Who You Callin’ Crazy?!

Big Feelings, Bold Truths: Disability, Art, and Self-Advocacy - Alie B Gorrie (arts educator, disability inclusion advocate)

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:00:00 -0400

I’m joined by the incredible Alie B, a legally blind arts educator, disability advocate, and all-around powerhouse of empathy and expression. Alie B shares how discovering theatre and monologue work became her first form of self-advocacy.

She opens up about living with low vision, navigating an eating disorder in her youth, and how she now supports others in recovery through creativity, compassion, and somatic work.

We explore how disability is often unseen but deeply felt and how it’s the "only club any of us can join at any time." Alie B reminds us that disability doesn’t discriminate, and how those who live with it often have to work so hard to self-advocate for accommodation amidst their joy and connection.

This conversation dives into:
✨ The intersection of art and medicine
✨ Why creative expression is a powerful path to healing
✨ The emotional toll of being a high achiever and a big feeler
✨ How creative practices help us rewire the nervous system

Whether you have a disability, love someone who does, or just want to better understand how art, advocacy, and embodiment intersect, this episode will move you.

Alie B's Website: https://www.aliebgorrie.com/

Juliet's Website: https://yepigototherapy.com/

Juliet's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yepigototherapy

Alie B's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliebg/

Won't Remain Silent Anymore - Mike Gminski (Duke/NBA Athlete, Basketball Analyst)

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500

CW: substance abuse/addiction

In this powerful episode, Juliet (a proud Duke fan!) sits down with former Duke basketball star and 14-season NBA veteran, Mike Gminski. Now a basketball analyst, Mike opens up about his most fulfilling role yet—navigating recovery and using his story to help others.

Mike shares what it was like to be a young athlete in a hyper-competitive world where their "brains are wired to be the best." He candidly discusses his relationship with alcohol, which began at age 15, and the traumas that fueled his addiction. He reflects on the interventions attempted by former teammates and friends, as well as the pivotal moments that led him to seek change.

With deep honesty, Mike reveals how "silence and isolation almost killed me" and why he’s now committed to speaking out. You'll hear about his friendships, gestures from Coach K, and a life-changing moment with his son that reshaped his journey. Throughout the conversation, Juliet highlights themes of shame, ego, gratitude, and growth—offering insights that resonate far beyond sports.

This is a must-listen episode filled with raw honesty, resilience, and inspiration.

Mike Gminski Instagram: @gman43duke

Sana House
Juliet's Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: Yep, I Go To Therapy
Sun Counseling & Wellness

Beyond Words / Bodywork For Healing - Laura Phoenix (somatic practitioner)

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0500

Juliet chats with Laura Phoenix, a writer, healer, yoga teacher, and somatic experiencing practitioner who is queer, neurodivergent, and traumatized. Their life's work is guiding people in yoga and bodywork for trauma recovery.

Juliet & Laura discuss going beyond 'talk therapy' and learning to listen to our bodies that are always trying to tell us something. They connect over their shared humanity in "walking the walk" in their own mental health journeys. They dive into what somatic experiencing is and how it supplements talk therapy to help clients go deeper. It makes sense as we're WHOLE beings and can access "movement as a tool to broaden our awareness."

There is lots to explore in the world of trauma and bodywork and Laura posits "isn't that where the medicine is?" regarding something specific in therapeutic work. Listen in to see if you agree!

Laura Phoenix: Warrior Pose Yoga & Healing
Juliet's Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: Yep, I Go To Therapy
Sun Counseling & Wellness

Anxiety Is A Friend?! - Haley Weaver (author, illustrator)

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Juliet talks with Haley Weaver...you probably know her as @haleydrewthis from her adorable and relatable illustrations on Instagram! Haley recently published her first book called Give Me Space but Don't Go Far: My Unlikely Friendship With Anxiety.

Juliet and Haley discuss the function of anxiety and how understanding your relationship with it can help you cope. Juliet shares some psychoeducation and Haley shares about her personal history with anxiety and how she uses her drawing to better understand it. She also opens up about what its like to have such a big following on social media.

Listen in to this fun conversation and let us know what you learn or how it inspires you!

Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: YepIGoToTherapy.com
Juliet's Practice: Sun Counseling & Wellness
Haley on Instagram: @HaleyDrewThis
Haley on Substack: Haley Wrote This
Haley's book: wherever books are sold!

Problematic Sexual Behaviors - David Sanchez (Therapist)

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Juliet talks with fellow therapist, David Sanchez. David specializes in working with clients with problematic sexual behaviors (porn, affairs/infidelity, compulsive sexual behaviors, etc.).

David educates listeners on what these behaviors actually are, removing stigma from it as his work is about understanding the person underneath the behavior: "It might be something you did, but not who you are." He also discusses the impact of these behaviors on partners and family members.

We also discuss men's mental health, in particular, and the skills that they can learn to practice assertiveness, healthy coping, and boundaries. David shares a bit about his own mental health and relating to being the "nice guy" and honing these skills himself.

Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: YepIGoToTherapy.com
Juliet's Practice: Sun Counseling & Wellness
David's Practice: Charlotte Counseling Associates

Neurodivergent Superpower! - Matt Zakreski (psychologist, author, speaker)

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Dr. Matthew Zakreski (known as “Dr. Matt”) is a seasoned clinical psychologist and professional speaker renowned for his expertise in serving neurodivergent individuals (people with different brains such as gifted, ADHD, Autism, and dyslexia). Passionate about reducing stigma surrounding neurodiversity, Dr. Matt is driven by his mission to promote a culture of compassion and understanding in order to support people in embracing understanding and celebrating their unique brains and ways of operating in the world.

"Z" (as I've called him since college!) and I are aligned in our mission of authenticity and ending the stigma. We discuss the value of therapy when you "bring your tea-spillingest self as you find the courage to go there."

He is an expert in living, teaching, and working with neurodivergence. We dig into ADHD, the highly sensitive trait, dyslexia, autism, & giftedness to bring you better understanding. We discuss the process of diagnosing, differences between genders, being diagnosed later in life, and how common this really is (1 in 5 people are neurodivergent!).

We also talk about bringing main character energy to your own life and how it's never too late to understand your own brain as that can only help enhance your well-being!

Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: YepIGoToTherapy.com
Matt on Instagram: @DrMattZakreski
Matt's Websites: DrMattZakreski.com and The NeurodiversityCollective.com

My Child Is Trans, Now What? - Ben Greene (Public Speaker, LGBTQ+ Inclusion Consultant)

Thu, 16 May 2024 14:00:00 -0400

CW: suicidality

Ben Greene (he/him) is transgender man, author, advocate, & public speaker. He was in Charlotte to speak at the PFLAG Charlotte Pride & Purpose Gala, so he and Juliet got to record this episode live at Queen City Podcast Network!

Ben says he's in the business of "being the person I needed when I was younger." He shares his coming out story and his curiosity around what could've been different if he had access to different resources, support, and knew how to talk about it when he was quite young: "I didn't know I was a boy, I just knew I was bad at being a girl." He also goes on to discuss his medical transition.

Ben shares about his own mental health while "locking my closet door from the inside" for so long. Finally, he shares how he didn't need his parents to be experts right away, he just needed them to say they loved him and that he was safe. He shares several practical tools and tips for allies.

Ben shares some really great metaphors about:

what's expected from allies
describing identities and understanding sexuality, gender, etc.

Ben's passion is making all of this a joy-filled conversation. He says that conversations around trans youth begin and end around suicide statistics which is so important AND we can't just stay focused on what to avoid, but also what we stand to gain.

Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's Website: YepIGoToTherapy.com
Ben on Instagram: @Pseudo.Bro
Ben's Website: BGTransTalks.com
Ben's Book: My Child Is Trans, Now What? A Joy-Centered Approach To Support
Recorded at the Queen City Podcast Network
Sponsored by PFLAG Charlotte

Feeling Seen - Summer Baruth (HR Strategist & Global Speaker)

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Juliet chats with Summer Baruth, an industrial and organizational psychologist who is a global leader in human resources. Summer's passion is in making the uncomfortable comfortable and meeting people where they are to help them see things differently. In this episode, Juliet & Summer get into the real real about helping others feel seen, but discussing if they allow themselves to be truly seen?! They also discuss the grief that happens around losing friendships. This is a topic that Juliet is passionate about putting more focus on: the unique attachments that occur in friendships and how to navigate it when they change.

Other topics Juliet & Summer discuss:

depression, anxiety, and being a people pleaser
imposter syndrome
putting up our own walls and protection
psychological safety in the workplace

Juliet on Instagram
Juliet on LinkedIn
YepIGoToTherapy.com
Summer on LinkedIn
Summer on Instagram

Everybody Has Anxiety- Amber Benzinger (anxious therapist)

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0500

Amber is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in the state of New Jersey. She is a therapist, an advocate, a feeler, and a flawed human and she's no stranger to anxiety.

In this episode, Amber and Juliet talk about their definitions of anxiety, various manifestations of anxiety, and how we know it's time to take a deeper look at our anxiety. They discuss tools for getting curious about one's anxiety and learning how to trust yourself again and tolerate anxious feelings. They also talk about the impact of social media on mental health and the nuances that aren't captured in that space. You'll finish this episode knowing that while anxiety may be a part of your story, it's not all that you are and doesn't have to stand in your way.

Juliet on Instagram: YepIGoToTherapy
Amber on Instagram: amber_vs_anxiety
Amber's The Anxiety Lab

Babes With Anxiety - Lindsay Henricks (Babe & Butcher)

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Juliet chats with Lindsay Anvik Henricks, co-owner of a make-your-own-charcuterie business: Babe and Butcher in Charlotte, NC. Lindsay is also a big advocate for therapy and tending to your mental wellness as she's open about her own journey with anxiety and depression.

CW: fertility, postpartum mental health

Tune in to this FULL episode as Juliet & Lindsay chat about:

finding the right therapist
the intersection of anxiety, depression, and entrepreneurship
how we can connect patterns in our personal lives that then show up professionally
what's it like to work with your spouse/partner
the journey to getting pregnant and the power of connecting with others who understand similar suffering
the risk and reward of vulnerability
coping ahead for postpartum mental health
how Kurt Vonnegut describes depression (Juliet loves this metaphor!)
our relationship to depression
taking medication for mood disorders
not BEING what you DO (including Juliet's favorite quote!)
and so much more!

Links:
Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's new book: Who You Callin' Crazy?!
Lindsay on Instagram: @BabeAndButcher
Babe and Butcher: https://www.babeandbutcher.com/

Holding the Mystery of Faith in Therapy - Danielle Hughes (Therapist)

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode, fellow therapist, Danielle Hughes, discusses what it means to be a faith-based counselor. She describes what it is like to have the permission to wrestle with spirituality in a therapy session, however a client may define spirituality for themselves.

Danielle and Juliet dive into some mental health buzzwords that need our attention: embodiment and radical acceptance. As they tease out what these get to look like for individual clients, the listener gets a feel for what holistic treatment (mind, body, and spirit) can entail. As humans, we so often try to think our way out of a problem or out of discomfort when our bodies, as Danielle says, are reading and responding to emotions. She says that we need to learn to listen to our bodies and perhaps connect to our spirituality, as well.

Danielle in her practice, Cultivate Charlotte, is working to be a greenhouse for growth and an ally in cultivating faith for clients.

Links:
Juliet on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
Juliet's new book: Who You Callin' Crazy?!
Danielle's Website: Cultivate Charlotte

Talking to Kids About Body Image - Rennie Dyball (Author)

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of "Who You Callin' Crazy?!" Juliet Kuehnle interviews Rennie Dyball, an
author and editor. Rennie shares about her journey from ghostwriting celebrity memoirs to authoring several books. Her latest is her picture book debut entitled: B Is For Bellies, a celebration of every body. So, of course, much of their conversation centers around body image -- for us adults and how we can help influence that of our children.

Juliet and Rennie also discuss the importance of storytelling and the joy of finding one's niche. Together they explore some of the impactful topics covered in Rennie’s books, as well as the books that have impacted her; from topics including ADHD to body image.

Timestamps
[00:02:15] Currently co-authoring an ADHD and self-help book.
[00:11:35] Breaking down body image issues.
[00:15:04] The Fuck It Diet – a book that helped Rennie ease out of diet culture.
[00:20:37] Managing uncomfortable emotions.
[00:21:04] Body positivity and its evolution.
[00:25:43] The power of mantras.
[00:28:10] Talking to kids about body image.

Links:
Juliet on Instagram @YepIGoToTherapy
Rennie Dyball
B Is For Bellies

Attacking Personal Development Head On - Christopher Weedon (Mentally Shredded)

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Who You Callin' Crazy?!, Juliet Kuehnle interviews Chris Weedon, the founder of Mentally Shredded. Chris shares his journey of overcoming his own mental health challenges and finding peace after retiring from soccer. He discusses the importance of adding value to the world through advocacy and personal development. Chris also opens up about the difficulties of building a business and the rewards it brings. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and vulnerability.

Timestamps
[00:01:20] Sharing his story and advocacy.
[00:06:28] "Chris, you're more than soccer."
[00:09:24] Taking Big Risks on Yourself.
[00:13:14] Reclaiming personal power.
[00:19:11] The power of affirmations.
[00:23:41] Navigating identity and acceptance.
[00:28:20] Allowing yourself to date again.
[00:32:21] Embracing the darkness.

Detailed Synopsis
In this episode, Juliet & Chris discuss how creating a space for people to open up and share personal stories can be a catalyst for personal growth and connection with others. The importance of authenticity and vulnerability, both with oneself and with others, is highlighted. Juliet emphasizes that on the other side of vulnerability lies freedom.

In this episode, Chris shares his personal journey of self-discovery and success, emphasizing the importance of personal development and taking risks. He discusses his fear of not being able to discover purpose or have a goal that aligns with his true calling, but how his determination, willpower, and drive have been key qualities in discovering more about himself.

Links:
Juliet on Instagram @YepIGoToTherapy
Get Juliet's Book!
Mentally Shredded

Finding Lasting Impact - Laura Hays (Emergency Physician)

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of "Who You Callin' Crazy?!" host Juliet Kuehnle interviews Laura Hays, an emergency medicine physician and co-founder of Lasting Impact Wellness Group. Laura shares some of her personal story about her mental health and experiencing panic attacks. The conversation emphasizes the universality of mental health struggles and the importance of seeking help and support. Juliet and Laura explore how to take inventory of how we're truly doing as they provide practical tips for checking in on our own mental health. They provide psychoeducation around anxiety that will help listeners understand what's happening in the body alongside these feelings.

