A Voice and Beyond

Why do so many people reach midlife feeling disconnected from themselves?

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Brian Dixon — known professionally as Dixon — shares his journey from quiet misalignment and emotional drift to reclaiming purpose, courage, and authenticity later in life.

Dixon, is an adventurer, author, speaker, and founder of The Someday NOW Project, a human re-engagement movement dedicated to helping people reconnect with purpose, energy, and the parts of themselves they may have lost to burnout, routine, and misalignment.

After a life-threatening pulmonary embolism following a mountain bike accident, Dixon realized the life he was living no longer aligned with who he truly was. At 52 years old, he trained for two years before launching a paraglider solo off Lookout Mountain in Colorado, a moment that became symbolic of reclaiming his voice, identity, and future.

Today, Dixon helps individuals, leaders, and organizations recognize the signs of disengagement and reconnect with meaningful action, ownership, and authentic living. He is the author of Hold My Beer: I’m Going Back in the Game.

Together, we explore:

• why so many men silently struggle in midlife
• the emotional cost of always playing the provider or superhero role
• what Dixon calls the “Man-Zombie Epidemic”
• the importance of challenge, adventure, and authentic living
• and how reconnecting with yourself can completely change your life

This episode is deeply honest, inspiring, and relevant for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from themselves or stuck living a life that no longer fits.

Find Dixon Here:

• gowithdixon.com/
• facebook.com/DixonColoradoRealtor
• linkedin.com/in/briandixonstoryteller/
• youtube.com/@LiveWhereYouPlayTV

Book:

• Hold My Beer: I'm Going Back In The Game - 
  https://gowithdixon.com/#container16

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Why do many people hold back from opportunities, even when they know what they want?

The answer is often simple — fear of rejection.

In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Andrea Waltz, speaker, sales expert, and co-author of the bestselling book Go for No!, a powerful mindset methodology that helps people transform their relationship with rejection, failure, and success. With a background in business leadership and sales training, Andrea has spent decades teaching entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals how to overcome fear, ask boldly, and build resilience in the face of "no." Recognised as one of the top sales influencers and business thought leaders online, Andrea is passionate about helping people stop avoiding rejection and start seeing it as the pathway to growth, confidence, and opportunity.

Together We Explore

✔️ Why fear of rejection holds people back
✔️ How to reframe "no" as a positive outcome
✔️ The psychology behind rejection and self-doubt
✔️ How to ask boldly without fear
✔️ When to persist — and when to pivot
✔️ How successful people respond to rejection differently
✔️ Practical ways to build resilience and confidence

This conversation is especially relevant for performers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating fear, self-doubt, or the discomfort of putting themselves out there.

Because sometimes the biggest opportunities in life are waiting on the other side of "no."

Find Andrea Here:

• GoforNo.com
• GoforNoKeynote.com
• facebook.com/GoforNo
• instagram.com/GoforNo
• linkedin.com/GoforNo?_l=en_US
• x.com/GoforNo

Products and Resources:

• shop.goforno.com/

Book:

Go for No - shop.goforno.com/product/go-for-no-combo-pak/

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What does it really mean to care for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?

In this deeply compassionate and eye-opening episode, I’m joined by Lisa Skinner, author, host of the podcast Truth, Lies and Alzheimer’s, and a behavioral specialist in dementia and Alzheimer’s care with more than 30 years of experience supporting families through one of life’s most difficult journeys.

Lisa has dedicated decades to helping families and caregivers navigate the emotional realities of memory loss, , and cognitive decline, while also bringing hope, practical tools, and humanity to the conversation.

Together, we explore:

✔️ The growing global impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
✔️ The emotional toll of Alzheimer’s and dementia on families 
✔️ Why caregivers often feel isolated and overwhelmed 
✔️ Communication strategies that reduce stress and conflict 
✔️ The importance of preserving dignity in dementia care 
✔️ Behavioral changes and what they really mean 
✔️ Why compassion and understanding matter so deeply

Lisa also shares practical strategies to help families better understand behavioral changes, reduce conflict, and support their loved ones with greater empathy and confidence.

This is an incredibly important conversation about humanity, compassion, resilience, and the need for greater awareness around dementia care.

Find Lisa Here:

• mindingdementia.com
• facebook.com/LisaSkinnerAuthor
• linkedin.com/in/lisaskinnerauthor/
• x.com/LisaSkinner2015
• youtube.com/channel/UC8ER6oZ-FRTxF6EEoyu4BCw

Resources:

• Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/truth-lies-alzheimers/id1656533435
• Free Blueprint PDF: mindingdementiasummit.com/

Books:

• Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost: Stories of Hope for Families Facing Alzheimer’s and Dementia - amazon.com/Not-All-Wander-Need-Lost-ebook/dp/B016CB3SOA
• Truth, Lies & Alzheimer's Its Secret Faces - goodreads.com/book/show/59222219-truth-lies-alzheimer-s-its-secret-faces

EBooks: 

• https://www.mindingdementiasummit.com/programs

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What if aging isn’t just something that happens to us… but something we can influence?

In this episode, Chris Burres joins me to explore the science of longevity, mitochondrial health, oxidative stress, and what it really means to live longer and better.

Chris is the founder and chief scientist at MyVitalC and has spent decades researching ESS60, a Nobel Prize-winning carbon molecule connected to one of the most significant longevity studies ever recorded in mammals. He is also a published author, host of the Uncovering the Secrets to Longevity Health Summit, a podcast host, patent holder and master of comedy improv. He is the intersection where science meets laughter and his life’s mission is to help people live longer, healthier, happier, pain-free lives with science.

Together, we unpack:

• What ESS60 is and why it’s gaining attention in longevity science
• The difference between lifespan and healthspan
• How oxidative stress impacts aging
• Why mitochondria are central to energy and vitality
• The role of inflammation in long-term health
• Practical ways to support healthy aging

This is a fascinating conversation that blends science, curiosity, and practical insight into what may help us age with greater resilience and vitality.

Find Chris Here:

• myvitalc.com/
• x.com/myvitalc
• instagram.com/myvitalc/
• facebook.com/myvitalc
• youtube.com/myvitalc
• tiktok.com/@myvitalc

Book:

• Live Longer and Better: Your Journey to Living Longer and Better Has Never Been More Achievable Than Today - https://www.amazon.com/Live-Longer-Better-Journey-Achievable/dp/B0CFCPVVH3

Products:

• Special coupon code for $30 off an initial order of ESS60 for listeners:
  www.myvitalc.com/avoicebeyond
• MyVitalC ESS60: www.myvitalc.com/pages/ess60-olive-oil
• All Supplements: www.myvitalc.com/

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

In this powerful episode of A Voice and Beyond, Dr Trupti Gokani, a board-certified neurologist, Ayurvedic expert, bestselling author, mind–body coach, and the creator of the groundbreaking Three-Brain Reset, breaks down the real science behind stress, burnout, gut health, hormones, and emotional overwhelm.

Dr Gokani has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show and in The Huffington Post and is known globally for her ability to blend neuroscience with ancient Eastern wisdom in a way that feels practical, accessible, and transformational.

In this episode you will learn the following:

• Why most stress symptoms are misunderstood
• The three stress personality types (earthy, windy & fiery)
• How to identify your unique gut type
• Why your morning coffee or nightly wine might be disrupting your hormones
• How high achievers can break the cycle of overwhelm
• The neuroscience behind healing your intuition, clarity, and emotional resilience
• How to align your mind, gut, and heart for total transformation

This is one of those conversations that makes you rethink the way you’ve been living and gives you real tools to change it.

Find Dr. Gokani Here:

• truptigokanimd.com
• facebook.com/TruptiGokaniMD
• instagram.com/ziramindandbody
• x.com/GokaniMD
• linkedin.com/in/trupti-gokani-md-17533a8
• youtube.com/channel/UCr9al1g2o6HqQOKhROaZCQQ

Resources:

• Stress Personality Type Quiz:
  truptigokanimd.com/stress-personality-type
• Dr Oz Show:
  truptigokanimd.com/watch

Books:

• The Stress RX
  https://www.amazon.com/Stress-Neurologists-Ayurvedic-Prescription-Happiness/dp/1964686369
• The Mysterious Mind: How to Use Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science to Heal Your Headaches and Reclaim your Health
  https://www.amazon.com/Mysterious-Mind-Ancient-Science-Headaches/dp/0692378421

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Tonya Comer’s story is one of rising—with grace, grit, and purpose.

