PiZetta Media: Podcast with a Cause

In this powerful interview, Yolanda Wallace, Executive Director of Mother's War on Violence, shares her journey of transforming personal tragedy into meaningful advocacy. Following the heartbreaking loss of her son to gun violence in 2006, Yolanda founded the organization to address violence prevention and provide critical support for families affected by unsolved murders. She discusses the creation of impactful initiatives like advocacy in the courtroom, support groups, awareness campaigns with playing cards featuring unsolved cases, and mentoring programs like "Tea with Queens, Talk with Kings" to foster community connection and healing. Through her work, Yolanda focuses on empowering survivors and raising awareness about the challenges faced by victims of crime. Her passion for giving back to the community is evident in every initiative, from Crime Victims' Rights Day to support groups that offer grief counseling and advocacy. The organization strives to uplift families, provide crucial resources, and create a sense of purpose through pain. With a growing podcast and dedicated community engagement, Yolanda's mission is to ensure no survivor feels forgotten and to turn tragedy into hope and action for a safer future.

Karen Olson, the inspiring founder of Family Promise, shares her remarkable journey from a single act of kindness to leading an organization that has transformed the lives of over a million individuals. In this heartfelt conversation with Michael VanZetta, Karen opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her mission, including a childhood loss that fueled her empathy for others. From giving a sandwich to a homeless woman at Grand Central Station to creating a nationwide network of support for homeless families, Karen’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and community. She highlights the invisible struggles of homeless families and how Family Promise has provided a way for people of all faiths to make a tangible difference in their local communities. The conversation also delves into Karen’s reflections on life after retirement, her accident that introduced new challenges, and her journey to find purpose through writing her book, Meant for More. With her indomitable spirit, Karen continues to inspire through her advocacy, creativity, and commitment to helping others. Join Michael and Karen as they explore the universal themes of resilience, hope, and the joy that comes from uplifting others. This episode is a moving reminder of how small acts of kindness can spark profound change in the world.

Dr. Anna Sitkoff shares her journey into the field of mental health, from her early experiences studying nutrition to navigating personal challenges, such as supporting family members through addiction and grief. Dr. Sitkoff's passion for holistic care runs deep, offering a unique perspective shaped by her experiences as a naturopathic doctor and a new mom. She explores how life transitions like postpartum anxiety and chronic illness shape her practice and deepen her understanding of whole-body wellness. In this interview, Dr. Sitkoff discusses her integrative approach to mental health, focusing on establishing foundations for optimal health through lifestyle, nutrition, and environment. She details her use of medicinal mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane, explaining how they support stress regulation, neuroplasticity, and overall mental health. Dr. Sitkoff emphasizes a personalized, whole-body approach to care, highlighting the importance of support systems, diverse treatment options, and being open to different paths to healing. Learn more about Dr. Sitkoff’s work and her dedication to natural, comprehensive mental health care.

Lauren Anderson, Executive Director of Our Minds Matter, shares her deeply personal journey of founding the organization following the tragic loss of her brother Josh to suicide. Lauren discusses how this pivotal event inspired her mission to empower teens with the knowledge, tools, and skills to advocate for mental health in their communities. From starting small with memorial runs to now leading a growing team, Lauren explains how Our Minds Matter equips students to build mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and create supportive school environments. Lauren also opens up about her personal healing journey, blending therapy, yoga, and the mind-body connection to navigate her mental health challenges. She reflects on the lessons learned from working with passionate teen leaders and highlights the importance of family and community support in tackling mental health challenges. Discover how Our Minds Matter is making a profound impact across schools in the DC metro area and beyond, and learn how you can support or connect with their vital work. Visit ourmindsmatter.org to learn more!

Robyn Mehlenbeck, Director of the George Mason Center for Community Mental Health (CCMH) and clinical psychologist, discusses the incredible progress CCMH has made over the past year. With a dual mission of training the next generation of behavioral health providers and delivering accessible, affordable mental health services, CCMH is making a profound impact. From a 27% increase in their Spanish emotional support line usage to providing over 2,500 therapy sessions on a sliding scale, this center is truly transforming lives while addressing community needs. Learn more about their innovative programs, including free parent webinars, veteran-focused services, and the importance of addressing social media's effects on mental health. Discover how CCMH fosters community support and empowers future mental health professionals through evidence-based training. Robyn shares the "butterfly effect" of their mission and offers heartfelt advice for anyone navigating tough times: don’t isolate, seek support, and remember that help is always available. Whether you're a mental health advocate, a parent, or someone in need of resources, this inspiring conversation is a must-watch. For more information, visit CCMH’s website at ccmh.gmu.edu and explore their annual report and free resources.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

