Finding Peace Beyond the Pain.

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Nicole Drapeau Gillen, a mother of a daughter who has schizophrenia who has written a book for caregivers and loved ones. Join us for a discussion on schizophrenia and related disorders.

Nicole Drapeau Gillen is a mother who recognized that caregivers like herself often find themselves thrust into this challenging, complex and stressful situation with little clear guidance on how to help a loved one with a serious mental illness.

Her goal was to create a practical and actionable handbook that offers valuable insights into caring for your loved ones facing this formidable condition. Her book, "Schizophrenia and Other Related Disorders. A Handbook for Caregivers" is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Learn more about Nicole via the following links:

Website: schizophrenia-caregiver.com
Facebook: facebook.com/SMIcaregiver
TikTok: tiktok.com/@caregiver4psychosis

The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Transformational Life Coach, Grief Coach, Relationship and Parent Coach, author of the book "Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction", a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She was featured on Fox 5 WTTG DC TV, WUSA 9 Washington DC TV, and WAMV Radio, has been a guest on many podcasts, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor.

To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at www.debbiegailcoaching.com!

Learn about Debbie's book "FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction" at www.debbiegailzane.com!

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Kerrie Laughlin, the Clinical Director of a Washington DC area substance abuse treatment facility that helps patients overcome drug and alcohol abuse through a program that incorporates a music-based treatment model of behavioral rehab about the following: substance abuse and mental health, what parents can expect when their child goes into a drug/alcohol treatment facility, different types of treatment available, Recovery Unplugged and their music based behavioral rehab, how parents can support their child who has substance abuse/addiction/mental health challenges, support vs enabling, and warning signs of drug use. Kerrie Laughlin is the Clinical Director at Recovery Unplugged NOVA location in Annandale Virginia. Kerrie brings nearly 20 years of experience in providing mental health and substance use treatment services to a wide range of diagnoses and age groups in clinical, residential, school, and community settings. She obtained a B.A. from Mary Baldwin College in 2005 with majors in both Psychology and Religious Studies as well as a minor in Asian Studies. Kerrie completed an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2014 at South University. Kerrie is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Provider, and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisor in the State of Virginia. She has specialized training in EMDR, DBT, CBT, MET, ABFT, and Play Therapy. Kerrie uses strength-based, individualized, and client-centered approaches to providing trauma-informed care. Kerrie has extensive experience in working with individuals, groups, and families. She has a passionate interest in cultural inclusivity and has been endorsed as a trainer for CBMCS and OWL. Outside of the clinical space, Kerrie enjoys modular building with Lego, off-roading in her Jeep, travel, and outdoor cooking. Kerrie identifies her core values as ethics and inclusivity. These values serve as the thread throughout the fabric of her clinical presence. Kerrie is motivated for human services by watching the spark of awareness arise in clients and supervisees. The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Transformational Life Coach, Grief Coach, Relationship and Parent Coach, author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction, a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She was featured on Fox 5 WTTG DC TV, WUSA 9 Washington DC TV, and WAMV Radio, has been a guest on many podcasts, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor. To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com Learn about Debbie's book FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

Here is the link for the book A Parent's Guide to Teen Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. Listeners can use the code DebbieGail and get a 50% discount. https://acontagioussmile.podia.com/parent-s-guide-to-teen-mental-health-andsuicide-prevention-recognizing-warning-signs-taking-action-and-promoting-resilience In this episode, Debbie speaks with Dr. Victoria Cuore and Michael Solomon about mental health related topics including law enforcement response to mental illness, advocating for mental health, suicide prevention, and more. Michael Solomon has a background in both the Air Force and Law Enforcement. He has dedicated his career to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. From serving as a K9 officer to becoming a K9 trainer and advocating for those in need, his journey has been driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact. Over 20 years ago, he met his soul mate, Victoria, and together they strive to pay it forward by extending a helping hand to those who require extra support. Their shared commitment to assisting others has become the guiding force in their lives. Throughout his service and career, Michael has witnessed firsthand the importance of community and the significance of lending a helping hand. He believes in fostering a sense of unity and security, working tirelessly to ensure the welfare of those around them. With a heart brimming with compassion, he continues to serve his community, utilizing his skills and experience to make a difference. Together with Victoria, they remain steadfast in their commitment to providing that extra help to those in need. With unwavering dedication and genuine empathy, they strive to create a safer and more caring world for all. Dr. Victoria Cuore is Founder and CEO of A Contagious Smile. For over 17 dedicated years, she has empowered both the special needs community and survivors of domestic violence. As a survivor herself, having undergone over 100 operations to repair the damage inflicted by her ex, she understands and supports those on their healing journey. Through education, support, and resources, she has become a guiding light for those who once felt voiceless. With a diverse skill set and a commitment to ongoing learning, she strives to provide the best care and assistance possible. As an author, speaker, and advocate, she amplifies the voices of those often overlooked, fighting for their rights, self-worth, and recognition. Victoria's efforts are aimed at creating a world that embraces diversity and nurtures the dreams of every individual as they put an end to this violence, one step at a time. Through podcasts and various platforms, she shares stories of healing and strength. Her journey continues, and she is unwavering in hercommitment to advocate, educate, and support both the special needs community and survivors of domestic violence. Together, she helps build a society that celebrates and uplifts every individual, triumphing over challenges and thriving with boundless possibilities. With heartfelt love, unwavering determination, and enduring hope. https://acontagioussmile.com/ The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Transformational Life Coach, Grief Coach, Relationship and Parent Coach, author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction, a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She was featured on Fox 5 WTTG DC TV, WUSA 9 Washington DC TV, and WAMV Radio, has been a guest on many podcasts, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor. To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com Learn about Debbie's book FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Sparkle Lindsay, an advocate for addiction and mental health who helps and encourages people to maintain sobriety and access the needed resources to develop a network of sober supports. Hear Sparkle's inspiring personal journey of recovery, learn how you can support your teen or adult child in active addiction or in recovery, and get an inside look as to what is involved when your child is in recovery. Sparkle Lindsay, founder of Sparkle LLC, is a renowned motivational speaker, author, and recovery coach facilitator. With a mission to uplift and empower individuals, Sparkle captivates audiences with her keynote speeches and touches hearts nationwide. As a dedicated advocate for addiction and mental health, she also guides coaches in walking alongside those facing these challenges. Join Sparkle on her remarkable journey as she helps you uncover your rightful place and purpose, providing inspiration, motivation, and the tools to become the best version of yourself. https://www.sparklelindsay.com The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Transformational Life Coach, Grief Coach, Relationship and Parent Coach, author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction, a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She was featured on Fox 5 WTTG DC TV, WUSA 9 Washington DC TV, and WAMV Radio, has been a guest on many podcasts, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor. To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com Learn about Debbie's book FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Kat Sanders, a medium who will share stories of how she has connected parents with their children on the other side and how this has helped them in their pain and grief.  She teaches others to be open to their own intuition and she will discuss how mediumship works.