From the projects of Pittsburgh, Tonya climbed into broadcast journalism, corporate America, and ultimately, entrepreneurship. She built an award-winning interior design firm and was named one of the Top 20 African American Interior Designers in the United States.

Behind the accolades and ambition was a woman shackled by shame and self-doubt. Her own self-sabotage led her to rock bottom. And it was there she found the path to transformation. Through years of inner work to heal the wounds of abuse, bullying, poverty, and abandonment, she developed life tools that rebuilt her from the inside out—tools she now shares with women everywhere.

Tonya Comer is on a mission to ignite a Global Love Revolution—by guiding high-achieving women home to themselves. She believes that when a woman heals from shame and self-doubt and rises into wholeness and self-love, everything around her transforms. Her life becomes an extension of her truth. Her relationships deepen. Her leadership expands. Her work opens to something greater than the grind—it opens to purpose and service.

In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life is more than a book. It’s a movement—a catalyst for women to step fully into their power, align their purpose with their professional impact, and lead lives that heal not just themselves but the world.

Find Tonya Here:

• tonyacomer.com/
• facebook.com/iamtonyacomer
• instagram.com/iamtonyacomer/
• youtube.com/@iamtonyacomer

Life Design Program:

• tonyacomer.com/lifedesign/

Book:

• "In High Heels on a Ladder: The 7 Power Tools for Designing Your Life" https://tonyacomer.com/signature/

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What happens when your voice doesn’t respond the way it used to?

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Mindy Pack dives into one of the most important and often feared of topics for singers: vocal injury and recovery.

We explore the early warning signs that many performers ignore, what to do when something feels off, and how to safely rebuild your voice with confidence and care.

This episode goes beyond technique. It addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of vocal injury and how to move forward with greater awareness and resilience.

In this episode we explore the following:

✔ Early warning signs of vocal injury
✔ Why singers ignore symptoms — and the risks
✔ What to do when your voice feels “off”
✔ The truth about vocal rest
✔ The emotional impact of vocal injury
✔ How to rebuild trust in your voice
✔ Safe return to singing and performance
✔ Daily habits for vocal longevity

If your voice is your instrument, this conversation is essential listening.

Find Mindy Here:

• mindypack.com
• instagram.com/mindypack
• instagram.com/voicestraw
• spotify.com/embed/playlist/4SIzKmgkVISEgOx6pnW84j
• linkedin.com/in/mindy-pack
• facebook.com/MindyPackStudio

Voice Straw:

• voicestraw.com
• Discount code: VOICEANDBEYOND (at checkout)

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

What does it really take to perform at the highest level, night after night, without burning out your voice?

In Part 1 of this powerful two-part series, voice specialist Mindy Pack shares insights from working with elite singers and touring artists at the highest level of the music industry.

Mindy is a master vocal coach specialising in vocal health, rehabilitation, and performance. She holds a Certificate in Clinical Vocology from the National Centre for Voice and Speech, is certified in laryngeal manipulation, and is also a licensed massage therapist integrating voice science, body awareness, and performance strategy, offering a holistic approach to vocal health and longevity.

Mindy has worked with some of the world’s leading artists, including Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus, Noah Kahan, Chappell Roan, The Lumineers, and Sabrina Carpenter, just to name a few, helping them sustain their voices at the highest level of performance.

In today’s episode we explore:

✔ How Mindy began working with high-profile singers
✔ What elite performers struggle with behind the scenes
✔ The true demands of touring life
✔ How singers maintain stamina and endurance
✔ Why voice care must extend beyond technique
✔ The role of the body in vocal performance

Mindy teaches us that singing at a high level is not just about talent — it’s about sustainability, awareness, and preparation. Part 2 will be released next week.