Chinmayi Balusu is the founder of Simply Neuroscience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making neuroscience accessible and inclusive for young enthusiasts. Her passion for the brain began during high school when she discovered a lack of opportunities for students interested in neuroscience outside of higher education. Motivated to bridge this gap, she started sharing resources online, which resonated with others and grew into a global community. Over the past five years, Simply Neuroscience has remained entirely student and volunteer-led, curating resources such as mentorship programs, podcasts, and virtual conferences to empower first-generation and early-career students. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where complex scientific concepts are made youth-friendly, creating a one-stop platform for exploring neuroscience pathways. Chinmayi emphasizes the importance of collaboration and empathy in advancing both science and society. She highlights the value of integrating lived experiences with research, bridging the gap between clinical studies and real-world applications. This approach ensures that scientific advancements directly address the needs of individuals. Chinmayi also discusses the growing trend among young STEM professionals to embrace storytelling and hands-on experiences, blending humanities with science for a more holistic perspective. Through her leadership, she has inspired others to gain confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their unique experiences to advocate for positive change in neuroscience and beyond.

In this candid conversation with Lauren Morris, host of The Mostly Mental Mom podcast, we dive into her deeply personal journey with bipolar II disorder. Diagnosed in 2014, Lauren shares the challenges and revelations she's faced over the last 10 years as she navigates the complexities of living with a mental illness. From learning to manage day-to-day stressors to overcoming societal expectations, she unpacks the "silent battle" many face but few openly discuss. Lauren’s decision to launch her podcast stemmed from a desire to connect authentically with others, embracing the raw, unfiltered messiness of life with bipolar disorder. Through music, conversations, and vulnerable storytelling, Lauren has found a way to break through the isolating barriers of mental illness, inspiring others to know they aren’t alone. Her insights on redefining success, facing fears of vulnerability, and balancing family dynamics while managing mental health resonate deeply. Whether you're on your own mental health journey or looking to understand others better, this discussion offers a compassionate reminder that sharing our stories has the power to heal, connect, and empower. Tune in and be inspired by Lauren’s resilience and her commitment to paving new paths for those living with bipolar disorder.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Isabelle Gullo, Executive Director and Co-Founder of C.A.R.E.4Paws. Isabelle shares the heartfelt journey behind creating this incredible nonprofit, founded in 2009 to strengthen the bond between pets and their families. From her beginnings as a shelter volunteer to spearheading initiatives like mobile clinics and free spay/neuter programs, Isabelle reveals how C.A.R.E.4Paws tackles the root causes of pet abandonment and ensures access to care for underserved communities. In this episode, we explore how pets provide companionship, responsibility, and love, especially for seniors, disabled individuals, and those experiencing homelessness. Learn how Isabelle’s team collaborates with family welfare organizations to create holistic solutions that keep pets and families united. Whether you're an animal lover or passionate about community support, this conversation highlights the profound impact of honoring the human-animal connection. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🐾❤️

Grace Quantock is a psychotherapeutic counsellor and author of Live and Well with Chronic Illness. Her journey into the mental health field was catalyzed by a deeply challenging experience with a psychiatrist after being diagnosed with PTSD following a car accident. Living with chronic health conditions and facing insensitive medical treatment, Grace became determined to create a more compassionate approach to supporting individuals with complex needs. Drawing from her own lived experiences, Grace has dedicated her career to offering transformative care through her therapeutic practice and innovative techniques. Her work is grounded in understanding the broader societal context and systemic issues that impact mental health, a perspective that shapes her unique "somatic complexity compassion therapy" approach. In addition to her therapeutic practice, Grace is the author of Living Well with Chronic Illness, which empowers readers to create personalized wellness roadmaps. Unlike traditional self-help books, her work emphasizes self-discovery and practical tools to find a unique path to wellness, devoid of unrealistic societal expectations. Grace integrates creative, therapeutic journaling as part of her work, providing clients with an accessible outlet for expression and self-reflection. Her passion for empowering others extends through workshops, writing, and community involvement, all aimed at transforming the conversation around chronic illness and mental health into one of compassion, resilience, and possibility.