Timestamps
00:04:29 Anxiety can appear unexpectedly
00:09:45 Understanding the physiology of anxiety
00:15:20 Being proactive about self-care
00:22:44 Mind-body connection through yoga
00:23:38 The power of the breath
00:33:25 Prioritizing mental health proactively
00:34:50 The importance of self-compassion for mental health

What Therapists Learn From Their Clients (Guest - Kayla Jones / Therapist)

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Summary

In this episode of "Who You Callin’ Crazy," host Juliet Kuehnle interviews therapist Kayla Jones to shed light on the experiences and challenges of being a therapist. They discuss the transition from graduate school to private practice, the stigma around being a therapist, and the weight the job can place on the therapist. Tune in to gain insight into the world of therapy as we humanize the profession.

Timestamps

[00:01:45] Starting out in private practice.

[00:06:37] Therapist's pedestal and humanization.

[00:10:07] Being seen and heard.

[00:14:01] The magic of connection.

[00:17:07] Resentment in client relationships.

[00:21:49] Learning the latest slang.

[00:25:03] The heaviness of the job.

[00:31:34] Incorporating music into therapy.

[00:33:38] The magic of therapy.

Detailed Synopsis

In this episode, Kayla shares her personal experience with burnout. After taking a break and working for a while, she made the decision to pursue graduate school with the goal of becoming a therapist. This decision was influenced by herpassion for psychology and her desire to assist others with their mental health, though she admits being and becoming a therapist has positively impacted her own mental health, more than she ever expected.

During the episode, the significance of finding the right therapist who can provide validation and empower individuals to explore their mental health is emphasized. They discuss the “art of being a therapist.” Juliet and Kayla acknowledge that at times the process of therapy can be challenging for both client and therapist. They acknowledge that by sharing that reality and humanizing the therapist and their experience in the process, they can help the client trust the process as well.

Kayla & Juliet identify some of the beneficial differences for a client between talking to a good friend and speaking with a therapist. Additionally, the therapists touch on the emotional weight of their job and how it can impact them. They acknowledge the weight of their responsibility in helping clients navigate their emotions, behaviors, and actions and emphasize the importance of therapists seeking their own therapy.

Season 3 Kickoff!!!

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0400

Welcome back to Who You Callin' Crazy?! We're finally back! I've missed y'all.

In this short episode, I give info on where I've been for the past year. Hint: I wrote a book!

I'm so excited for this season with lots of new guests. Let's keep ending the stigma, together. Please reach out if you'd like to be a guest or have a suggestion. This season's conversations will also include REAL talk with other therapists and helpers to continue making this information super accessible and relatable.

Follow me on Instagram: @YepIGoToTherapy
More info on the book here: https://whoyoucallincrazy.com/

Internal Hospitality - Steve Palmer (Restaurateur)

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

TW/CW: abuse, addiction

The culture of the food and beverage industry has long been infamous for being an environment that perpetuates mental health struggles and substance use. But to Steve Palmer, this is also the same industry that saved him from his addictions.

Palmer is the founder of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, a hospitality and consulting company that owns and operates more than 20 restaurants and 4 hotels across the southeastern US. He is also the co-founder of Ben's friends, a national nonprofit that acts as a bridge to sobriety for those in the hospitality industry struggling with substance abuse and addiction. Steve's personal journey to sobriety is what makes his work so special as it is all personally stamped by his passion ("obsession with hospitality") and his purpose ("service to others.")

Tune in as we chat about:

Steve's journey to sobriety from the dark depths of addiction, homelessness, and damaged relationships,
Gratitude as an embodied feeling (his tears will move you all to understand this buzzword!),
Imposter syndrome and why the hardest thing for an addict is when their dreams come true,
Attachment styles as his past wounds play out in his marriage,
The presence of emotions in his life and why he feels if he stops being anxious, he stops growing,
The pivotal role therapy played in his recovery and why he still has "Therapy Mondays,"
His thoughts on the sober curious movement

… and so much more!

Connect with Steve Palmer:

Personal Website: www.aboutstevepalmer.com

Company's Website:www.Indigoroad.com

Steve's Book: Say Grace: How the Restaurant Business Saved My Life

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Intentional Living In Your Space (Kenzie Harkey - Simply Dare)

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

From a young age, Kenzie Harkey could pick up on the chaos that a dysfunctional space caused in her physical and mental state. Fast forward to 2017, after spending the previous decade in the health + wellness field, Kenzie knew she was ready for something different but with the same intention: to make a positive impact. And that's how Simply Dare was born!

Simply Dare is a home organization and relocation company that helps you create a simple + functional home so you can do more of what you love. Kenzie and I talk about the psychology behind organization and how our physical spaces can impact mood. She opens up about her journey with ADHD and in family therapy as we explore the both/and of having compassion and hurt from families of origin.

In this episode, Kenzie and I chat about:

How she creates a safe environment for her clients.
Some of the mental health challenges she has overcome.
The beauty of solid, secure therapeutic relationships.
Why therapists don't give advice or answers.
A practical mindfulness skill you can use in your every day.

... and so much more!

Simply Dare Website
Simply Dare Instagram

Links:

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Gotta Till The Soil (Sam Hart, Chef)

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

CW/TW: child abuse, sexual abuse

In this episode, I speak to Sam Hart, chef and owner of Counter- as well as a new restaurant opening this Fall, called Biblio. Sam's culinary journey and innovative restaurant concepts are informed by his mental health journey and, while aligned with his principles, run things counter to what you might expect.

Counter- is a fine dining, story-driven, progressive tasting menu in West Charlotte, where on a seasonal basis, they change not only the food that's on the plates, but also the story that is the driving force behind it. And Biblio, opening up later this year, honors of all the winemakers, vineyards, and distributors that tell their stories through wine lists.

In this rich episode, Sam and I chat about:

Sam's mental health journey and trauma responses,
Why telling stories through food is so important to him,
What it was like to have a diagnosis and an understanding of the mental health issues he was going through,
The stigma around sexuality,
What it means to "succeed" with mental illness versus "struggling" with it,
How Sam tends to and maintains his mental health as a form of self-care.

... and so much more!

Connect with Sam on Instagram: @chefloosely @counterclt

Check out Counter-: https://www.counterclt.com/

The Relatives
Time Out Youth

Saved By The Arts - Chryssie Whitehead (Director/Choreographer)

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400

CW/TW: suicide, substance use

In today's episode, I speak to Chryssie Whitehead, an actress, singer, educator, passionate mentor, and dancer on Broadway, film, and television. Chryssie talks about her recent coming to terms with her diagnosis of Bipolar II Disorder and the process of deciding to write a show about it! About her show, In My Own Little Corner, Chryssie says: "I wrote a show about my journey with bipolar disorder. I wrote a show about my mother's death & her journey with mental illness. I wrote a show about deep love, forgiveness, and letting go of shame."

In this episode, Chryssie and I talk about:

Chryssie's journey with her own mental health and what happened when finally given a diagnosis that made sense to her
Her mom's mental health journey and the secrets kept
How to learn to fight for a solution
Discussion around labels and diagnoses
Tools for finding clarity in one's life with any mental illness

… and so much more!

Connect with Chryssie:

Website: www.chryssiewhitehead.com

Facebook: Chryssie Whitehead

Ellen Forney's Graphic novel: Marbles

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Looking Forward (Tiffany Donovan Marino / Confetti Castle)

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I speak to Tiffany Donovan Marino, the owner of Confetti Castle and the queen of many ideas. Her company, based in Charlotte, NC, specializes in creating fun and unique balloon designs for parties and events. Tiffany is a make-it-happen kind of person and opens up to us about having to be this way while growing up and learning she could only count on herself. Her emphasis on trusting oneself, not getting caught up in criticism, and having the courage & freedom to accept when you're struggling and ask for help are key takeaways.

Tune in as we chat about:

Tiffany's difficult relationship with her mother
How she protected herself while growing up in a chaotic family environment
How to acknowledge your struggles and boldly ask for help
The impact of people not believing you're good enough on self-esteem
Her understanding of therapy and the place it holds in her journey

… and so much more!

Connect with Tiffany:

Company's Website: www.theconfetticastle.com

Instagram: @confetticastle

Personal Instagram account: @confetticastlequeen

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Invisible Disabilities - Brendan Sage

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

We don't talk enough about invisible illnesses and disabilities...those that you can't see simply by looking at a person. This is truly the point of my podcast -- to highlight people's stories and struggles rather than making judgments and assuming we know everything about someone.

In this episode, I speak to my friend Brendan Sage, father of two, who opens up about his journey with epilepsy. Brendan, who's now seizure-free, shares a lot about his mental health during this years long experience. It will surely stir you to embrace gratitude and find acceptance.

Tune in as we chat about:

Brendan's medical journey
How Brendan was finally able to be seizure-free
How seizures interfered with his cognition and how therapy came in handy
How Brendan continues to navigate life, and the mindset shift he embraced during his medical journey
Finding gratitude and acceptance while living with an invisible disability

…and so much more!

Connect with Brendan:

LinkedIn: Brendan Sage

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Who Are You Without the Doing? - Mary Beth Somich (Therapist)

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Mary Beth Somich is a licensed therapist in private practice. She owns a group practice in North Carolina called Your Journey Through, where she primarily works with teens and young adults around issues of family dynamics. Mary Beth also mentors other therapists looking to grow their mental health platforms on Instagram as a modern way to become more accessible and reach more people. She is also the co-host of the “My Therapist Thinks” podcast.

Tune in as we chat about:

How Mary Beth ended up in her profession as a therapist
How her position as an only child informs her understanding of family systems
Her transition from being a ‘yes person’ and amidst enmeshment to setting boundaries
How the two of us, as enneagram 3s, deal with ego and rest
Mary Beth’s favorite therapy myth to bust

…and so much more!

Connect with Mary Beth:

Website: http://yourjourneythrough.com

Instagram: @yourjourneythrough

LinkedIn: Mary Beth Somich

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Hormonal Roulette - Eren Simpson (author, artist)

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 13:00:00 -0400

CW/TW: abuse, kidnapping, suicidal ideation, substance use, postpartum mood disorders

Good moms have bad days, too! These bad days can be exacerbated by childhood and adulthood traumas.

In this episode, I speak to Eren Simpson, friend of mine since 2nd grade (!), a freelance writer, author, grant writer, and artist/illustrator. Eren is a mom of two. Having fought through postpartum mood disorders and not finding the resources she wanted and needed, Eren is on a mission to raise awareness around postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis.

We dive deep into family of origin wounds!

Tune in as we chat about:
-Eren's fractured relationship with her parents from childhood and how it shook her sense of trust and safety
-Finding balance of compassion + anger + hurt, as an adult
-Manic depression brought on by postpartum hormones
-How her childhood experiences shaped her as a parent
-The role her therapist and psychiatrist play in her mental health journey (and when it's okay to break up with one and find a new one!)
... and so much more!

Connect with Eren:
Instagram: @goodmomshavebaddays
Website: https://www.goodmomshavebaddays.com/
Her Book: Good moms Have Bad Days: Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorder

Links
Instagram: @yepigototherapy
Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Body Image: Negotiating Your Relationship With Your Body (Ashley Moser/Renfrew)

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Our worth has nothing to do with our body weight, size, or shape. And yet, we humans are constantly renegotiating our relationships with food, exercise, and our bodies as many of us fall into the trap of shaming, blaming, or hating our bodies. This episode explores what we mean by our "relationship" with these things!

Ashley Moser joins me in this rich discussion. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a certified eating disorder specialist. She works with the Renfrew Center of Charlotte, an eating disorder treatment center - the sponsors of this episode!

Tune in to hear us chat about:

How Ashley and I ended up working with clinical eating disorders
What it means to re-evaluate your relationship with food, body, and exercise
Hyper-awareness around all the commentary about food and bodies
The pressure we face as mothers in the clinical eating disorder field
Predispositions and the genetic component of eating disorders
How different individuals define eating disorder recovery (and is recovery possible!)
The value of therapeutic relationships in recovery from an eating disorder
Body positivity, acceptance, and compassion
Making choices that are more nurturing to ourselves

…and so much more!

Links

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

To learn more about the Renfrew center for eating disorders or to schedule an assessment visit: https://renfrewcenter.com/ or call 1- 800 RENFREW.

What is my therapist writing in session?!

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0400

It happens in a lot of therapy sessions: You're talking about your thoughts and feelings while the therapist listening to you scribbles down their own, private notes that you're not invited to see. Do you ever wonder what it is we're writing down?!

In this episode, I answer questions you all have submitted, including what we're writing, how we remember details about all of our client's stories, & what we do between sessions. I also talk a bit about what it means for us to conceptualize a client's case and what stages of change are. I hope this makes the process a little less mysterious and more approachable!

Keep the questions coming!

Links:

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Choose Yourself - Jenna Banks (author: I Love Me More)

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

CW: suicide, physical abuse, emotional abuse

Jenna Banks is an author, an entrepreneur, a speaker, a podcaster, and a self-love advocate. She is on a mission to help women embrace loving themselves more to find real happiness and attain their fullest potential without giving away their power

In a nutshell, we chat about:

Jenna's history of abuse
What self-love means
What makes it hard for people to love themselves
How to start on the path of self-love after many attachment wounds
How Jenna’s faith journey turned out and the role of forgiveness in her story
How to get to the place you can feel that's it is safe to embrace your true feelings
Jenna's community, being her self-support system during those dark times, and how her relationships are currently going
Stepping into your power

And so much more…!

Jenna’s Book: I Love Me More: How to Find Happiness and Success through Self-Love

Connect with Juliet:

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Expired Marriage - Colleen Odegaard (Pt. 2)

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, I talk with Colleen Odegaard for a follow-up episode. Colleen was on TV for years and is currently a life coach and the host of the Wake Up To Your Life podcast. As you know from our first conversation, Colleen is very open about anxiety, Tourettes syndrome, and body image concerns. Colleen approaches our conversation in this follow-up episode in a very vulnerable and honest way to discuss her divorce from her husband of 21 years and giving insight around her mental health during this journey.

We talk about the non-linear healing that is happening, distress tolerance skills, and the thing that brings Colleen the most shame. In this, we explore how to reframe this shame and shed that which doesn't belong to us. We hope you leave with helpful ideas about the difference between guilt and shame, new coping strategies, and the role others can play in our healing.

Links

Check out Colleen's podcast: Wake Up To Your Life

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Body Acceptance & Food Freedom - Sam Abbott (Registered Dietitian)

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0500

CW/TW: mass shooting

In this episode, I talk to Sam Abbott, a registered dietitian who specializes in working with clients who struggle with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Sam is passionate about helping individuals take a non-diet approach to nutrition and improving their symptoms without hating their bodies.

Sam shares about her own mental health journey and traumas she has endured, including losing her father at a young age, divorce, and witnessing the 2007 shooting at Virginia Tech.

In a nutshell, we chat about...

Sam’s clinical and personal perspective of PCOS.
The body image struggles that even eating disorder professionals can go through.
Taking a weight-inclusive approach to nutrition and health.
How Sam addressed the trauma she has suffered.
When to know that it's time to check back in with someone -- therapy as an adult.
Her take on ‘What I Eat in a Day' posts on Instagram
What encourages Sam to do what she is doing for her clients

and so much more…!

Links

Find Sam Abbott on Instagram, PCOS.Nutritionist

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Perfection or Rigidity? - Chayil Johnson (Chef/Educator)

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I speak to Chayil Johnson, a Chef de Cuisine and an educator at Community Matters Cafe in uptown Charlotte, NC. Born and raised in New Orleans, Chayil, one of 6 siblings, was great at baseball and music. But, as an over-thinker and perfectionist, he frequently suffered from anxiety. He began cooking at age 12, thanks to a program by Emeril Lagasse, and finally found solace.

In a nutshell, we chat about…

The biggest cultural difference between New Orleans and Charlotte and how the food culture inspired Chayil’s passion for cooking.
How Chayil was his own harshest critic.
The structure of discipline that Chayil practices and the impact of perfectionism/rigidity.
Chayil's relationship with his body.
What the Community Matters Cafe is, the services they offer, and what the cafe means to him.

… and so much more…!

Links

Check out Chef Chayil on Instagram

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness
Community Matters Cafe

Permission to Find Your Body’s Intelligence Through Writing (Shana Hartman/Embodied Writing Coach)

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Embodied writing seeks to reveal raw and tender connections from the most powerful places where writing comes from. It is a form of beautiful, heartfelt, and open-ended writing.

In this episode, I speak to Shana Hartman, an embodied writing coach and former English professor. She enjoys spotting unique messages shared by business owners and leaders and helping them express themselves through words. Shana is glad to have found writing as a place to express - and space to process - the things she could not say out loud.

In a nutshell, we speak about…

How Shana found an escape in embodied writing during her own mental health journey.
How journaling and embodied writing supports mental wellness: breathing in to breathe out later.
Specific writers/ books that have resonated with Shana at different points of her journey.
Why it is hard to find permission to release our experiences.
Books as escapism from a mental health perspective.
Recurring limiting beliefs from authors she has worked with.
How to find the permission to stop reading a book if it isn't working for you.

...and so much more!

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

9 of Swords & Anxiety (Mariah Oller - Tarot Reader)

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

CW: domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, spiritual abuse, suicidality, postpartum depression

Mariah Oller is a Cell Biologist turned Oracle that commonly answers questions regarding people’s life, love, and business ventures. She is the founder of Harvest and Moon and recently published her first Tarot Deck, The Tarot of Life.

Mariah joins me in deep vulnerability by soulfully sharing her story. We dive into her history of trauma and attachment wounds and there is so much to be learned about anger & forgiveness, birth order and parentification, religious deconstruction, perfectionism, avoidance, resiliency, and healing in this episode.

In this episode, we talk about:

What Tarot reading is (spicy psychology?!)
How Mariah got into Tarot reading.
Mariah’s trauma & crippling anxiety and how she dealt with it.
How Mariah parents her girls very intentionally based on how she was (not) parented.
How Mariah found safety and continues to give herself permission to rest for the first time in her life.
Some deep, deep truths and tenderness about motherhood.

… and so much more!

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.799.SAFE (7233)

Grief & Dating Yourself After Heartbreak - Aliya Saulson (Mental Health Therapist)

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

“Dating yourself” is an act of self-love and it’s beyond self-care. It's getting reacquainted with yourself in order to deeply connect not just with yourself, but also to be able to forge connections with others.

In this episode, I speak to Aliya Saulson, a therapist at Southeast Psych.

Aliya shares her raw and tender story of heartbreak, her role in the relationship, what avoidance teaches us, and how she showed up for herself through the healing process. She even shares with us one of her private journal entries! Tune in for tips on how you can date yourself this week and beyond

In a nutshell, we speak about:

How to identify ghosting & gaslighting behavior.
Why Aliya still stayed in a relationship that didn’t meet her needs.
What Aliya learned about herself through her heartbreak.
Why you don’t have to endure a heartbreak to learn the self-love message
How Aliya’s self-compassion helped with some of the shame and embarrassment she had to deal with.

… and so much more!

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles (Nesha Pai)

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Shame, regret, pressure, breakTHROUGHS, forgiveness, rising. This episode is such a good one!!! I speak to Nesha Pai of Charlotte, NC. Sitting in front of a male boss who refused to give her a raise because she had a gap in her resume from being a stay-at-home mom for six years, she decided to take a leap of faith (and her largest client) and strike out on her own.

She started Pai CPA, an accounting firm serving small and medium-sized businesses, in 2011. And she promised herself to hire and mentor stay-at-home moms and other women trying to re-enter the business world. Her book, “Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles,” details her journey of overcoming racism, sexism, and other trials and tribulations as a first-generation Indian American business owner.

In this episode, we talk about:

The confusion around identity that Pai went through during her adolescence.
How the anger she carried throughout her life manifested in her day to day.
The turning point at which Pai found the permission to heal.
The essence of Pai's message to the world.
What self-care means to Pai, and how she makes that happen.
How to know it's time to go to therapy.

... and so much more!

Instagram: @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Coming Out - Mia Atkins (part 2!)

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Finding our inner truths and letting go of other people's expectations is really hard to do. TV host, Mia Atkins, joins us again on the show and shares about major changes that have happened in her life since our first conversation several months ago.

Having struggled with pretty severe anxiety and depression, Mia says it took her a while to truly pinpoint why. Now that she’s gone through such a massive change in who she is, how she identifies, and how she’s living her life, she feels the most at peace she ever has. Tune in to learn from Mia's experience in ending her engagement to a man and coming out as lesbian. There's something in it for all of us around finding permission to show up as our true selves.

Instagram: @yepigototherapy
Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness
PFLAG

Therapists Crying in Therapy?!

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 21:00:00 -0500

Welcome to season 2 of the show! We're excited to be back! This season will consist of one-off therapist banter episodes + continued conversations with people you (want to) know.

How do you feel and what do you think when other people cry? What about with your own tears? In this episode, I help us explore what we've learned about tears and what the "point" of crying even is.

I also discuss reasons a therapist might cry in session with a client and how that might feel for the client (weird?! relatable?!). What does it mean for a therapist to have countertransference or transference in session and how do we therapists show up as humans with healthy boundaries? Therapy is an art. Listen to learn more!

Links:

@yepigototherapy

Eating Disorders & Persistence - Jillian Lampert

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

CW: eating disorders

Dr. Jillian Lampert is a Registered Dietitian, a Professor, and the Chief Strategy Officer at The Emily Program, a treatment program for those struggling with eating disorders. Dr. Lampert is also the Co-founder and President of the Residential Eating Disorders Consortium and the Treasurer of the Eating Disorders Coalition. She is the author of numerous book chapters and articles addressing nutritional treatment of body image, eating disorders, sports participation, adolescent health, and disordered eating and she regularly speaks regionally and nationally on numerous eating disorder-related topics.

Jillian shares about her own journey with an eating disorder and her passion for educating others about eating disorders. s

Tune in to learn more about:

How increased anxiety and isolation contribute to eating disorders.
How and why Jillian got interested in her field.
How to create a healthy relationship with food.
The swing on social media to the body positivity movement.
Myths about eating disorders.

… and so much more!

Links:
yepigototherapy
https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/

COVID Long-Haulers & Mental Health (Guest: Elle Walsh/Chalk Artist)

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

I am joined by Elle Walsh, a chalk artist and long-time creative. Elle is on a mission to inspire and educate through what she creates as she scours nature, the news, and history for inspiration for her art.

We talk about how COVID affected Elle and her family specific to symptoms, why she’s a self-diagnosed long hauler, and how it all impacts her mental health.

We highlight the need to practice acceptance and self-care and the importance of setting boundaries and seeing losses of relationships during this pandemic through the lens of grief.

Links:
IG: @yepigototherapy and @cltchalkart

What's Happened To You? - Vernisha Crawford (trauma informed CEO)

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Vernisha Crawford is an entrepreneur who has overcome many obstacles. She has turned every challenge into an opportunity. Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, a Master’s Degree in Leadership, and currently pursuing her PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Vernisha has found passion in helping others navigate life. Through her organization, Bringing You Excellence (BYE), Vernisha specializes in educating the community on systems change, trauma, mental health, resilience, and entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Vernisha and I talk about:

The mindset shift that happens when one is trauma-informed.

The fundamentals of trauma.

How Vernisha uses different identities to determine how she is going to help people.

Why setting boundaries is important.

Adapting to changes without sabotaging other parts of yourself.

Vernisha’s huge turning point.

The best part of self-care and how to incorporate it into your day-to-day.

The power of affirmations on someone that has experienced trauma.

… and so much more!

Therapy highlight: What are affirmations and do they really work?

Links:

Check out BYE: https://www.byellc.org/

Instagram: yepigototherapy and vernishaceo

Reading is Freedom - Abbigail Glen (entrepreneur/bookstore owner)

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Abbigail Glen’s plan was to start saving to open her own bookstore once she got out of debt. She resigned from her job as an HR professional to do just that, though it looked different than she imagined! We talk about how her pop-up bookstore came to be and what it has been like to be flexible in entrepreneurship. Abbi shares with us how her business fits in the context of her mental health journey.

We explore how reading and writing can be mental escapes and contribute to one's emotional wellness. Not only is the bookstore on a quest to provide its supporters with great books; but also create amazing lifestyle products made exclusively with readers, writers, and dreamers in mind. These are all great for coping with anxiety and depression!

Therapy highlight: What does happiness really mean? How do we find fulfillment in emotional wellness, psychological flexibility, and social and emotional skills?

Links:

https://shelvesbookstore.com
https://suncounselingandwellness.com
Instagram: yepigototherapy and shelvesbookstore

Still We Rise

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

TW: sexual assault/rape

Today’s episode is a special one. First, because there is no guest and second, because it’s unscripted! Tune in to listen to my own story of trauma, the story behind my new tattoo, and about my personal relationship with Maya Angelou.

I hope this episode inspires you and reminds you that there is no shame in seeking help or going to therapy. I hope that you will reach out for support in regards to your big T and your little t traumas and everything in between...because you're not alone.

Links:

https://suncounselingandwellness.com

Instagram: yepigototherapy

Bursts of JOY! - Lisa Dimino White (author/The Joy Seeker)

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

People are pretty darn amazing and too often don’t recognize their own greatness. Lisa Dimino White is on a mission to change that. With over 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, and event management, Lisa now focuses on her passion — inspiring others to actively seek out and create more joy for themselves, their communities, and all of humankind. She does this through her speaking engagements, coaching programs, her recently released book Bursting with Happiness, and Bursting with Happiness: The Podcast.

Also known as The Joy Seeker, @lisadiminowhite joins us on the show to speak about accessing joy and how to meet ourselves right where we are when struggles make it difficult . She also highlights how introducing small bursts of joy into your life can help you to overcome potentially life-limiting and crippling fear. No matter what challenges you're faced with, there's always joy to be found - if you know where to look.

Therapy highlight: What is OCD? How not to let extreme cycles of obsessions and compulsions consume one's way of living or get in the way of one's values

Links:

Sun Counseling and Wellness

https://thejoyseeker.com

Instagram: yepigototherapy and lisadiminowhite

Standing Strong & Knowing the Truth - Rachel Vindman (activist, wife of Ret. Lt. Col. Alex Vindman)

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400

CW: loss of a child

Rachel Vindman has become a political activist. She co-hosts The Suburban Women Problem podcast by Red Wine and Blue. Oh, and her husband, Ret. Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman, is the one who testified at Trump’s first impeachment hearing about what he heard in the call with the Ukrainian President. Rachel shares how her husband’s actions changed his career path and continues to cause scrutiny in their lives.

Rachel talks with us about the good, the bad, and the surprisingly wonderful things that happen with this kind of spotlight. We learn more - beyond the sensationalized facts - about what it truly FELT like to endure this. She talks about how deep grief and loss provides perspective and continues to set the tone for how she lives each day.

She credits the American people for propelling her willingness to show up just as she is, particularly over the last couple years. It’s a testament to staying true to one’s values and convictions no matter the cost or who you’re up against. You’ll be inspired by her honesty, fortitude, and positivity.

Therapy highlight: What is a trauma response? What to do when an emotional expression is incongruent from the actual feeling.

Links:

Sun Counseling and Wellness

Instagram: yepigototherapy

The Suburban Women Problem

Here, RIght Matters

Feeling the Feels - Lauren Martin (Writer/Author)

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Lauren Martin is the writer behind the popular Instagram account, Words of Women, which is dedicated to the growth and development of women. She also wrote a book called The Book of Moods in which she embraces vulnerability and provides observations into her own path to emotional wellness.

We talk about finding the right therapist, the validity of feelings, and finding ways to deal with changing moods. We also talk about yearning for more honesty around the loss of female friendships and the power of putting ourselves out there even if it brings discomfort.

Therapy highlight: Understanding emotions as data and more discussion on the grief of friendship loss.

Links:
Instagram: yepigototherapy and whoyoucallincrazypodcast and words_of_women
Sun Counseling and Wellness
Words of Women

Asking Questions, Gaining Clarity- Dr. Jasmine Clark (Scientist/Lecturer/State Representative)

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jasmine Clark is an epidemiologist, Lecturer of Microbiology and Human A&P at Emory University School of Nursing and she's the Representative of the GA State House of Representatives in House District 108. She also co-hosts The Suburban Women Problem podcast by Red Wine & Blue. She's truly leaving her mark on the world!!!

We talk about her learning to not internalize things and act like everything is okay as she leaned in to gaining clarity and owning the struggle! Dr. Clark uses one of my favorite analogies I've ever heard for her WHY behind starting therapy. We talk about the intersections of race & gender and the value of having a scientist as part of policy making, being okay with questioning things, and continually making space to care for herself amidst grief, incongruence, and being so busy.

Crazy question time includes our shared love for karaoke and Maya Angelou!

Therapy highlight: using busy-ness as a coping strategy and avoidance and encouragement for learning how to just BE.

On The Grind - Michelle Boudin (News Reporter)

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

I'm so appreciative of Michelle’s candidness and insight into her own mental health and specifically that of a journalist, particularly over the past two years. There might’ve been a few double entendres that contributed to our lovely and lively discussion around how someone who literally cannot turn off social media or the news (because it’s her JOB!) cares for themselves in a pandemic.

There are some great reminders for us all that sometimes it’s okay to not be okay and to just be “hanging in” or seek some escapism.

And we most definitely do not talk about dating in a pandemic 😉

This episode originally aired as an IGTVLive on March 16, 2021.

Therapy highlight: why do we need rest? what are some tips for better sleep and good sleep hygiene?

