Free Thinking with Montel

On this episode of Free Thinking with Montel, Montel sits down with endurance runners Colin Goodman and Matthew Knaggs—two men living with Multiple Sclerosis who refuse to let diagnosis define their future. After being diagnosed with MS, both Colin and Matt chose movement over fear. Their latest challenge is extraordinary: a 350-mile run across Ireland from Mizen Head to Malin Head, raising funds and awareness for MS while sparking honest conversations about resilience, identity, and what it means to live fully with chronic illness. This episode isn’t about elite athleticism—it’s about mindset. Colin and Matt speak candidly about the realities of MS: fatigue, uncertainty, mental battles, and the daily work of adapting to a body that doesn’t always cooperate. They also share how humor, friendship, and community can transform struggle into purpose. It’s a conversation about redefining limits, finding strength in vulnerability, and proving that life after diagnosis can still be bold, ambitious, and deeply meaningful. Whether you live with MS, care for someone who does, or simply need a reminder of human resilience, this episode will stay with you long after the finish line. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For many veterans and first responders, the hardest battles don’t end when the uniform comes off. Trauma, PTSD, and moral injury can follow them home—quietly shaping relationships, identity, and everyday life. On this episode of Free Thinking with Montel, Montel sits down with Lew and Nicole Duckwall, co-founders of Patriot Anglers, to talk about what healing actually looks like after service. Lew is a military veteran who struggled with severe PTSD after leaving the military. When traditional paths didn’t bring relief, he found an unexpected lifeline in fly fishing. What started as time alone in nature became a deeply therapeutic practice—one that helped him regulate his mind, reconnect with purpose, and rebuild his life. That personal breakthrough became the foundation for Patriot Anglers, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans and first responders cope with trauma through guided fly fishing experiences. Nicole brings the essential perspective of a military spouse and caregiver. She shares what it means to love someone living with PTSD, the emotional weight carried by families, and the resilience required to heal together. Their story is not just about recovery—it’s about partnership, patience, and turning pain into service for others. This conversation explores the lived reality of PTSD, the power of non-traditional healing pathways, and the importance of community in recovery. It’s an honest, grounded look at trauma, resilience, and the many ways people can find their way back to themselves. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it take to break a cycle you were born into?This week on Free Thinking with Montel, I sit down with Roy Hughes — author, veteran, and foster care survivor — to talk about resilience, responsibility, and redefining what family really means.Roy’s new memoir, Empty Hands: How One Foster Child Sacrificed Everything He Knew for Life, Liberty, and Happiness, is a raw and unfiltered look at growing up inside the foster system, surviving abuse, and fighting for a future he was never promised. But this isn’t just a story about hardship — it’s a story about choice.After aging out of care, Roy enlisted in the military, where discipline and service helped him rebuild his identity. Then he made a decision that would change his life forever: he adopted his younger sibling to keep his family from being torn apart. That act of love forced him to grow up overnight — and ultimately helped him heal.This conversation explores trauma, forgiveness, masculinity, mental health, and the power of stepping up when no one else will. Roy’s story is tough, honest, and deeply human — the kind of perspective that reminds us how much strength can come from the most unlikely places.If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to rewrite your story… this episode is proof that it is. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Free Thinking with Montel, Montel sits down with Walter Green — visionary leader, bestselling author, and founder of the global Say It Now movement — to explore one of the simplest yet most powerful forces in human life: gratitude.Walter has built the world’s largest living-tribute initiative around a single idea: don’t wait to say thank you. Through National Say It Now Day (December 17th), his bestselling book This Is The Moment!, a viral documentary with over half a million views in weeks, and his upcoming fable The Gratitude Express, Walter is inspiring people across classrooms, workplaces, and families to express appreciation while there’s still time.In this heartfelt conversation, Montel and Walter unpack:• Why living tributes matter more than posthumous praise• How expressed gratitude reduces anxiety, regret, and emotional isolation• The ripple effect gratitude creates in schools and communities• Stories from the Say It Now movement that have transformed lives• Practical ways listeners can overcome awkwardness and say thank you today• The connection between gratitude, legacy, and emotional well-beingThis episode is more than a conversation — it’s a call to action. An invitation to reconnect, to honor the people who shaped you, and to strengthen the relationships that define your life.If you’ve ever thought about someone who changed your path… this episode is your reminder: say it now.🎙 Join Montel for a moving discussion about appreciation, courage, and the power of speaking gratitude out loud — while we still can. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful and deeply human episode of Free Thinking with Montel, Montel Williams sits down with writer, cultural advocate, and founder of the Baldhead Empress platform, Cheryl McCourtie, to unpack the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Melissa and what recovery really looks like for Jamaica.On October 28, 2025, the strongest hurricane in Jamaica’s recorded history tore through the island—claiming lives, displacing more than 12,000 people, crippling agriculture, and wiping out an estimated 41% of the nation’s GDP. But beyond the headlines and statistics lies a deeper story: one of community resilience, cultural strength, and the urgent need for healing—both physical and psychological.Cheryl brings a personal and unfiltered perspective as she reflects on watching her homeland endure unimaginable loss while confronting cascading crises in public health, food security, tourism, and mental well-being. Drawing from her work as the Baldhead Empress, she shares how affirmation, storytelling, and community connection become lifelines in moments of collective trauma.Together, Montel and Cheryl explore:The real human cost behind disaster numbersHow culture, art, and storytelling help communities healThe critical role of the Jamaican diaspora and global alliesWhy mental health must be central to disaster recoveryWhat Jamaica’s future can look like with sustained support and solidarityThis is not just a conversation about a hurricane—it’s a conversation about dignity, leadership, resilience, and how we show up for one another when it matters most.🎧 Listen in, share widely, and join us in supporting Jamaica’s path forward. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Montel Williams for an inspiring episode of Free Thinking as we dive into one of the most remarkable environmental success stories of our time. Our guest, Amanda Leland, Executive Director of the Environmental Defense Fund and co-author of the groundbreaking book Sea Change: Unlikely Allies and a Success Story of Oceanic Proportions, takes us on a journey through the miraculous recovery of the Gulf’s red snapper population.Once on the brink of collapse, the Gulf’s red snapper fishery has rebounded thanks to innovative conservation strategies and the power of unlikely partnerships between fishermen, scientists, and policymakers. Amanda shares the deeply human stories behind this transformation, including that of Texas fisherman Buddy Guindon, who went from resisting change to championing it after witnessing the benefits firsthand.This episode explores how aligning economic incentives with conservation goals can create lasting change—not just for our oceans, but for other global challenges like climate change and deforestation. Amanda’s passion for the sea, combined with her expertise and optimism, will leave you inspired to rethink what’s possible when we work together to protect our planet.Don’t miss this hopeful and thought-provoking conversation about resilience, collaboration, and the future of our oceans. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we sit down with Ashley Schneider, the powerhouse behind MS Run the US, Inc., and author of the new memoir The Long Run Home. Ashley’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and turning personal pain into a movement that has raised over $4 million for multiple sclerosis awareness, aid, and research.Ashley shares her deeply personal connection to MS through her mother, Jill, whose battle with the disease inspired Ashley’s extraordinary 2010 solo run across America—3,288 miles from California to New York. She opens up about the physical and emotional challenges of that journey, the moments of humanity and kindness that kept her going, and how Montel’s early support gave her mission the visibility it needed to grow.We also explore how Ashley transformed her initial disappointment in fundraising into the creation of America’s Longest Relay Run, a coast-to-coast event that has united runners and supporters for over 13 years. Ashley’s story is a testament to the power of daring to begin, leading with vulnerability, and building a community that uplifts those living with MS.Tune in to hear Ashley’s insights on navigating grief, finding purpose, and taking the first step toward big, scary goals. Plus, she shares practical advice for those newly diagnosed with MS and their families, emphasizing the importance of diet, lifestyle, and community in managing the disease.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to turn their challenges into action and their dreams into reality. Don’t miss it! You can purchase The Long Run Home by Ashley Schneider at major book retailers, including:AmazonBarnes & NobleBooks-A-MillionIndieBound (to support local bookstores)Target (online or in select stores)Additionally, you can check Ashley’s website ashleymschneider.com for more details or links to purchase. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if getting older didn’t mean getting old? On today’s episode of Free Thinking, Montel dives into the revolutionary concept of SuperAging with special guest David Cravit, co-author of The SuperAging Workbook. (Larry Wolf couldn’t join us this time, but his insights are still front and center!)David shares the groundbreaking strategies behind the Seven A’s of SuperAging—a powerful framework to help you live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. From cultivating a positive attitude to staying active, building meaningful relationships, and avoiding ageism, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you thrive at any age.Discover how The SuperAging Workbook takes these ideas even further with interactive exercises and tools to help you take control of your health, finances, and future. Whether you’re in your 50s, 80s, or beyond, this episode will inspire you to embrace the possibilities of aging with purpose and vitality. 💡 Key Topics Discussed:The Seven A’s of SuperAging and how they can transform your lifeWhy centenarians are the fastest-growing age group in the U.S.Practical tips for staying active, connected, and engagedHow to combat ageism and redefine what it means to grow olderTune in to hear how you can make your later years your best years yet. Remember, getting older doesn’t mean getting old—it’s an opportunity to thrive!📚 Don’t forget to check out The SuperAging Workbook and visit the SuperAging News Network for more insights.🎧 Listen now and keep free thinking! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this deeply moving episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we welcome back Dr. David Weill, renowned pulmonologist, author, and storyteller. You may remember him from his previous appearance, where he shared insights from his memoir Exhale: Hope, Healing, and A Life in Transplant. Now, he returns to discuss his latest book, Tell Me I Belong: A Journey Across Faiths and Generations, releasing December 9th.Dr. Weill takes us on a profound journey of self-discovery, exploring his family’s escape from Nazi Germany, his upbringing in a home shaped by two contrasting faiths, and his personal quest to uncover his roots. From converting to Catholicism during a time of crisis to reconnecting with his Jewish heritage, David’s story is a testament to resilience, identity, and the power of understanding where we come from.Join Montel and Dr. Weill as they dive into the complexities of faith, family, and belonging, and uncover the lessons we can all learn from embracing our stories. This is an episode you won’t want to miss.Tune in, subscribe, and share this powerful conversation with someone who needs to hear it. And don’t forget to grab your copy of Tell Me I Belong—a book that will resonate long after the final page. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Free Thinking with Montel, Montel Williams sits down with two extraordinary guests, Debra Meyerson and Steve Zuckerman, to explore the emotional and physical journey of stroke recovery. Debra, a former Stanford professor, and Steve, her husband and care-partner, share their deeply personal story of resilience, identity rebuilding, and advocacy following Debra’s life-altering stroke in 2010.The couple discusses their nonprofit, Stroke Onward, and the second edition of their book, Identity Theft, which offers hope and actionable advice for stroke survivors and their families. From navigating the emotional challenges of recovery to advocating for systemic change in healthcare, Debra and Steve provide invaluable insights for anyone facing life-changing injuries or illnesses.This episode is a testament to the power of partnership, perseverance, and purpose. Whether you’re a survivor, a care-partner, or someone looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and hopeful.Resource Links:Stroke Onward website: https://strokeonward.org/Identity Theft: Rediscovering Ourselves After Stroke: https://strokeonward.org/identity-theft-book/Stroke Onward Community Circle (SOCC): https://circle.strokeonward.org/c/welcomeStroke Onward Gatherings: https://strokeonward.org/gathering/WCNY Documentary: https://www.pbs.org/video/stroke-across-america-trauma-adaptation-purpose-oukojg/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we dive into one of the most pressing and complex issues of our time: the intersection of faith, politics, and democracy in America. Montel sits down with Dr. Matthew Boedy, a professor of rhetoric, author, and advocate, to discuss his groundbreaking new book, The Seven Mountains Mandate: Exposing the Dangerous Plan to Christianize America and Destroy Democracy. Dr. Boedy unpacks the origins and evolution of the Seven Mountains Mandate, a decades-long movement aiming to seize control of key societal pillars—education, government, religion, family, business, media, and entertainment—to establish a Christian theocracy. He connects this movement to the rise of Christian nationalism, its influence on Donald Trump’s presidency, and its alarming implications for democracy under Trump’s second administration. From the role of organizations to the targeting of schools and universities, Dr. Boedy sheds light on how this movement is reshaping America—and what we can do to resist it. Whether you’re a person of faith or simply a concerned citizen, this episode offers critical insights into the fight to preserve democracy and counter the rise of extremism. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges perspectives, sparks dialogue, and empowers action. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we dive into the art of leadership—not just in the boardroom, but in your everyday life. Montel sits down with Adam Mendler, a nationally recognized authority on leadership, entrepreneur, and host of the top-rated podcast Thirty Minute Mentors. Adam has interviewed over 500 of America’s most successful leaders, from CEOs to athletes, and brings a wealth of insights on how leadership principles can transform not just businesses, but personal lives.Together, they explore how everyone can become the "CEO of their own life," practical strategies for overcoming setbacks, the power of communication in relationships, and the role of self-awareness in personal growth. Whether you're leading a team or simply striving to lead yourself to a better future, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.Tune in to discover how to step into your role as the leader of your own life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we’re diving into a story of resilience, redemption, and reinvention. Montel sits down with John Beyer, author of the upcoming memoir LIVE A LITTLE BETTER: One Man’s Journey of Survival, Sobriety, and Success. John’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary—rising from a childhood marked by addiction and neglect to becoming a successful entrepreneur, musician, and advocate for autism awareness.John opens up about his chaotic upbringing, his struggles with addiction, and the rock-bottom moment that led him to seek sobriety in 1986. He shares how he rebuilt his life, founded the thriving moving-and-storage business Men on the Move, and found purpose in advocating for autism awareness after his son Gregory’s diagnosis.Through personal tragedy, health crises, and the daily challenges of parenting and recovery, John’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and transformation. Tune in as Montel and John discuss the lessons learned from life’s toughest moments, the importance of giving back, and how we can all live a little better.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that will leave you motivated to rewrite your own story. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we’re diving into a conversation that’s not just timely—it’s transformative. Montel sits down with Sam Daley-Harris, a trailblazing advocate for citizen engagement and the author of the newly revised Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen’s Guide to Transformational Advocacy.Sam has spent over four decades empowering everyday people to reclaim their power and make a real difference on issues like poverty, climate change, and social justice. From founding the anti-poverty advocacy group RESULTS to co-founding the Microcredit Summit Campaign, Sam’s work has inspired countless individuals to move beyond frustration and into action.In this episode, Sam breaks down the concept of transformational advocacy—a way to not only change the world but also transform yourself in the process. He shares inspiring stories of people who went from feeling hopeless to becoming empowered advocates, and he offers practical advice for anyone ready to take the leap into meaningful action.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the state of the world or wondered if your voice can truly make a difference, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how deep engagement can dissolve discouragement, bring joy, and help heal our democracy.Key Topics:What is transformational advocacy, and how does it work?Real-life stories of advocates who turned despair into action.Practical tips for meeting with elected officials—even those who disagree with you.Why advocacy isn’t just about changing issues—it’s about changing you.How to find your “why” and step into your power as a citizen.Feeling inspired? Don’t miss the chance to grab Sam’s book, Reclaiming Our Democracy, and start your journey toward transformational advocacy today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this thought-provoking episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we’re diving headfirst into the future of healthcare with the brilliant Dr. Marschall Runge. As a distinguished physician-scientist, Dean of the University of Michigan Medical School, and CEO of Michigan Medicine, Dr. Runge has spent decades at the forefront of academic medicine and healthcare innovation. Now, he’s here to share insights from his groundbreaking book, The Great Healthcare Disruption. Join Montel and Dr. Runge as they explore the seismic shifts reshaping American healthcare—from the rise of retail medicine and AI to revolutionary therapies and new care delivery models. They’ll discuss how these disruptions can address the system’s biggest challenges—high costs, limited access, and uneven quality—while ensuring that innovation benefits everyone, not just a privileged few. From reimagining primary care and empowering patients to tackling disparities and preventing burnout among healthcare professionals, this episode is packed with actionable insights and bold ideas. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, policymaker, or simply someone who’s ever been frustrated by the system, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed. Tune in to hear why Dr. Runge believes that disruption isn’t just inevitable—it’s the cure we’ve been waiting for. Don’t miss this masterclass in the future of healthcare! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this riveting episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we sit down with Otho Eskin—veteran, diplomat, and acclaimed thriller author—to explore the fascinating intersections of his life and work. From his distinguished career in the U.S. Army and Foreign Service to his transition into writing politically charged thrillers, Otho brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. We’ll dive into his latest novel, Black Sun Rising, a gripping and timely thriller that tackles themes of extremism, political corruption, and the fragility of democracy. Otho shares how his real-life experiences—negotiating international agreements, navigating global crises, and witnessing the highs and lows of diplomacy—inform his storytelling. But this conversation goes beyond fiction. Otho reflects on the current state of U.S. diplomacy, the erosion of trust on the global stage, and the dangers of sidelining the Foreign Service. He warns of the real-world consequences for everyday Americans, from diminished safety abroad to the broader implications for democracy and human rights. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that blends history, politics, and the power of storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, a student of global affairs, or simply someone who cares about the future of democracy, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in, stay informed, and keep free-thinking. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this eye-opening episode of Free Thinking with Montel, we sit down with Lisa Pratta, a former top pharmaceutical sales rep turned whistleblower, to discuss her explosive new book, False Claims: One Insider's Impossible Battle Against Big Pharma Corruption. Lisa’s story is one of courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to exposing the truth. For over three decades, Lisa thrived in the pharmaceutical industry, breaking barriers as a woman in a male-dominated field. But behind the glossy corporate facade, she uncovered a world of fraud, sexual harassment, and greed. Her journey took a dramatic turn when she discovered illegal practices including Medicare fraud and the unethical marketing of a drug meant to help MS patients. Torn between her morals and the need to provide for her special-needs son, Lisa made the life-altering decision to go undercover as a whistleblower for nearly a decade. Montel and Lisa dive deep into the systemic corruption of Big Pharma, the personal toll of whistleblowing, and the devastating impact of profit-driven decisions on patients. With Montel’s personal connection to MS, this conversation is both powerful and deeply personal, shedding light on the urgent need for accountability in the healthcare system. Tune in to hear Lisa’s incredible story of bravery, the challenges she faced, and her fight to make a difference for patients everywhere. False Claims is more than a book—it’s a call to action for a better, more ethical healthcare system. Don’t miss this compelling episode. And be sure to grab a copy of Lisa’s book, False Claims, available June 3rd through William Morrow. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.