In this insightful interview, Michael VanZetta sits down with Craig Cecilio, the visionary CEO and founder of DiversyFund. Craig shares how his working-class upbringing inspired him to revolutionize investing, making it accessible to everyone. From his 20+ years in the investment world to creating a platform that democratizes access to private markets, Craig discusses the journey and challenges of going against industry norms. He opens up about the mental health practices that keep him balanced, the importance of embracing discomfort, and how these habits have shaped his personal and professional growth. Craig also delves into his passion for personal development and fitness, sharing incredible anecdotes, like his early experiences learning meditation with Deepak Chopra and training alongside elite athletes in CrossFit. Whether you're interested in investing, mental health, or simply seeking motivation to overcome life's challenges, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical tips for success. Don't miss Craig’s wisdom on navigating life's uncertainties and finding opportunities for growth.

In this interview, Sabrina Trobak, a registered clinical counselor from British Columbia, Canada, shares her inspiring journey from teaching to counseling, driven by a desire to address the deeper issues surrounding mental health. Her transition was sparked by a powerful workshop on suicide and core beliefs, leading her to adopt a therapeutic model focused on uncovering and reshaping core beliefs such as self-worth and value. Sabrina explains how understanding and challenging these deep-seated beliefs can have a profound impact on alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health struggles. By working with parents, she emphasizes the critical role they play in shaping their children’s core beliefs, advocating for generational change and a deeper awareness of self-worth within families. Sabrina discusses the rewarding aspects of her counseling practice, including seeing clients experience life-changing "light bulb moments." With a holistic approach to self-care that includes exercise, journaling, and maintaining balance, she models the practices she teaches. Sabrina is also a published author and public speaker, using her platform to make mental health resources accessible to more people. She encourages individuals to embrace and process their emotions to foster true healing. Her passion for spreading awareness, along with her book and social media outreach, underscores her commitment to reshaping how we understand and support mental health.

Jon Nelson is a passionate mental health advocate and lived-experience expert dedicated to eradicating the stigma surrounding mental illness. Having faced the challenges of serious mental illness and depressive disorder for much of his life, Jon’s personal journey fuels his tireless mission to foster open dialogue, understanding, and compassion. After a 20-year career in biopharmaceutical communications, he pivoted to focus on mental health advocacy, bringing invaluable expertise and personal insight to his work. His life took a transformative turn in 2022 when he underwent a clinical trial for deep brain stimulation, a groundbreaking procedure that led him to remission and reignited his determination to fight for others navigating similar struggles. Jon collaborates closely with the biopharmaceutical industry and serves as a strategic advisor to leading nonprofits like One Mind and the Mental Health Collaborative. His advocacy extends to national platforms, including the NIH congressional briefing on the BRAIN Initiative, where he amplifies the voices of mental health patients. Through appearances on podcasts such as Out of Patients and Stimulating Brains, as well as features in media outlets like NPR, PBS, and The Philadelphia Inquirer, Jon shares his inspiring story and advocates for systemic change. Committed to keeping patients at the heart of every initiative, he continues to work toward dismantling misconceptions about mental illness, saving lives, and building a more empathetic world.

Dr. Donna Volpitta, co-founder of the Mental Health Literacy Collaborative, shares her inspiring journey to address a crucial gap in education: mental health literacy. From groundbreaking legislation to grassroots implementation, Dr. Volpitta discusses the barriers to mental health education and how her organization empowers communities, educators, and parents to confidently teach essential mental health concepts. Learn about the four pillars of mental health literacy—maintaining positive mental health, understanding common disorders and treatments, seeking help effectively, and reducing stigma—and why these are vital for schools and communities nationwide. Michael VanZetta, host of PiZetta Media, joins Dr. Volpitta in an engaging discussion about the importance of empathy, the challenges educators face, and the transformative power of collaboration across states. Hear about the impactful initiatives, including the new interstate work group and Mental Health Literacy Aware program, that are making waves in over 38 states. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or advocate, this interview provides valuable insights into creating a future where mental health literacy is foundational in education and beyond. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more meaningful conversations about mental health advocacy!

