In this episode of Conversations of the Heart, I have a thought-provoking conversation with Joel Bernardin, CFA, as we explore the intersection of mental health, faith, finances, and the pursuit of happiness in today's world.We begin by discussing the current economy and the financial pressures many people are facing, along with how money-related stress can significantly impact our mental and emotional well-being. From there, we examine the influence of social media and how comparison, unrealistic expectations, and the constant pursuit of validation can shape our mental health in ways we often don't recognize.Our conversation also dives into Christianity and the challenges facing the modern Church. We discuss why many people have distanced themselves from church communities due to political division, toxic behavior, hypocrisy, and painful personal experiences. We also challenge the phrase **"church hurt"** by asking an important question: *Why do we call it church hurt? Isn't it simply hurt caused by people?* Together, we explore accountability, healing, and what faith was always meant to represent.One of the most impactful parts of our conversation centers on the pursuit of happiness. We discuss how our culture often teaches us to chase achievement, success, possessions, and constant dopamine highs in hopes of finding happiness. But happiness is temporary. Peace is lasting. We explore how the relentless pursuit of happiness can damage our relationships, affect our mental health, and leave us feeling empty despite external success.Finally, we talk about the importance of doing the inner work. Whether it's processing grief, seeking therapy, acknowledging pain, taking responsibility for your healing, or choosing to move forward one day at a time, real growth begins when we're willing to face ourselves honestly.This episode is filled with honest dialogue, challenging questions, and practical wisdom for anyone navigating faith, relationships, mental health, finances, grief, or simply trying to find peace in an increasingly chaotic world.If this conversation resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who could benefit from hearing it.About Joel Bernardin, CFAJoel Bernardin is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) whose work and perspective extend beyond finance into the areas of personal growth, mental wellness, faith, and purpose. Passionate about helping people think more deeply about the forces that shape their lives, Joel brings a thoughtful and balanced perspective to conversations surrounding money, emotional well-being, relationships, and spirituality.

Follow Joel Bernardin on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DEBTFREEJOEL

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-bernardin-cfa-cipm-b862b82b/

https://www.instagram.com/debtfreejoel/

https://www.tiktok.com/@debtfreejoel

In this episode of Conversations of the Heart, I have a conversation with Dr. Jade Norris, MD, about her journey into entrepreneurship and why she chose to leave the traditional healthcare model to launch a Direct Primary Care practice. Dr. Jade shares what inspired her to take this path, the freedom it provides to better serve her patients, and how this innovative healthcare model is changing the patient-physician relationship.

We also discuss the many benefits of Direct Primary Care, the importance of preventive medicine, and practical ways people can take charge of their health before chronic conditions develop. Whether you're looking for a new perspective on healthcare, considering a Direct Primary Care physician, or simply want to learn how to live a healthier life, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.

About Dr. Jade

Jade E. Norris, MD, affectionately known as Dr. Jade, is a devoted Christian, wife, mother, and Las Vegas native. She is a board-certified Family Medicine physician with additional certification in Obesity Medicine. Through the principles of Lifestyle Medicine and her personalized wellness program, The NSPIRED Health Method, she helps patients prevent and even reverse chronic diseases by focusing on sustainable, long-term wellness.

Dr. Jade is also the founder of NSPIRE Primary Care and the nonprofit organization NSPIRELV, which hosts wellness events throughout Las Vegas to inspire healthier individuals, marriages, and families.

She earned her bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, received her Doctor of Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University, and completed her Family Medicine Residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Southern California.

In addition to practicing medicine, Dr. Jade has shared her expertise through magazines, radio, television, and social media. She is also the host of The She NSPIRES Podcast and the author of the children's empowerment book series, You Can Call Me Queen and You Can Call Me King.

Dr. Jade has a passion for fitness, dance, healthy cooking, and mentoring and empowering young girls and teens of color. Her mission is to promote health and wellness for the entire family across every generation because, as she says, "Health, it's a LIFESTYLE!"

Connect with Dr. Jade:

🌐 https://nspireprimarycare.com/

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjademd

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjademd/

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jade-norris-a95545326/

Season 7 of Conversations of the Heart with T. Till premieres with an impactful and deeply personal conversation featuring Licensed Master Social Worker, Majia Rhyans.

In this powerful episode, Majia opens up about her healing journey and how “mom guilt” once prevented her from fully prioritizing herself. She shares how learning to “put the airplane mask on herself first” transformed not only her mental and emotional well-being, but also the way she showed up for her children. Majia reflects on the positive changes her children noticed once she began intentionally pouring into herself and embracing self-care without shame.

The conversation also highlights the importance of having the right support system and “village” during life’s hardest moments. Majia discusses how meaningful friendships and community played a critical role in helping her heal, while emphasizing why finding people who genuinely support, uplift, and understand you matters.

Majia also speaks candidly about her current experience with grief after losing multiple family members in recent years, sharing how one particular loss deeply impacted her life and perspective.

Drawing from both her personal experiences and professional expertise as a social worker, Majia offers invaluable insight into advocating for sick loved ones in hospital settings. She explains why families should never feel intimidated by doctors, nurses, or case managers, and why asking questions, seeking clarity, and fully understanding treatment options is essential. Majia reminds listeners that no one will advocate for your loved ones more than you will.

This season premiere is filled with vulnerability, healing, wisdom, and practical advice for anyone navigating motherhood, grief, self-care, or caregiving.

Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow Conversations of the Heart with T. Till for more authentic conversations that inspire healing, growth, and understanding.

Connect with Majia:https://anchor.fm/healedyet

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, I sit down with minister, podcaster, and three-time author Justin Belt to dive deep into the themes of his latest book, The Purpose In The Pause. 🙏📖

We talk candidly about the toughest "pause moments" in life—the times when everything feels like it’s on hold or moving in slow motion. Justin opens up about what inspired him to write his book and how he personally navigated seasons of silence, uncertainty, and waiting on God.

Together, we uncover the pressure Christians often feel to perform, to always “get it right,” and the guilt that comes when life doesn’t go as planned. Have you ever wondered:

• “Did I do something wrong?”

• “Why does it feel like God isn’t showing up?”

• “Is God punishing me?”

Justin answers those questions with wisdom and grace as he challenges these misconceptions and shares how God uses pauses not as punishment—but as preparation. 💡

From breaking down the selfish tendencies that make us think the world revolves around our wants, to exploring how a silent season can become an echo chamber for our insecurities, this episode is full of insights, truth, and encouragement.

🎧 Tune in and discover how to embrace the pause, shift your perspective, and find purpose even when it feels like nothing is happening.

Be sure to follow Justin:

https://www.tiktok.com/@_jbspeaksBuy

The Purpose In The Pause Here:

https://payhip.com/b/ys3hW

https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Pause-Trusting-When-Everything/dp/B0FR4M8GNP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3EOISIGD8C565&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.P2cGgL9rRJstZyZL-mBvdw.ftZUW8j1OioQlOBmI5CFqrHBrDo2-TR6hfLzQ7i4aJ4&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+purpose+in+the+pause+justin+belt&qid=1763427604&sprefix=the+purpose+in+the+pause+justin+bel%2Caps%2C240&sr=8-1

Rise Up: 60 Days of Spiritual Strength for Men:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFWHD1KC?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_19WWNCST3Q69N6H2FEE0&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_19WWNCST3Q69N6H2FEE0&social_share=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_19WWNCST3Q69N6H2FEE0&language=en-US&skipTwisterOG=1

We’re back with Part 2 of our deep dive into the process of dating with Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Jane Johnson-Wall. In this conversation, we explore what really happens when the excitement of dating shifts from surface-level fun to the reality of building something deeper.

We unpack why it’s easy to get caught up in the vibes, fun, and commonalities—but harder to be truly naked with someone emotionally and mentally. What happens when the “fun” stops and real life shows up? We discuss the difference between chasing the dopamine hit of excitement versus embracing the vulnerability of honest, tough conversations.

From communication styles to self-accountability, we ask the real question: What’s the goal? Together, we explore how resentment can grow on both sides if tough conversations are avoided, and why seeking peace in relationships often matters more than chasing fleeting happiness.

If you’re navigating dating, love, or long-term relationships, this episode will challenge you to rethink connection, communication, and the path toward building something real

Keep up with Jane: https://www.themotherloadcollective.com/

https://www.janejohnsonwall.com/

https://www.yourmompod.com/about

In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Naisha C, a dedicated behavioral health professional who opens up about her powerful journey of healing and transformation. Naisha shares her personal experiences of navigating life after divorce, embracing the role of a proud boy mom, moving through the stages of grief, and finding strength through therapy. This conversation is filled with wisdom, resilience, and hope—perfect for anyone seeking encouragement on their own path to healing and growth.

Connect with Naisha here:

https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@naisha_tyiease⁩  https://www.instagram.com/naishatyiease/www.tiktok.com/@naishatyiease

In this episode, Jane Johnson Wall, LMFT, and I dive deep into the real goals of a relationship. Is the goal to “succeed”? To “be right”? Or is there something deeper we should be aiming for?

We explore how the inability to have tough conversations can slowly destroy relationships, and how selfishness, lack of compromise, pride, and ego often become silent killers. We also discuss how unaddressed trauma — and the resistance to therapy — can disrupt the peace and growth of a partnership.

Another big topic: How should we approach couples or marital therapy? Is it a tool for healing, or do we sometimes use it as a weapon against our partners?

These questions — and more — help us reflect on what truly matters in love and partnership. This is only Part One… Part Two is coming soon!Keep up with Jane: https://www.themotherloadcollective.com/

https://www.janejohnsonwall.com/

https://www.yourmompod.com/about

In this deeply resonant conversation, Dr. Lori M. Nixon- Bethea, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACSand I explore what it means to live through—and ultimately transcend—the slow burn of chronic disappointment. We begin by sharing the gulf between the lives we built and the dreams we once held, acknowledging the grief that comes from unmet expectations. Dr. Lori recounts her own journey from frustration and self‑reproach to a place of steadfast peace, grounded in the profound realization that life is co‑authored by God, not solely directed by our own hands.As she reflects on seasons when God felt silent, Dr. Lori offers compassionate wisdom: struggle can be a divine instructor, teaching us patience and attuning us to God’s perfect timing rather than our hurried agendas. Together, we shed light on a common but overlooked phenomenon—high‑functioning grief. So many of us soldier on, outwardly composed yet inwardly fractured, deploying church‑speak and religious ritual as shields against our own pain.We unpack the phrase “I don’t claim that,” often brandished as spiritual armor to deny reality—whether in physical health, mental well‑being, or relational struggle—and examine the hidden cost of such avoidance. Truthfulness, we agree, is the catalyst that begins genuine transformation. By naming our wounds instead of whitewashing them, we break the cycle of compounding trauma that festers when left unaddressed.Recognizing a gap in support systems, we advocate for expanded mental‑health resources and financial‑literacy programs within the church—initiatives that would not only fortify congregants but also protect pastors from burnout. Our dialogue then turns to gendered experiences of therapy: the unique obstacles men face when their struggles are minimized or dismissed, and the critical need for individual counseling before embarking on couples work. We consider how men and women can better bridge their differing emotional landscapes through open communication and mutual understanding.Ultimately, this episode is an invitation—to be honest about where we are, to lean into the hard truths, and to trust that, in our vulnerability, we begin the work of healing and renewal.About Dr. Lori M. Nixon‑BetheaDr. Lori M. Nixon‑Bethea, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACSFounder and Owner, Intentional Hearts Counseling Services, LLC (Monmouth County, NJ)With over seventeen years of professional experience, Dr. Nixon‑Bethea provides individual and group counseling to adults, couples, families, and at‑risk youth in both New Jersey and Florida. Her expertise spans work with the chronically mentally ill, foster‑care youth, and individuals in crisis.Education:- BA in Psychology, Monmouth University- MA in Psychological Counseling & Post‑Master’s Certificate in Professional Counseling, Monmouth University- PhD in Counseling (Marital & Family Counseling specialization), Barry UniversityClinical Credentials:Licensed Professional Counselor (NJ)Licensed Mental Health Counselor (NY)Nationally Board‑Certified Counselor & Approved Clinical Supervisor, Center for Credentialing and EducationAcademic Role: Assistant Professor of Psychology and Counseling (tenure track), Georgian Court UniversityResearch Interests: Marital and relationship success, mental‑health advocacy for dancers, and issues impacting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.Publications & Media:Author of Riley’s Worry Away (2019), a children’s book addressing childhood anxietyQuoted in Cosmopolitan, Verywell Health, and ShapeFun Facts: Former Miss New Jersey USA delegate, graduate of the Olphelia DeVore School of Charm, and lifelong dancer. Dr. Nixon‑Bethea resides in Monmouth County with her husband and their dog.Keep up with Dr. Lori:https://drlorinixon.com/

linktr.ee/Dr.LoriGrab a copy of Dr. Lori's children's book:Riley's Worry Away: A children's book about worrying

In this episode, Coach Debbi Thomas and I explore the profound effects of sidestepping difficult conversations—and the incredible growth that comes when we lean into them. We unpack how parenting has evolved from “back in the day” to today’s hyper-connected world of camera phones and social media. Along the way, we examine how our communication styles shift depending on which family member we’re talking to, and why mastering the art of the intentional pause can transform tense moments into opportunities for self-reflection and genuine connection. Tune in as we share practical strategies for embracing discomfort, responding thoughtfully to criticism, and cultivating more authentic, meaningful relationships.👩‍🏫 About Coach Debbi Thomas, Certified Mindfulness Coach & Author:

Meet Debbi, a compassionate soul and native of the Philadelphia area, whose heart has always been drawn to helping people. Throughout the years, her empathy and passion for assisting others in their healing journey have flourished, fueled by her own experiences of overcoming adversity—including job loss, self‑pity, divorce, and teen pregnancy. These personal challenges have become her driving force to motivate and inspire others to rise above their own obstacles.