Links:
Instagram: yepigototherapy and whoyoucallincrazypodcast
Sun Counseling and Wellness
WCNC Michelle Boudin

Putting It All Back Together- Sam Diminich (Chef, Sobriety Advocate)

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

CW: substance use, addiction

Sam has worked in many restaurants, has beaten Bobby Flay, now owns a meal delivery business, and he is the personal chef for the Carolina Panthers' running back, Christian McCaffrey. Whew! Along with his passion for cooking, he is also very open about substance use.

Sam talks about not being able to outrun his addiction until he learned to surrender. We'll learn what he means by each time he went to rehab he was "humbled, but without humility." He talks about what he saw on the streets and being faced with life or death decisions.

Therapy highlight: What does it mean to surrender and let go? Does it mean giving up? How do I do this?

Links:
Instagram: yepigototherapy and whoyoucallincrazypodcast and chefsamdiminich
Sun Counseling and Wellness
Your Farms Your Table

Showing Up & Living A Life You Love: Brittney Bogues (Entrepreneur/Publicist)

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

CW: domestic violence

Brittney tells us her story about being a survivor of domestic violence and shares what it was like when she decided to come forward with her story. We also talk entrepreneurship and learning from failure. Her journey to healing has also included working through issues with body image and self-esteem.

And of course we talk about being the daughter of former NBA player, Muggsy Bogues, and how being recognized impacts mental health and self worth.

Therapy highlight: I discuss types of abuse, warning signs, and how to help someone who might be a victim.

Links:
Instagram: @yepigototherapy and @whoyoucallincrazypodcast
Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness
Bogues Group
Domestic Violence Support

Chicken Sh*t Casserole & Suspending Your Ego - Jamie Lynch (Executive Chef, Chef Partner, Top Chef Alum)

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

CW: substance abuse, overdose

Don't you want to know how Chef Jamie Lynch got started in the industry (even when he was a picky eater as a kid!) and how he handled the pressure of being on Top Chef?! He gives us lots of insight into this and thoughts on cooking being tied to self worth.

Jamie talks with us about being an angsty youth, not learning to communicate about his feelings, and toxic masculinity (in a household of 3 boys)! We talk about his strained relationship with his mom until recent years. You'll be inspired by his openness about the beauty of having honest dialogue as an adult to help with context and healing.

Crazy question time includes revealing the meanings behind some of his tattoos and sharing what restaurant he'd love to go and with whom!

Therapy highlight: anger as primary/secondary emotion, when a pattern of anger shows up particularly for a kid, & how to increase our emotional intelligence.

Links:
Sun Counseling and Wellness
Instagram: yepigototherapy and whoyoucallincrazypodcast
Chef Jamie Lynch
5 Street Group

Taking Up Space and Trusting Your Inner Wisdom - Brooklyn Decker (actress + model)

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Juliet and Brooklyn talk about the ongoing journey around mental health and how to not feel like we're failing at self-care. We explore how to know who offers you the space to expand in this world and how to find your people! Brooklyn talks about what it's like to be a part of the fashion industry and how she found her voice. We also explore body image and self image.

And then we may or may not geek out over our shared unapologetic adoration for Dave Matthews Band.

Therapy highlight: I discuss more about how to talk to ourselves and our children about body image. Also, I talk about how to connect to your inner wisdom.

Links:

Instagram: @yepigototherapy and @whoyoucallincrazypodcast
Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness
Follow Brooklyn: @brooklyndecker

Sponsors:

Blooming Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
Eating Recovery Cente
Pathlight

Code-Switching and Playing To Your Audience - Bradley Gibson (Broadway & TV Actor, Singer/Songwriter)

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Bradley and Juliet talk about the leap for him from their small North Carolina hometown to New York City as a professional actor. We talk about his being a Black and Queer boy raised in the Mormon faith and the journey to find his place.

Bradley opens up about how he is now letting himself truly be seen as we talk about how to get out of our own way and recognize when things are so much bigger than us.

From waffle fries in the South to being Simba on The Lion King, there is so much good dialogue in this episode. Grateful for Bradley's openness about therapy, coping, and focusing on mental wellness.

Therapy highlight: I talk about what code-switching is and the toll it takes on people of color.

Instagram: @yepigototherapy and @whoyoucallincrazypodcast
Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness
Follow Bradley: @bradgibson13

The Real We Are - Molly Grantham (Media Journalist)

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Molly has been a media journalist and behind the news desk for a long time. We talk about how anchors and journalists have navigated the past several years in particular and the impact it has had on mental health.

Molly talks about how aging is a gift and shares how she's still exploring her grief journey after losing both of her parents to cancer.

We also discuss the wild story her family endured as her baby was the youngest person diagnosed with COVID in Mecklenburg County...what a journey.

Therapy highlight: I dive into more specifics around grief, differentiating between normal and complicated grief, and learning how to carry it differently.

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast and @yepigototherapy

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Molly's Website: https://www.mollygrantham.com

Living Outside Society's Boxes - Julie Lythcott-Haims (NYT Bestselling Author/Memoirist/Parenting Expert)

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Julie and I talk about her "why" behind her pull to serve and root for all humans. We talk about intersections of race, sexuality, and her passion around humans relating to one another. She talks candidly about the bully of internalized oppression that she was able to replace with self-love and the ability to truly see herself in her Blackness. Julie shares her experience with therapy and coaching and the benefit it continues to have in her own life.

We also learn more about Julie's sweet love story with her husband as she shares quite possibly the sweetest sentiment said to a partner ever!

And, I ask Julie what she'd tell her younger parenting self.

Therapy highlight is folded into the end of our conversation around "repatterning" and apologizing!

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Julie's site: https://www.julielythcotthaims.com

Julie's books: https://www.julielythcotthaims.com/your-turn

Communicate With Your Clothing and Own Your Personal Style - Whitley Adkins (Fashion & Stylist Editor)

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Whitley, of The Queen City Style, shares about insecurities that occur amidst all of the curated images and fancy clothes! We talk about the art of styling clothes and encouraging people to meet themselves where they are. This matters because our self-image is constantly shifting and we tend to be our own worst critics!

Therapy highlight: self-expression

Episode originally aired 12/8/2020

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Whitley: http://whitleyadkins.com/

Sugar, Butter, Therapy and Walking Toward Your Dream - Desi Oakley (Broadway actress, Singer-Songwriter)

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Desi, who has played several roles on Broadway and in National Tours (including Jenna in Waitress and Roxie Hart in Chicago), talks about how she found incredible growth while her industry was shut down during the pandemic.

She opens up about her father's suicide when she was 19 and how the lines have sometimes been blurred for her between performance and making choices that serve the self she has come to love.

I so appreciate our dialogue about her shifting relationship with anxiety and learning to *dismantle urgency.* We share many practical tips for increasing mindfulness and mind/body awareness! I also ask her what role as an actress has been the most emotional and we are all better for hearing her courageous response.

Therapy Highlight: How to discern our personal values and allow them to guide us!

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Follow Desi Oakley on Instagram: @desioakley

Waitress the Musical: https://waitressthemusical.com

Values Clarification: https://zonbx58qza-flywheel.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/LYSp11.jpg

Suicide Helpline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Black Boy Joy - Charlitta Hatch (author & activist)

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Charlitta Hatch founded the Me 3 Project which aims to change the narrative of young black boys in America through positive images, expressive stories, and deliberate advocacy. Her books include Black Boy Joy which she decided to write when she had her son and recognized how media is severely lacking representation.

Charlitta opens up about her own struggles with anxiety, postpartum anxiety, seeking out therapy, & prioritizing self. She discusses the narrative we tend to have in our society about black mothers and black sons and the work she’s doing (and that we can ALL do) to rewrite that.