In this heartfelt interview, Nicole Angelique Kerr, an eternality advocate, public speaker, and neuroemotional technique practitioner, shares her transformative journey following a near-death experience at age 19. The traumatic car crash at the Air Force Academy led her to reevaluate and deconstruct long-held beliefs, ultimately fostering a lifelong commitment to holistic wellness. Nicole emphasizes the importance of addressing all domains of health—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. She details her experiences navigating trauma, embracing emotional healing, and finding spiritual purpose, inspiring others to prioritize self-love and dismantle limiting beliefs. Nicole offers a powerful perspective on spirituality, urging individuals to reconnect with their higher purpose and live free from judgment and fear. She discusses the value of giving back, the profound impact of supportive relationships, and the essential work of dismantling internalized shame and trauma. Her dedication to helping others includes raising awareness for veteran mental health and using her story to encourage transformation and hope. Nicole's book, "You Are Deathless," serves as a guide for those seeking healing and a deeper understanding of life beyond physical existence. Connect with her for insights and inspiration on navigating life's challenges and embracing your spiritual journey.

Alyssa Nash, an artist and mental health advocate, opens up about her lifelong mental health journey marked by anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. Alyssa shares how confronting these challenges and undergoing trauma therapy helped her gain clarity and healing. She describes her mental health journey as a complex but transformative process, particularly given her family's history with a gene linked to frontotemporal dementia. Alyssa discusses her creative expression as a lifeline through dark periods and highlights the profound sense of relief and recognition she felt when finally receiving an accurate diagnosis, underscoring the power of self-awareness and proper mental health care. Art, particularly text-based creations and oil painting, serves as a therapeutic outlet and a means of self-expression for Alyssa. She candidly discusses her process of creating and sharing her art, emphasizing its transformative role in processing emotions and connecting with others who feel isolated in their struggles. For Alyssa, every word and brushstroke is a step toward healing and a way to help others feel less alone. Her story underscores the importance of shared experiences, the healing power of creativity, and the courage it takes to bring inner battles into the light.

In this inspiring interview, Dr. Louise Metcalf, creator and co-founder of Gheorg, shares her mission to revolutionize mental health support for children. With over 30 years of experience as a psychologist, Dr. Metcalf discusses how rising rates of childhood anxiety sparked the creation of Gheorg, a virtual robot designed to help kids aged 7-12 navigate their mental health. Combining science-backed techniques with accessible technology, Gheorg empowers children to understand and express their emotions while strengthening family dynamics. Dr. Metcalf explains how the app works, its impact on families, and the critical role technology plays in addressing the global mental health crisis. Join us as Dr. Metcalf reveals the vision behind Gheorg, her passion for blending psychology and innovation, and her dream of making mental health support accessible to children worldwide. Learn about the app's unique features, how it fosters confidence and emotional growth in kids, and the steps being taken to ensure Gheorg reaches families in underserved communities. Whether you're a parent, mental health advocate, or simply curious about the future of digital mental health tools, this conversation is packed with insights and hope for a mentally well generation. Visit www.gheorg.com to learn more!

Camila Rodriguez, MSW is a Pre-Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, VA

In this interview, Taylor Jones, Executive Director of Bikes for the World, shares the mission and global impact of this Rockville, Maryland-based nonprofit. Bikes for the World collects donated bikes from the Washington DC area and distributes them to grassroots NGO partner programs in developing countries, positively transforming lives by providing reliable transportation. With over 20 years of operation, the organization has supported programs in 31 countries, ranging from healthcare access and vocational training to micro-lending and small business support. Through a robust volunteer network, the organization prepares and ships these bikes, demonstrating how a single bicycle can offer independence, increase accessibility, and expand opportunities for education and employment. Taylor explains how his personal passion for cycling and experiences abroad have fueled his commitment to the organization. From empowering volunteers—especially young people—to gain confidence and hands-on skills, to seeing how bikes enhance mobility and autonomy for individuals worldwide, the work of Bikes for the World resonates deeply. The organization is focused not just on distributing bikes but also on building lasting partnerships and adapting to community needs, even exploring new technologies like e-bikes. For Taylor, every bike represents the potential to reshape lives, broaden horizons, and drive meaningful change. Visit BikesForTheWorld.org to learn more, volunteer, or donate to this impactful cause.