Find Mindy Here:

• mindypack.com
• instagram.com/mindypack
• instagram.com/voicestraw
• spotify.com/embed/playlist/4SIzKmgkVISEgOx6pnW84j
• linkedin.com/in/mindy-pack
• facebook.com/MindyPackStudio

Voice Straw:

• voicestraw.com
• Discount code: VOICEANDBEYOND (at checkout)

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

In this inspiring episode of A Voice and Beyond, Dr Debra Clary, renowned leadership strategist, researcher, executive coach, Tedx Speaker and author of the upcoming book The Curiosity Curve, reveals why curiosity is one of the most powerful tools we have for transformation.

With over 40 years of leadership experience working with iconic global brands like Coca-Cola, Frito-Lay, Jack Daniel’s, and Humana, Dr Clary brings rare insight into how curiosity fuels innovation, dissolves fear-based culture, repairs and strengthens relationships, combats burnout, and helps leaders navigate an increasingly complex world.

Together, we dive into:

✔ The Curiosity Curve — Dr Clary’s revolutionary model and assessment
✔ Why curiosity is a strategic imperative in today’s world
✔ How curiosity rewires the brain and increases creativity
✔ The surprising ways curiosity reduces burnout and emotional exhaustion
✔ Why fear, not failure, is the biggest barrier to curiosity
✔ How curiosity can transform relationships, conflict, and communication
✔ How leaders can build curious, innovative, connected cultures
✔ Curiosity in the age of AI and why it’s our most human advantage

Dr Clary’s story is rich with wisdom, heart, and hard-won insight. Whether you’re a leader, a creator, a teacher, or someone longing for a deeper sense of purpose and connection, this conversation will inspire you to see your life through a more expansive lens.

Find Debra Here:

• debraclary.com/
• linkedin.com/in/drdebraclary/
• facebook.com/drdebraclary/
• youtube.com/@debraclary/videos
• instagram.com/drdebraclary/
• instagram.com/the_curiosity_curve/

Book:

• The Curiosity Curve - amazon.com/Curiosity-Curve-Leaders-Transformation-Questions/dp/1639081380

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...

Are you feeling constantly tired and run down, or finding that your body simply isn’t bouncing back the way it used to?

The reason may lie deeper than we often realize, at the level of our cells.

In Part 2 of this two-part conversation, I’m once again joined by clinical pharmacist, wellness expert, educator, and founder of Central Drugs Compounding Pharmacy, Dr. Nayan Patel. Since 1999, Dr Patel has worked closely with physicians to custom-develop medication and hormone protocols for patients ranging from everyday individuals to CEOs, celebrities, and medical professionals.

Dr Patel is also the author of The Glutathione Revolution and a frequent guest on leading health and longevity podcasts, where he shares groundbreaking insights into cellular health and antioxidant support.

In this episode, we explore the powerful role of glutathione, a molecule often referred to as the “master antioxidant". Despite its crucial role in human health and longevity, many people, myself included until recently, have never heard of it. Yet glutathione may be one of the most important molecules in the body.

Dr Patel explains how supporting glutathione levels can help improve energy, strengthen resilience, support detoxification, and protect our cells from the damaging effects of oxidative stress. What I particularly appreciated about this conversation is how Dr Patel translates complex science into practical, empowering knowledge that anyone can understand and apply.

Listen now if you’re interested in understanding how your body functions at a deeper level and how to support your long-term health and vitality. This conversation offers valuable insights you won’t want to miss.

Find Dr. Patel Here:

• aurowellness.com
• instagram.com/Aurowellness
• facebook.com/aurowellness
• tiktok.com/@auro.wellness
• youtube.com/@aurowellness

Book:

• The Glutathione Revolution: Fight Disease, Slow Aging, and Increase Energy with the Master Antioxidant - www.amazon.com/Glutathione-Revolution-Disease-Increase-Antioxidant/dp/0306873974

Products:

• aurowellness.com

Find Marisa online:

• Website: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarisaleenaismith/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marisa.lee.12
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@avoiceandbeyond3519/videos

Resources:

• MLN Coaching Program: www.mlnlifecoaching.com
• Schedule a Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/info-56015/discovery 
• Gratitude Journal: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/in-gratitude-my-daily-self-journal/
• Download your eBook: Thriving in a Creative Industry: https://drmarisaleenaismith.com/product/ebook-thriving-in-a-creative-industry-dr-marisa-lee-naismith/

Like this episode? Please leave a review here - even one sentence helps! ...