Therapy highlight: defining anxiety and panic attacks; practical skills for coping with panic attacks .

Originally aired January 5, 2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Me3Project: https://www.me3project.com

Rock Bottom and The Gift of Sobriety - A Guest's Personal Account + Keva Walton (CEO of the Mecklenburg Co. ABC Board) and Valerie Kopetzky (CEO of Anuvia Prevention & Recovery Center)

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

This is a unique episode during which a guest shares her personal story around alcohol use and her journey into recovery and sobriety. I then speak with two experts in the substance use and addiction arena. They talk with us about the rise of alcohol use, what makes it so hard to make that first call for help, and how to support someone who might be struggling.

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

SAMHSA: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

AA: https://www.aa.org

Anuvia: www.anuvia.org

Meck ABC: https://www.meckabc.com

Rain Don't Change the Sun - Ian Holljes (Songwriter & Band Member of Delta Rae)

Tue, 25 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Ian gets candid and talks about what it's like to work and make music with his two siblings. We talk about depression and how he's used therapy in his life.

He shares great insights into the definition of success and into the vulnerability of songwriting and how authenticity remains at the core of what he does on and off the stage.

Trigger warning: some discussion of suicide.

Therapy highlight: I share practical techniques you can learn to unhook from unhelpful thoughts

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Delta Rae: https://www.deltarae.com

Unlocking Our Creative Energy - Matt Olin (Creativity Consultant)

Tue, 18 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Matt is a speaker, writer, and creativity consultant who played the keys in his band that opened for REO Speedwagon and began his career producing award-winning professional theater on Broadway.

He brings this passion and energy to our discussion around the creative brain and *spoiler alert* how we can ALL tap into our creativity (it's true- embrace it!). We also talk about unlearning toxic masculinity and the beauty of being vulnerable.

Therapy highlight: defining vulnerability (and gender stereotypes!) and an encouragement to do something creative this week!

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Find Matt here: https://mattolincreative.com/about

Charlotte is Creative: https://charlotteiscreative.com/

Brene Brown's Vulnerability Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability

Therapy is Cool! - Mia Atkins (TV Host)

Tue, 11 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Oh, this is anxiety?! TV Lifestyle reporter and host, Mia Atkins, talks about learning to name this in her own life. She discusses having multiple turning points because she's intentional about which version of herself shows up.

She also shares about her relationship with her fiancé, Olympic gymnast Sam Mikulak, and how they navigate different coping and communication styles to stay connected, especially while long-distance.

Therapy highlight: the impact of both positive and negative stress and the benefits of guided imagery.

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Follow Mia on Instagram @miaatiknstv

Acting While on Live TV - Colleen Odegaard (Life Coach, Former TV Host)

Thu, 06 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

I know y'all think those TV personalities with their polished makeup and their cute outfits are just out there living their best lives! Maybe so, maybe not. Colleen quit her TV career of several decades to become a certified life coach and media coach and she is rocking it, y'all!

It is so refreshing to chat with her in this episode about what harmful coping strategies she's used in her life to deal with anxiety and Tourette's syndrome and what our wounded younger selves might need to hear as we continue to step into our authenticity. We also hope we help you hear how your mental health struggles can actually be a superpower!

Episode originally aired 2/2/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Colleen's podcast and media coaching: https://wakeuptoyourlife.net

Our Hearts Long for Meaning - Katherine Kerr (Minister)

Tue, 04 May 2021 10:00:00 -0400

A minister joins Juliet to discuss, very candidly, the intersection of faith and mental health. Katherine acknowledges the distrust in the church that some people with mental illness experience.

She shares her own journey with depression, the nuances of being a female minister, and answers questions about spirituality vs. religion. People with no faith or of different faiths should find this conversation interesting and intriguing.

Therapy highlight: what depression does/doesn't look like

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Turning Things to Gold - Melissa Herriott (Artist + Designer)

Mon, 03 May 2021 19:00:00 -0400

Who gets a blister from rage vacuuming? Your girl Melissa does if she's not paying attention to her warning signs of when the burnout is coming! We dive deep into feeling like an imposter and not letting compliments go to waste because there is enough sunshine.

She shares her 'why' behind several of her art collections (GIRL POWER) and how she gives herself permission by showing up wherever she finds joy, whether it's painting, designing, or hyping a friend.

Therapy highlight: imposter syndrome and personal values

Episode originally aired 2/9/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Melissa's art: https://www.mherriottart.com

Cheers to the Nerds - Josh Villapando (Wine Shop Owner)

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 18:00:00 -0400

Do you think all wine people are snobs? No, they can also be lovable nerds! Josh has been in the food and wine industry for basically forever and talks with us about what it was like being a small business owner in the pandemic, claiming our strengths, and Juliet also gives you a challenge for the next time you receive a compliment. It might make you uncomfortable!

Episode originally aired 12/15/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Assorted Table Wine Shoppe: https://assortedtablewine.com

Find Your Piece of Peace - Ohavia Phillips (Influencer)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0400

PULL UP as my girl Ohavia Phillips will tell you!! Pull up to hear us chat about her journey through trauma as a child of domestic violence.

She owns the healing that continues for her as she chooses to find her peace. The energy is contagious in this one, ya'll, and you'll finish the episode wanting to love on your people!!

Therapy highlight: survivors guilt and grief

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Ohavia's show: www.youtube.com/TheOhShow

Awareness of the Heart - Heather Cole (Artist)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0400

Ever heard the term "high functioning anxiety?" Ever said the rote "I'm fine" when you didn't really mean it? Hey, us too.

Listen to my conversation with Heather of Heather Opal Art as we talk about her moment of waking up to her precious life and the conscious daily decision to care for herself by...wearing socks?

Therapy highlight: anxiety and the physical somatization of emotions

Episode originally aired on 4/13/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Heather: https://www.heatheropal.com

Self-Acceptance - Rosie Molinary (Author + Educator)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0400

She's an author, educator, and self-care expert and you will want to soak up all of her wisdom! Join me and Rosie as we talk about her learning much of this the hard way...

...through her experience of reaching burnout. The good news is that she found her own self worth and she's on a mission to help you find your own beautiful YOU, too!

Therapy highlight: coping skills and self care

Episode originally aired 3/30/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Rosie: http://rosiemolinary.com

Keeping it Real On and Off the Field - Eugene Robinson (TV Host + Former NFL player)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0400

16 seasons in the NFL, 1 Super Bowl ring, a successful broadcasting career as a color analyst and TV host and guess what...still a human! Hear my conversation with Eugene Robinson as he discusses the journey to forgiveness he had to take due to childhood trauma.

He also shares a story about a memorable play with Bo Jackson that is cringy to hear, but was a turning point for him personally! It will hype you up and make you recognize your own resilience!

Episode originally aired 3/2/2021

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Eugene on Charlotte Today

Resources: National Association for Children of Addiction

Seat at the Table - Alyssa Wilen (Chef)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 22:00:00 -0400

Are you curious about how top chefs navigate the pressures of a successful kitchen? Have you heard of the stereotype around restaurant workers using unhealthy coping skills? Have you ever felt lonely amidst a crowd?

Join me and Chef Alyssa Wilen as we talk about all of this and the skills related to assertiveness, confidence, and acting how we want to feel.

Episode originally aired 12/1/2020

More Information and Resources:

Instagram: @whoyoucallincrazypodcast

Website: Sun Counseling and Wellness

Check out Chef Alyssa's Kitchen: https://chefalyssaskitchen.com