Kody Green, a mental health advocate known as the "Schizophrenic Hippie," shares his inspiring journey from facing the challenges of schizophrenia, addiction, and incarceration to becoming a full-time advocate for mental health awareness. Growing up as a caregiver for his mother with schizoaffective disorder, Kody witnessed the stigma surrounding mental illness early on. After his own diagnosis, he turned his struggles into a mission to educate others, promote understanding, and support those navigating similar journeys. Kody highlights the importance of building a supportive community, using humor in advocacy, and prioritizing self-care while helping others. Kody also discusses his upcoming book, Minds Over Meetings, which explores mental health and mental illness in the workplace, offering practical insights for individuals, HR professionals, and leaders. From partnering with organizations like Johnson & Johnson to engaging in political advocacy for mental health reform, Kody is dedicated to driving systemic change. Discover how his content, speaking engagements, and advocacy efforts are breaking down stigma and fostering hope. Connect with Kody on social media @SchizophrenicHippie or visit codygreen.com to learn more!

Jonathan Marx is the Host and Founder of GoToHealth Media

Dr. Elizabeth Markle, co-founder and executive director of Open Source Wellness, joins us to share her journey in the mental health field and how it led to the creation of her groundbreaking nonprofit organization. From an early passion for becoming a therapist to working within healthcare systems that often fell short of patients' needs, Dr. Markle recognized the need for something different. Open Source Wellness was born out of a desire to create a supportive, culturally affirmative, and community-driven model where individuals could experience "community as medicine." By focusing on movement, nutrition, social connection, and stress reduction, Open Source Wellness brings participants together to create real, lasting changes in their health and well-being. In this inspiring interview, Dr. Markle delves into the philosophy behind community-driven health coaching, the transformative power of group support, and the importance of creating joyful and culturally informed spaces for healing. As she describes, healthcare must evolve beyond traditional "good luck" prescriptions and embrace models that empower individuals through connection and support. With her team's dedication and the power of collective healing, Open Source Wellness offers an inclusive path forward for physical, mental, and social wellness. Learn more about their innovative approach and how you can get involved or benefit from this movement to reshape healthcare.

Adam Nemer, founder of Simple Mental Health, shares his personal journey from a high-pressure career as a senior executive with undiagnosed anxiety and depression to becoming a dedicated mental health advocate. Nemer recounts how a thoughtful conversation initiated by a senior leader who took a mental health first aid course transformed his life, paving the way for his own healing journey and a redefined approach to leadership. By normalizing discussions around mental health, Nemer illustrates how creating supportive workplace environments can drastically improve both employee well-being and business performance. Throughout the conversation with Michael VanZetta, Nemer passionately details his mission to educate business leaders on building stigma-free workplace cultures. Through training programs and open dialogue, Simple Mental Health aims to make mental health literacy a key component of leadership, proving that compassion and awareness can transform not only individual lives but entire organizations. Nemer’s commitment to shifting mindsets around mental health in the corporate world is a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and authentic leadership.

In this interview, Jeff Johnston, CEO and founder of Brightn, shares his deeply moving and transformative journey that inspired the creation of his mental wellness initiative. Jeff opens up about his life-changing moments, from personal success as an investment firm owner to profound loss when he lost his son, Seth, to fentanyl poisoning, followed by the passing of his wife due to alcoholism. These heartbreaking events motivated Jeff to create Brightn, an app aimed at empowering youth with mental wellness tools, rather than resorting to labels and prescriptions. Jeff's vulnerability and determination to rise from tragedy illustrate the power of resilience and a purpose-driven mission to bring change to others who are struggling. Throughout the interview with Michael VanZetta, Jeff shares powerful insights into the complexities of grief, addiction, and mental health, reflecting on how society handles these challenges, particularly among young people. He emphasizes the importance of support systems, authentic conversations, and building community connections. Jeff's dedication to helping others, especially through tools like Brightn and his podcast, reflects a relentless desire to change the narrative around mental health, offering hope and empowerment instead of stigma and despair. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of how pain, when reframed, can lead to lasting, positive impact on the world.

Dr. Julie Radlauer, CEO of Collectively, shares her journey and dedication to supporting mental health for children and families. Since founding Collectively in 2020, she has focused on transforming complex research on behavioral health into practical, digestible tools for everyday people. Drawing from her vast experience in public health and work across child welfare, probation, and educational systems, Dr. Radlauer uses her expertise to create impactful resources, including a workbook titled "Connect 100 Ways to Create Happiness in Your Life." This innovative tool features actionable activities for improving social connection, managing social media, and more—helping individuals, families, therapists, and teachers alike enhance their mental well-being. In this interview, Dr. Radlauer discusses the challenges and rewards of public speaking, turning research into engaging, relatable material, and the power of collaboration. Her passion for empowering communities and creating meaningful change shines through, whether in one-on-one workshops or large public events. Dr. Radlauer’s hope is to foster a movement around social connection, particularly for young people, to promote genuine interaction and belonging in a digitally dominated world. Learn how her work is making a difference in the global mental health crisis and how you can use her strategies to create more connection and happiness in your own life.

Sarah Fargo O'Brien, a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia, shares her inspiring journey into the mental health field, fueled by a deep desire to understand human behavior and connection. From high school psychology classes to navigating her own experiences with complex PTSD, anxiety, and relational trauma, Sarah found her calling in helping others heal. Her unique blend of professional training and personal insight allows her to genuinely connect with clients, offering a safe space to navigate their own challenges. With a focus on trauma-informed care, Sarah's therapeutic approach emphasizes that healing is a deeply human process that benefits both client and therapist. Sarah's dedication extends beyond one-on-one therapy, as she leverages her voice through podcasts, writing, and public speaking. Using platforms like LinkedIn to share her expertise, she aims to educate and break the stigma around mental health care. Passionate about creating systemic change, Sarah envisions trauma-informed leadership and practices becoming standard in all industries. By sharing her experiences and advocating for more compassionate work environments, she hopes to foster a culture that acknowledges and supports mental health, helping individuals and communities thrive together.

Cathy Applefeld Olson, founder of Hollywood and Mind, shares her passionate journey as a mental health advocate, emphasizing the importance of celebrating individual uniqueness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Inspired by her experiences as a mother and a seasoned entertainment journalist, Cathy saw a powerful intersection between mental health and media. Having countless conversations with influential figures in the entertainment industry, she recognized the untapped potential of using media's reach to foster impactful change. Her initiative, Hollywood and Mind, serves as a central hub connecting mental health efforts across sectors, fostering collaborations that elevate awareness and action. Driven by a deep desire to address the global mental health crisis, Cathy launched her Forbes column, "Mind Reading," where she interviews artists, athletes, and influential voices about their mental health journeys. From this work emerged Hollywood and Mind, which has grown into a community-centered platform championing mental health conversations and events led by experts and industry stars like Demi Lovato and Marlon Wayans. Cathy is determined to use entertainment's immense influence to inspire meaningful change, amplify mental health stories, and create lasting impact both within and beyond the entertainment industry.

Natalie Lamb is a Life, Relationship, and Grief Coach, as well as a Prevention Educator, Workshop Host, and Speaker.

Patrick Curley is the Clinic Director at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, VA

In this conversation, Dr. Jason S. Frishman, a psychologist and men's coach, shares insights on his journey into the mental health field and his role as the lead coach at Journeyman. Originally aspiring to be a neurosurgeon, Dr. Frishman shifted his focus to psychology, driven by a passion for human connections and stories. His work integrates adventure and narrative therapy, guiding fathers to navigate and reshape their personal and social stories, improve their relationships, and gain agency in their lives. Through a combination of storytelling and self-awareness, Dr. Frishman helps men connect with their values and transform their roles within their families and communities. Dr. Frishman reflects on his own experiences as a father and how they inform his coaching practice. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, intentionality, and consistent actions in building meaningful connections and navigating life's challenges. Sharing anecdotes from his personal life, Dr. Frishman illustrates how he applies his teachings in his own family, striving to embody the values he promotes. By fostering a sense of agency and connection, he empowers men to take responsibility for their growth and to be present and engaged fathers and partners. His dedication to helping men transform their lives extends beyond individual change, aiming to create a broader impact on society through connected fatherhood and healthy masculinity.

Shannon Walker, founder and CEO of Northwest Battle Buddies, discusses her remarkable journey in dog training and her dedication to supporting veterans with PTSD through service dogs. Shannon shares how her passion for dog training began over 30 years ago and evolved into a mission to help veterans. From training her first German Shepherd to building a for-profit business, Shannon's dedication and determination led her to create Northwest Battle Buddies, a nonprofit that has provided 257 service dogs to veterans, all without losing a single veteran to suicide. Throughout the conversation, Shannon reveals the impact of these service dogs on veterans’ lives, sharing emotional stories of courage, transformation, and hope. She emphasizes the ongoing need for public support, training facilities, and resources to continue their life-changing work. This interview provides a powerful look at how one person’s passion for dog training has become a vital resource for America's heroes, transforming lives and giving veterans a renewed sense of purpose and freedom.

Natasha Tracy is a highly respected speaker and writer, with over two decades of experience living with and exploring bipolar disorder. Diagnosed more than 20 years ago, Natasha shares her profound and often challenging journey with a mission to break down misconceptions and provide hope for others. Growing up with little understanding of mental health, Natasha faced numerous obstacles, from being misdiagnosed with depression to battling through ineffective treatments. It was only through perseverance and an unexpected medication discovery that she found a semblance of stability. Today, she reflects on her past struggles as she continues to navigate life with bipolar disorder, determined to inspire, educate, and help others by sharing her authentic lived experiences. Natasha's path to becoming a mental health advocate and writer was unplanned yet deeply impactful. What began as a personal outlet for her experiences turned into a widely read collection of writings that save lives and change perspectives. With more than 2,000 articles and a successful book titled Lost Marbles, she candidly addresses taboo topics, provides treatment insights, and helps empower those living with mental health conditions. As she prepares for the release of her second book, Bipolar Rules, Natasha focuses on providing practical tools and insights for living successfully with bipolar disorder. She speaks passionately about workplace mental health, hoping to foster greater understanding and eliminate the stigma faced by so many. Natasha remains committed to reaching out and connecting with individuals through her work, empowering them to face their challenges with knowledge, courage, and resilience.

Elizabeth Cerrato is a therapist at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, VA

In this engaging interview, Michael VanZetta speaks with Dr. Saloni Surah, a multifaceted professional who combines her expertise in medicine, therapy, and writing to impact lives meaningfully. Dr. Surah has an impressive career background as a former HIV and sexual health physician, with experience working across the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Alongside her medical career, she is also an EMDR therapist and coach, focusing on trauma treatment and mental health, which she discusses in depth, sharing her journey with PTSD and the transformative power of EMDR therapy. Her unique career blend also includes authoring children's books that aim to challenge stereotypes, promote empowerment, and instill resilience in young readers. Throughout the interview, Dr. Surah highlights the importance of creating relatable, strong female role models in children’s literature. She introduces her latest book, Flora Investigates the Case of the Missing Gold Eggs, a detective mystery aimed at young readers. This book, infused with themes of independence and empowerment, reflects her mission to provide healthy, realistic role models. VanZetta and Dr. Surah explore how her stories convey messages of resilience, hope, and acceptance, especially for those who have experienced trauma or hardship. This conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of healing, storytelling, and the power of representation in literature for children.

Rhys Kuhl-Chapman Clinical Social Worker at Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, gives mental health insights and support strategies.

Max Skinner, Community Development Manager at Movember, shares insights into Movember's mission to improve men's mental health and prevent suicide.

Jessica Skobel is the Assistant Clinic Director at Eliie Mental Health Woodbridge

Saadia Ali and Jennifer Chesley are the Co-Chairs for the Lived Experience Committee at the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder

Benjamin Kintisch is the creator of “Life Review: The Hospice Musical”

Dr. Emily Guarnotta is a Psychologist & Co-Founder of Phoenix Health

Don Donnelly is the author of Navigating PANDAS: A Family's Journey to Healing and Advocacy

Kimmy Henderson talks about living with Bipolar disorder and creating the Bipolar Butterfly Project

Susan Bloom is the founder of Connection and Synergy

Elizabeth Kipp is a Stress Management and Historical Trauma Specialist who integrates Trauma-Trained and Yoga-Informed Addiction Recovery Coaching, Ancestral Clearing, Compassionate Inquiry, and Yoga practices to support individuals in their healing journeys.

Wendy Singer is the Executive Director at No Shame On U

Rachel Beck is an accomplished author, consultant, speaker, influencer, and entrepreneur, known for her impactful insights and dedication to empowering others in their personal and professional journeys.

Jay Kiel is the creator of 10for10. 10for10 strives to break down the stigma around mental health and wellness one conversation at a time.

Shawn Lesser, Founder of THE REAL Mental Health Foundation, talks about his mental health journey and The REAL Summit.

Reesa Morala is the Founder of Embrace Renewal Therapy & Wellness

Daarina Jefferson talks about living with Bipolar Disorder.