 small business of the year and received the Lakeway people's choice best Chiropractor for 4 years. http://www.heskettchiropractic.com  

Today on The Wellness Fanatic, Felipe Munoz and I talk about how love led him to Pensacola and how love has kept him here for going on 10 years. We discuss the importance of cultivating empathy toward others, and more importantly ourselves.  Felipe teaches us how to be more mindful and present in our daily lives, and even guides us through a quick few minute meditation.  Join us if you want to learn about some micro adjustments you can make that can lead to a more peaceful, and joy filled life.  Daily stressors will always be there, but you decide how you react to them. Felipe Munoz is a Transformational Mindset Coach and Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher at Empathic Practice in Pensacola, Florida.  He is an internationally Certified Meditation Teacher and Life Coach.  Felipe has been working for more than a decade training and coaching creatives and clients to find their purpose and align their actions and goals. Successfully working with Mindfulness Meditation, Art, and Healing, Felipe brings his expertise to Empathic Practice so you can receive holistic support in a warm, personal, and compassionate way. http://munoz.work my website http://empathicpractice.us Our practice website https://destresspodcast.podbean.com/ My podcast on stress management https://youtube.com/c/EmpathicPractice YouTube with meditations and talks on spirituality and stress

Today Florence and I talk about how a life coach can help you if you have circumstances, or issues that are holding you back from realizing the success in life that you deserve.  If you don't know how to get started on where you want to go, or you are already on your path and have gotten stuck, Florence can help you break those barriers down and set yourself up to win at life! Florence Doisneau is a certified life coach, and the owner of Realize Unlimited, LLC. She assists clients in successfully defining and achieving their goals by supplying them with the tools and techniques they need to overcome the obstacles in their daily lives. Florence received her Life Coaching certification in 2014 from Coach U, and graduated from their Advanced Training Program in 2016. She is also a certified practitioner of Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) through the Tad James Company, a certified Yoga teacher, and she has her Masters Degree in Management and Bodyworks from Ecole Peyrefitte. She found her way to the vocation of Life Coaching through her own long and challenging journey during which she fought depression, anxiety, and social awkwardness in her own life. The tools she acquired along the way provided her with a much clearer perspective and a stronger resolve to create the fulfilling and joyous life she has always desired. This process inspired her to dedicate herself to helping other people overcome similar struggles. Florence originally considered taking up the practice of psychology, but after some study found coaching to be the field which would better serve her clients. Coaching, she explains, offers tools and opportunities to enhance communication, and create more authentic connections with people. She agrees with the philosophy that psychology and Twelve-Step programs have their usefulness in understanding the prison of the mind, but Life Coaching provides the key which unlocks that prison cell so that her clients can truly live a free and successful life. “Coaching,” she explains “is about understanding YOU. It is a process of building your future. Through Life Coaching you get to design and REALIZE the life you want.” Florence originally hails from Bordeaux, France. After living and interning in various other countries including Japan, England, and Spain, in 2013 she made the United States her permanent home. She currently serves her community through a local health and wellness center wherein she coaches clients on improving their lives through modifications in lifestyle, as well as by coaching through her own organization, Realize Unlimited. Book References Sydney Banks: sybanks.com to stream lectures and find more book references. Second Chance In Quest of the Pearl  George Pransky The Relationship Handbook: A Simple Guide to Satisfying Relationships Michael Neill The Inside Out Revolution Contact Info Website: https://realizeunlimited.com/ Email: realizewithflo@gmail.com Phone: +1 (954) 826 9172

Today Andrea and I talk about reasons why you might want to consider professional counseling.  One reason to consider it is if you need help to let go of past trauma or wounds.  This process can be really tough for some people, so it helps to have a safe space in order to articulate your feelings and past experiences.  When we learn to articulate our feelings and understand them, we can formulate new thoughts around those feelings and let go of those limiting beliefs that weigh us down.  Listen today as Andrea explains to us the process that is involved when you choose counseling.  I learned so much from this episode, and a I hope you do too! Bayou Wellness is a counseling group that God graciously led me to establish on June 1, 2015.  My primary aim for this practice is to be a vessel for the work that the Holy Spirit wants to do in the people he sends my way.  I am a Christian and am passionate about biblical counseling and discipleship.  However, I see many clients who do not ascribe to any faith at all.  I have worked in the mental health field since 2009, both in private and agency settings, and I've worked as a counselor since 2010.  My education includes a bachelor's degree in Family and Child Sciences from Florida State University and a master's in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University.  I completed my post-master's internship in 2013, earning state licensure.  From my experience working in substance abuse and addiction, I became credentialed as a Certified Addictions Professional.  I started my career honing skills in the facilitation of mainstream psychotherapy, where evidence-based practices, like cognitive-behavioral therapy, are standard.  Like many therapists, I use various components of a number of treatment modalities when necessary.  In 2016, I began implementing facets of the Gottman Method approach to couples counseling after completing the first tier of Gottman training.  While the present day mental health field has a vastly growing body of research and a number of helpful approaches, I believe that these methods of thought and behavior modification by themselves effect only superficial and short-term relief.  Apart from the work of the Holy Spirit and the intentions and will of God, traditional psychotherapy methods fall short of true soul healing, which is only and always the supernatural work of God.  It is essential to learn behavior modification and practical ways to cope with life's problems through the lens of God's design with the guidance of the Holy Spirit who is the greatest counselor of all. http://www.bayouwellness.life

This week Pastor Pam Avery and I conclude our 3 part series on the Enneagram by discussing the Gut Triad (numbers 8,9, and 1).  The gut triad is also known as the anger triad.  Eight externalizes it, Nine forgets it, and One internalizes it.  These people respond to life by using their "gut instincts" to guide them.  They tend to express themselves openly and honestly.  Please join us today if you think you might be an 8, 9, 0r 1. Pastor Pam Avery is an Associate Pastor at Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church.  She is also a certified Spiritual Director. She has been studying the Enneagram and sharing it with others for over 10 years now.  She shares her knowledge with business groups, church staffs, and even family groups. You can find her on Facebook @PamelaAvery or on Instagram at @pastorpamavery. For more podcasts with Pam Avery, listen to The Wellness Fanatic, Episode 11 from Season 1, and Episodes 15 and 16 from Season 2.  

This week Pastor Pam Avery and I discuss the Enneagram Head Triad (numbers 5, 6, 7).  The Investigator (5), the Loyalist (6), and the Enthusiast (7).  These numbers are driven by fear. Five externalizes it, Six internalizes it, and Seven forgets it. They take in and relate to the world through their mind. Please join us today to learn more about these interesting people and how you can understand them better. If you identify with these numbers, please join so you can learn how you can soften your own path. Pastor Pam Avery is an Associate Pastor at Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church.  She is also a certified Spiritual Director.  She has been studying the Enneagram and sharing it with others for over 10 years now.  She shares her knowledge with business groups, church staffs, and even family groups.  You can find her on Facebook @PamelaAvery or on Instagram at @pastorpamavery. For more podcasts with Pam Avery, listen to The Wellness Fanatic, Episode 11 from Season 1.  

I get the pleasure of welcoming Pam Avery back to the show.  Today we talk about the Enneagram numbers 2, 3, and 4, also known as the heart triad.  Pam talks about the healthy, and unhealthy traits of each number and some practical suggestions to keep you in, or bring you back to your healthy place when you start seeing the warning signs of too much stress, or self abandonment.  I have learned so much about myself since talking with Pam Avery, and my wish is that you take something away today that can help you soften your path. Books we reference: The Wisdom of the Enneagram by Don Richard Riso and Russ Hudson The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile