Finding Your Way Through Therapy

Unearth the profound wisdom as we reconvene with the Mental Men, an insightful group who've made their mark on our show. The conversation between Pat Rice, Robert Cherney, Andrew Kang, and Dennis Sweeney is a treasure chest, brimming with the rich experiences of seasoned therapists who share their pearls of wisdom about the importance of mentorship in shaping the future of therapy. We delve into the differences in practices between various generations of therapists, peeling back the layers to reveal how these disparities can influence the future of therapeutic teaching and practice.

Journey with us as we dissect the significance of community support and mutual learning in our quest to evolve as therapists. Feel firsthand the power of peer groups, consultations, and supervision groups, as they nurture openness and foster learning. Tune in to hear our personal stories about our learning journeys and the ways we've shared knowledge with our peers, students, and how kindness, patience, and gratitude in therapy can weave together to form a strong therapeutic alliance.

We close by examining the importance of humility, continuous learning, and embracing imperfection in our profession. Be empowered by insights on how making peace with our mistakes can open doors to personal and professional growth. Also, tune in to hear about the power of self-control, the art of letting go, and being authentic in therapy. Our esteemed guests elaborate on how self-disclosure can pave the way for deeper and more genuine relationships with patients. Listen in to this engaging, thought-provoking episode and gain a fresh perspective on therapy from seasoned professionals in the field. Consider this an open invitation to enter the minds of the Mental Men, and partake in a nourishing feast of knowledge and insights.

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Today, we join forces with Jenny Helms, an accomplished therapist and owner of Kansas' largest mental health private  practice, to traverse the labyrinth of mental health and therapy. In an enthralling conversation, Jenny lays bare her awe-inspiring journey, her notable work in mental health, and her undying resolve to heal trauma and nurture healthier relationships. Connect with us as we both recount our shared experiences of relocating from our original homes and laying down roots in new communities.

Throughout our engaging conversation, we unpack the importance of therapy, shattering the common misconceptions and highlighting the significance of establishing a secure connection with your therapist. Join us as we explore the spectrum of therapy options, emphasizing the pivotal role of feeling secure and connected with your therapist. We also take a deep look at the complexities of trauma healing and the essential role of active participation in your therapy voyage.

In an insightful discussion, we probe into the effect of various factors such as diet, environment, and physical activity on mental health. We also draw a clear line between therapy and coaching, demonstrating the nuances that distinguish the two. As we wrap up, Jenny offers a sneak peek into her promising new virtual coaching group and an upcoming project. Tag along with us in this enriching conversation as we unearth valuable insights about mental health and treatment. Tune in, learn, laugh, and let's unravel the world of mental health together.

You can go here for her website and her new group coaching here.

Her TikTok can be found here.

Her Instagram is found here.

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What would you do if you were forced to confront a dark chapter from your past after 15 years? Join us as Lynn Kee, a survivor and embodiment of resilience, opens up about her painful journey towards recovery from childhood sexual abuse and addiction. Lynn dives deep into the legal repercussions she navigated, illustrating how the justice system can, unfortunately, contribute to secondary trauma for survivors. 

Lynn's narrative is a powerful testament to survival and courage. She recounts the chilling moment she encountered her offender, despite having a lifetime stay away order, shedding light on the emotional turmoil and legal complexities involved in such situations. But there's more. Lynn also discusses her struggle with addiction and how navigating the healthcare system became a tumultuous journey layered with additional challenges. She underscores the crucial role of trauma-informed care and the urgent need for specialty case management services for those dealing with similar circumstances. 

Finally, we delve into a heartening discussion about AJ's Way, a beacon of hope in the form of a non-profit organization being set up in remembrance of Lynn's sister, Amanda Hernandez. This initiative aims to support others embarking on their recovery journey. This episode is a riveting collision of trauma, addiction, and legal implications, shining a light on the often overlooked perspectives of survivors. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn, empathize, and grow alongside Lynn's inspiring story.

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden struggles that first responders face on a daily basis? We sit down with Keith Hanks, a retired firefighter EMT from Massachusetts, Scot Ruggles, a former football coach and actor, Corey Moss, the co-director and producer of the documentary 'First Responders in Crisis'.  We delve into their experiences, shedding light on the mental health struggles they contend with, and how they find resilience amidst the challenges. We also pay homage to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line.

On this journey, we unpack the importance of mental wellbeing in the lives of those who are often seen as invincible. Keith, Scot, and Corey share their personal journeys with mental health, discussing various therapy modalities and coping strategies they have found beneficial. We take a moment to emphasize the need for regular mental health checkups, in similar fashion to annual physicals. We also discuss the documentary 'First Responders in Crisis', a critical documentary that brings the real, raw, and vulnerable experiences of these brave individuals to the forefront.

In addressing the elephant in the room, we tackle the stigma of mental health, especially in the first responder community. We explore the "tough guy" mentality and its impact on mental health, with insights drawn from Gabor Maté's idea of doing certain jobs to "repair our past".

So, tune in, engage, and let's spark a discussion on the critical issue of mental health among first responders. We believe in the power of shared stories and experiences to drive change and break stigmas. Let this podcast episode be a stepping stone in that journey.

"First Responders In Crisis" will be released October 3rd, 2023 and the trailer is available here. 

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 What if understanding the unspoken language of therapy could revolutionize your healing process? In this reverse episode,  your guides, Lisa Mustard, from the podcast "The Therapy Show" , and I take you on a fascinating journey through the world of therapy. Our candid conversations aim to demystify the intricacies of therapy, from recognizing your gut instinct when choosing a therapist to the potent impact of unconditional positive regard in a therapeutic relationship. We dissect how discomfort can be an essential part of growth and how shame can facilitate vital dialogues with your therapist.

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process, and we delve into the importance of a therapist who can tailor their approach to your unique needs. We'll also debunk the myth of quick fixes and emphasize the value of consistent, patient work in therapy. Together, we explore the transformational power of the therapeutic relationship and the profound personal growth that can come from being truly seen and heard by a therapist. We also discuss the intriguing dynamic of therapist-client relationships and how they can offer mutual benefit.

As an added bonus, we talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with good friendships and nurturing therapeutic relationships for personal growth. We also explore the Atomic Habits approach of tracking accomplishments, providing you with actionable insights to apply in your own life. We'll also introduce you to a 30-day journal, Empower Your Mind, designed to guide you on your journey to mental clarity. Finally, I share some exciting news about an upcoming documentary on first responders in crisis situations, shedding light on their crucial role. Join us for this transformative episode, as we illuminate the path to emotional healing and personal growth. You won't want to miss it!

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Are you ready to embark on a journey of wisdom, growth and self-discovery? This episode, we're joined by the ‘mental men’ - Pat Rice, Dr. Robert Cherney, Dennis Sweeney, and Andrew Kang - four inspiring mentors who share their experiences and insights as psychotherapists. We converse about their diverse career trajectories and their perspectives on the therapy process, especially in treating those in recovery and de-stigmatizing mental health care. Their unique stories and experiences provide a rich tapestry of insight, inspiring us to look at mental health and healing in a new light.

We explore how mentorship plays a critical role in therapy, as our mentors guide us, inspire us and help us understand ourselves better. We share personal stories - from Steve's experience with Bob and Dennis to Pat's metaphorical lesson from his last therapist. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and learning to ask the right questions. We also explore the benefits of brain-based interventions and how they have the potential to revolutionize therapy.

In the final part of our conversation, we delve into the essence of learning, healing, and community in therapy. We discuss the evolution of EMDR over the years, the effectiveness of virtual EMDR, and the importance of finding mentors and peers who understand the unique experience of doing therapy. We wrap up our conversation by expressing our gratitude to the mental men for sharing their wisdom and invite you to join us for the next season of the podcast. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the therapeutic journey, the importance of mentorship, and the value of community in healing and growth.

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You won't want to miss our eye-opening chat with Maegan Visconti, the former dancer who danced her way into the world of dance movement therapy. Let her inspiring journey move you as she leaps fearlessly into the trials and triumphs of launching her own private practice - all while juggling wedding planning and house hunting. Find out how she copes with stress and keeps her life in balance, turning to therapy as much-needed maintenance during even the most joyful life changes.

Ever wondered about the inside workings of a private therapy practice? Maegan busts some myths and shares a raw, real look at the benefits and hurdles that come with the territory. You'll hear all about the crucial role of networking, boundaries setting, and how to pick the right clients. She also takes us behind the scenes of her unique approach to therapy, revealing how body language and micro-expressions help her understand her clients better.

Maegan’s journey is not just about dance or therapy, but a constant evolution, a testament to personal and professional growth. As she talks about the constant process of reinventing oneself and the importance of setting goals, you'll be inspired to embrace your own challenges and use them as motivation. Her transition from dancer to therapist is a valuable lesson on career reflections and choice considerations that are often overlooked. And just when you think it can't get any more interesting, she leaves you hanging with a teaser about her favorite episode. Join us for this invigorating conversation, and let's dance through therapy with Maegan Visconti.

You can reach Maegan here.

You can find American Dance Therapy here.

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Ever felt the grip of overwhelming stress after a traumatic event? On today's episode, your host Steve Bisson walks you through his own personal journey of healing from a distressing flight experience, offering a raw and authentic view into his emotional world post-incident. Tune in as Steve discusses his six-month progress, shedding light on his coping mechanisms, therapy techniques, and the importance of timely intervention to prevent a drift into post-traumatic stress disorder.

On the second leg of our conversation, we navigate the complex waters of acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorders, dissecting their unique characteristics, impacts, and durations. With a mix of personal stories and professional insights, Steve helps unravel these mental health conditions, making this episode a must-listen if you've ever been curious about the differences and similarities. Additionally, we touch upon his family's journey post-incident, offering a broader perspective on the impact of trauma on one's immediate social circle. Embark on this enlightening journey with us as we explore how professional help can significantly alter the course of recovery after traumatic events.

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Picture this: You're a first responder, racing against the clock to save lives, and the stress, trauma, and emotional toll are building up. How do you cope? This episode features a frank, heart-to-heart discussion with Jay Ball, a sergeant with the Framingham Police Department, and Brian Harkins, a firefighter in Stoughton, Massachusetts, who bravely open up about the mental health challenges faced by first responders.

Together, we blow the whistle on the stigma surrounding mental health and the importance of peer support. As we navigate through their personal experiences, we offer insights on how to change the culture within departments, the significance of leadership, and the power of informal debriefing. Brian, drawing from his own journey, offers an inside look at how he faced his struggles and now assists others in doing the same. 

Finally, we address the often overlooked aspect of maintaining a life outside of work and the role of loved ones in supporting a first responder's mental health. From exploring non-traditional therapy options to breaking down stigmas, we aim to empower our invaluable first responders to seek help when needed. So join us, as we stand with our heroes, addressing critical issues and exploring ways to improve mental health support for those who dedicate their lives to public safety.

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Who says learning can't be made insightful, gripping, and transformative? That's what we aim to embody in every episode, and this particular conversation with Gina Moffa, a New York-based grief and trauma-informed therapist, is no exception. Gina's journey, evolving from a keen interest in international relations and human behavior to becoming a grief therapy specialist, is as fascinating as it is inspiring. She explains the intertwined nature of trauma and grief work, and how therapy can become our mirror, revealing more about ourselves, our misconceptions, and our potential for growth.

Gina's recent venture, a book about grief therapy called "Moving on Doesn’t Mean Letting Go", is creating waves in the mental health world. She aims to provide a resource that acts as a frontline of therapy and grief-informed treatment, granting people a sense of relief and control. She shares her desire to bridge the access gap to grief therapy for people who may be unable to avail it due to financial or geographical constraints. In an era still grappling with a post-pandemic grief, her insights are a timely, much-needed lifeline.

In the latter part of our discussion, Gina demystifies the complexity of grief, its various forms, and the critical role our brain and nervous system play in processing losses. She underscores the need for a safe space in therapy sessions, emphasizing the importance of client comfort and control. Wrapping up on a positive note, Gina emphasizes the power of gratitude and community-building in facilitating healing and growth. If you've ever wondered about the layers of grief and the path to healing, our conversation with Gina Moffa is a must-listen. You're guaranteed to walk away feeling enlightened and enriched.

Get Gina's book on Amazon,  Bookshop,  B&N, BAM,  and other major retailers.

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Does the rhythm of our emotions dance to the tune of our body movements? Could dance be the language that helps you connect to your deepest emotions? Meet our fabulous guest Maegan Garvey, a seasoned mental health counselor and a board-certified dance movement therapist, who shares her remarkable journey in the unique field combining dance and therapy. From the drama of dance studios to the intricacies of therapy, Maegan enthralls us with her passion for dance and its therapeutic merits.

Maegan offers pearls of wisdom on the allure of private practice for new therapists, focusing on the freedom it provides in choosing clients and operating on a flexible schedule. She further emphasizes the significance of networking and establishing a nurturing network of like-minded colleagues. Our conversation ventures into the captivating world of movement therapy as an assessment tool, delving into how it aids in fostering a connection with clients and comprehending their emotional state.

Towards the end of our conversation, Maegan candidly discusses the challenges she faced in becoming a business owner and the vitality of maintaining boundaries between therapists and clients. The importance of fostering a supportive and non-competitive atmosphere in therapy resonates strongly in our discourse, mirroring her own practice at New Leaf Counseling LLC. With a plethora of resources at the American Dance Therapy Association, let's join Megan in this enthralling journey of dance and therapy, exploring the depths of human emotions one movement at a time.

Check out the American Dance Movement Therapy website here.

Check out Maegan's website here. 

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Join us as we embark on an enlightening journey with Chris McDonald, a fellow PsychCraft Network podcaster, holistic therapist, yogi meditation teacher, and author. Our conversation delves into the captivating world of holistic therapy, its intersection with traditional practices, and how it aids in achieving mental resolution and growth. An advocate of yoga and meditation, Chris discloses her favorite holistic routines providing intriguing insights into the life of a holistic therapist.

In the episode, we explore the significance of harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit, and the unique experiences of group therapy. Chris illustrates how these collective sessions pave the way for sharing common struggles and identifying unresolved issues. Get ready for a deep dive into various therapeutic modalities such as breath work, meditation, mindfulness, and the much effective grounding techniques. Discover how these methods can help manage anxiety and trigger a sense of safety in the brain.

We round up our conversation by discussing ways to incorporate meditation and yoga into daily routines to achieve better sleep and relaxation. Chris shares snippets from her podcast and her episode about breathwork as a technique for stress reduction. And don't miss out on our next episode featuring Megan Garvey, where we continue to shed light on mental health and substance abuse issues. Remember, this podcast is for your information and entertainment, helping you better understand and navigate the world of mental health.

Claim your 30 day Aura app pass from Chris McDonald here!

Her podcast can be found here.

The PsychCraft Network of podcasters can be found here.

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Imagine not only surviving the horrific experience of childhood rape but also courageously seeking justice for that crime. Our guest, Lynn Kee, brings us into her world as she shares the daunting realities of this journey, and the shocking revelation that justice doesn't always pave the way for healing. Our candid discussion with Lynn exposes the secondary trauma of the justice process and the importance of trauma-informed care, especially when dealing with differing rape situations.

Beyond her traumatic past, Lynn opens up about her struggles with substance abuse, a common coping mechanism for trauma survivors. She shares the harrowing story of her sister's battle with addiction and the resulting tragic consequences, a stark reminder of the critical importance of mental health resources. Journey with us as we explore the distinct connection between trauma and substance abuse, and how therapy and proper support play crucial roles in healing and recovery.

As we wrap up this two-part series (and we will have a third part next season), Lynn reveals the aftermath of her sister's fatal battle with addiction, a devastating result of unaddressed trauma, and a failing support system. Lynn's commitment to advocating for survivor protections and raising awareness about the impact of trauma on survivors' lives is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we delve into the complex, heartbreaking, yet ultimately hopeful narrative of survival and resilience.

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We're privileged to have an extraordinary guest on our show, Lynn Kee, who makes the brave decision to share her life's most challenging experiences. Lynn, a survivor of childhood sexual trauma, offers a chilling recount of her ordeal, unfolding her family's struggle as they grappled with the aftermath of her trauma. Coupled with her own healing journey, she bravely articulates the contrasting paths she and her sister took towards recovery. 

Lynn's story doesn't shy away from the complexities of her relationship with an older mentor who manipulated his way into transforming a platonic mentorship into an inappropriate sexual relationship. Lynn's courage to speak about her own experiences of childhood sexual abuse brings to light the deep-seated guilt and shame she had to confront, and how writing offered a safe haven during her darkest days. 

The conversation takes an introspective turn as Lynn provides a critique on the justice system's handling of rape cases, based on her own painful experiences. With her family's quest for justice leading to re-traumatization, she discusses the disparity in how her grooming case was handled compared to her sister's violent rape case. Lynn's story continues to inspire as she tackles the impact of the sex offender registry board on her life, her sobriety struggles, and the empowering impact of her advocacy work. Join us for the powerful continuation of her story in episode 110.

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Are you ready to unravel the mysteries of the mind and reimagine the way we perceive mental health? Together with Dennis Sweeney, Dr. Robert Cherney, Andrew Kang and the ever-engaging Pat Rice, we're embarking on a journey, mining for powerful insights from their transformative experiences. These four luminaries, affectionately known as the Mental Men, have significantly influenced my growth, both personally and professionally, and will undoubtedly inspire you too. Their candid discussions on therapy, power dynamics between therapists and clients, and the role of mentorship will leave you contemplating, reflecting, and yearning for more.

Have you ever wondered how valuable the power of mentorship can be in personal and professional development? It's time to quench your curiosity! Our Mental Men - Dennis, Bob, and Andy - shine a light on their life-altering experiences in therapy, revealing how their therapists’ guidance has had an enduring impact on their lives. Listen to them unravel the nuances of their therapeutic relationship and the profound influence it has had on their understanding of emotions and handling unresolved grief. Their fascinating insights will undoubtedly solidify your belief in the transformative potential of mentorship and motivate you to seek or maybe even become a mentor yourself.

We wrap up our exploration with a thought-provoking discussion on the indispensability of community in professional growth. How has therapy evolved over the past 40 years? Can EMDR be done virtually? What role does mentorship play in the therapeutic process? Get answers to these and much more in our enlightening conversation. The importance of mutual mentorship and the need for companions who understand our profession will leave you reassessing your professional alliances. So, come along for this enlightening conversation that is sure to inspire, challenge, and transform your perspective on mental health and therapy.

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Ever sat in a plane, heart pounding as chaos unfolds around you? Imagine my surprise when a routine flight from LA to Boston morphed into a terrifying ordeal. Join me as I recount an incident involving a disturbed passenger and talk about the emotional turmoil it brought upon me. Despite the panic, it was remarkable to witness the courage of the brave souls on board who managed to keep the situation under control.

However, the incident left me contemplating. Do we do enough to address mental health crises during flight incidents? As a therapist, I've always championed authenticity, striving to maintain my genuineness in every interaction. I examine the concept of 'professionalism', questioning if it's always necessary. Perhaps, in some cases, it even poses a barrier to true human connection. This episode is a blend of my personal reflections and professional insights, inspired by Debbie Ford's book, 'The Dark Side of Light Chasers', a piece of work that has profoundly influenced both my personal and professional life.