Since 2020, Debbi has pursued her calling as a Mindfulness Coach, dedicating herself to a single purpose: guiding individuals toward strengthening their emotional intelligence and leading a life of purpose through the transformative practice of meditation & mindfulness.

Debbi went on to establish Haven Inspired in 2021 to further her mission to aid others in emotional healing. Whether someone is grappling with pain, stress, or anxiety, or simply seeking to enhance their mental state, Debbi & Haven Inspired are here to support them in becoming the best version of themselves. In 2024, Debbi took it a step further by enrolling at Northwestern University to pursue a Master’s Degree in Counseling and is currently pursuing her degree.

Debbi’s commitment to mindfulness is deeply ingrained in her own life. She specializes in helping individuals seamlessly integrate these practices into their everyday routines, nurturing their spiritual growth and mental clarity. Empowering them to embrace their vulnerabilities, discover their inner strength, and cultivate a greater sense of purpose. With her warm and caring approach, she invites all to embark on a transformative journey toward a more fulfilling and mindful life. For those seeking solace, inspiration, and personal growth, Debbi is the coach you need on your path to emotional well‑being and self‑discovery.

Subscribe so you never miss an episode—because your next tough conversation could be the start of something beautiful.

Keep up with Coach Debbi:

https://www.instagram.com/haveninspired/

https://www.tiktok.com/@haveninspired

Nah...Self, Let Me Be Great!: Overcoming Self Doubt Inspiration & Workbook: https://a.co/d/2lft9EW

In this powerful and soul-stirring episode of Conversations of the Heart with T. Till, we’re joined by the remarkable Dr. Susan Regisford, MD — a woman whose life is as multifaceted as it is inspiring. A retired New York State physician, devoted deaconess, certified coach, and holistic wellness advocate, Dr. Regisford sits down with us for a heartfelt conversation that merges science, spirit, and self-discovery.

Dr. Regisford brings her decades of experience in healthcare and spiritual leadership to illuminate a crucial topic that affects far too many of us — stress, the silent killer. Together, we explore how chronic stress wreaks havoc on our minds, bodies, and souls — from gut health to immune breakdown, from heart disease and diabetes to cancer and Alzheimer’s. With clarity and compassion, she reveals how living in a constant state of “fight or flight” slowly erodes our health, often without us realizing it. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the hard truths — stress is not just emotional; it’s biological, spiritual, and deeply systemic.

But this episode isn’t just a warning bell — it’s a call to rediscover hope, healing, and faith. Dr. Regisford opens up about the transformative power of her Christian faith and how spiritual grounding became the anchor that pulled her from burnout to balance. We dive deep into her brand-new book, Rediscover the Power Within, which invites women of faith to reclaim their wholeness and begin living with purpose, peace, and passion.

You’ll also get a glimpse into Susan’s vibrant personal life — from hiking trails and tennis courts to tropical sunshine and quiet retreats — all reflecting the integrated life she now coaches others to pursue. And yes, her quirky humor and genuine warmth shine through every moment.

Whether you're battling stress, seeking balance, or simply curious about the intersection of faith, health, and personal growth — this episode will challenge you, comfort you, and leave you better than it found you.

🔊 Listen now and be part of this healing conversation. Share this episode with someone you love — because stress is real, but so is the power within us to overcome it.

✨ Available on all major podcast platforms.
💬 Subscribe, rate, and drop us a review — your heart-centered community starts here.

Please grab Dr. Susan's new book:https://www.amazon.com/Rediscover-Power-Within-Susan-Regisford/dp/B0DXHM7M21/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.N_Kh7mROCfGL5pZkXEEaxA.A2c8kmLX-GCD4Rv_Z2VC05TaDGddxwU_mBDcC7f2uPw&qid=1744036344&sr=8-1Keep up with Dr. Susan:

https://www.bestyoumadepossible.com/https://www.bestyoumadepossible.com/rediscoverthepowerwithin/https://www.instagram.com/bestyoumadepossible/https://x.com/bestyoumadeposshttps://www.facebook.com/bestyoumadepossible