You can get "The Dark Side Of Light Chasers" here.

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Do you ever wonder how therapists manage their own mental health while helping others? Join us for a captivating conversation with Gordon Brewer, a licensed marriage and family therapist and creator of the PsychCraft Network. In this enlightening episode, we explore the importance of therapists engaging in therapy themselves, the concept of vicarious trauma, and the significance of integrating our mind, body, and spirit.

Discover the power of finding meaning in our lives as we discuss methods to override the amygdala and work on our brains and emotions to achieve greater happiness. Through spirituality, religious practices, work, and volunteering, we can seek fulfillment and life-changing experiences. Hear from Gordon as he shares his encounters and insights from his extensive work in therapy.

Finally, learn about the resources available in the mental health space and how therapy can help people create meaningful change in their lives. Gordon shares his mission to destigmatize mental health and the importance of reaching out to a professional counselor if you're struggling. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an experienced and compassionate therapist!

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What an incredible journey it has been throughout Season 8 of Finding Your Way Through Therapy! We kicked off with Michelle LaReau-Alves discussing the often-taboo topic of sex therapy, and finished strong with a powerful conversation on change. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about some of the most memorable conversations and heartwarming stories from this season.

From inspiring stories like Pavel Yityal's experience with his wife's paralysis to fascinating insights shared by Gordon Brewer on therapy, group practices, and spirituality, this season has truly demystified therapy and its impact on our lives. We also want to give a shoutout to our amazing guests during our special 100th episode week, including Courtney Romanowski, Bill Dwinnells, Susan Rogendorf, Stephanie Simpson, Anna Meyer, Morgan Beard, and Pat Rice. Their unique perspectives, experiences, and stories have enriched our podcast and provided valuable insights to our listeners. So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, sit back, and join us as we relive the highlights of Season 8. Stay tuned for the announcement of our most downloaded episode in Episode 106, and make sure to like, subscribe, and follow us on your favorite platform to stay updated on all things therapy!

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Ever felt like you're spinning your wheels when it comes to personal growth and change? Wondering how therapy can help you navigate the winding roads of life? Join us as we demystify the role of therapy in facilitating change and the importance of taking ownership of your own growth. We'll dive into various tools and techniques therapists offer their clients, highlighting the critical concept that change must come from within the individual.

Discover the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and its ability to challenge and reshape thought processes, as well as other methods like Behavioral Therapy and emotional management. We'll also reflect on the challenges of change and the need for patience and persistence in the journey toward self-improvement. Plus, get some insider recommendations on influential books that have shaped our understanding of therapy and change. So come along for this enlightening discussion and learn how to harness the power of change in your own life.

La version française est disponible ici.

"The Myth Of Normal" by Gabor Mate can be purchased here .

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What does it take to overcome substance use, find peace through mindfulness, and create connections that transcend regional boundaries? Join us as we chat with  the two hosts of the podcast "laughing Without Liquor" , Lane Kennedy and Tamar Medford, who share their insights on sobriety, mental health, and the power of community.

Discover the fascinating world of DNA testing and how understanding your genetic profile can lead to personalized changes that support your mental health and wellness. Lane and Tamar discuss the importance of working with a practitioner to interpret results and make meaningful changes in your life. We also explore meditation and mindfulness as accessible tools for managing mental health and why these practices are often overlooked in our educational systems.

In this heartfelt conversation, we reflect on the power of finding community and being kind to one another. Lane and Tamar share insights on how collective support can help us break free from the darkness and embrace a more fulfilling life. Don't miss this candid and enlightening discussion that's sure to leave you inspired and ready to take on the challenges of life with renewed energy and purpose.

You can find their podcast here.

You can find their website here.

You can find Lane Kennedy's website here.

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