About Kat Sanders: Kat Sanders flatlined from a massive brain hemorrhage in 2010.  Her beautiful visit to the afterlife revealed the continuation of life and the connection between all living things.  Once she pierced that veil it would remain open to her.  But returning to the physical world was a challenge.  She experienced the roadblocks suffered by millions of people with similar experiences.  Naysaying family members, churches and friends made her feel uncomfortable about sharing her story.  Over the next few months, Kat's unique abilities became undeniably real.  Kat has since evolved into a Medium and a medical intuitive. She co-authored a self-help book, Unstoppable Life.  She has also been featured on an episode of an A&E TV series "I Survived, Beyond and Back".  She passionately shares her incredible near-death experience with the International Association for Near Death Studies groups and various organizations. Kat's website is: www.KatSandersMedium.com.

About Debbie Gail Zane:  The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach, Grief Support Coach, Parent Coach, author of the book "Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction", a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She was featured on Fox 5 WTTG DC TV, WUSA 9 Washington DC TV, and WAMV Radio, has been a guest on many podcasts, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work.  Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain.  Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor.

To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com
Learn about her book "FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction" at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Lorie Gelsheimer, who found out her young adult son was addicted to the opioid drug, fentanyl. Lorie shares the challenges she went through and heartbreaking moments she experienced during her son's opioid addiction, including almost losing him to overdose. Lorie offers hope through the wisdom she gained in coping with this situation and healing her heart.

About Lorie: In 2019, Lorie Gelsheimer had just finished writing a book of inspiring stories and wisdom she gained while rising above major obstacles in her life when she and her husband found out their young adult son was addicted to the opioid drug, fentanyl. Lorie learned to mend her heart in a powerful wholehearted way, which has continued to help her whenever she is faced with a challenge related to her son's addiction recovery. Lorie Gelsheimer is the author of "BeYOUtiful Rooms to Bloom Your Most Fun, Free & Fulfilling Life" and a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist who is delighted to share her inspiring stories and wisdom that help mend broken hearts and bloom happier lives. https://www.listenwithlorie.com/

About Debbie: The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach, author of the book "Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction", a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She has been a guest on many podcasts, was featured on WAMV Radio, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor.

To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com

Learn about her book "FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction" at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Donna Barwald, a mother of two young adult children with a history of mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Donna shares her story of navigating Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations for suicidal ideation, short term residential and long-term residential programs. Donna's journey was not linear and although tough and filled with guilt, doubt, anxiety, and grief, she shines a light and gives hope to struggling parents in their darkest hours. Donna is the owner of Neatly Arranged Professional Organizing in Los Angeles and the author of "This Mess is Making Me Stress! How to Organize Your Home and Find Peace."



The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach, author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction, a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She has been a guest on many podcasts, was featured on WAMV Radio, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor.

To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com

Learn about her book FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

Life may bring painful and traumatic situations. You may know this well if you are a parent dealing with your child's mental illness or addiction or have lost a child. You may at times feel there is no way out of your pain and no path forward. In this episode, Debbie speaks with Justen Arnold about how you can live your life to your fullest potential when you have experienced pain and trauma. Justen is a Life Optimization Coach and the author of Purpose through Pain and Joyful Warrior, who as a child struggled with his own mental health, trauma and pain. This discussion will help you feel empowered in moving forward, and give you hope for finding comfort through your discomfort and joy despite your pain.



Justen Arnold is a committed husband, active father of three, adventurer, nutritionist, strength and conditioning coach, musician, 2x best-selling author, public speaker, consultant, and multi-certified Movement & Life Optimization Coach. He is the Founder of Flexx Mobility & Performance, a multi-faceted health and wellness organization, and host of the successful podcast Strive 365. With almost 20 years in the health and fitness industry, he also runs a popular YouTube channel and has written or contributed to dozens of articles for various blogs, publications, and podcasts. As a survivor of severe childhood sexual and psychological abuse, attempted murder, and severe trauma, Justen is on a mission to take care of all people, whether it's families, individuals, or acquaintances, through his holistic philosophy regarding physical, nutritional, mental, and spiritual well-being. He believes that if people have access to the best tools and knowledge in a sympathetic environment, they will be able to achieve their fullest human potential. His best-selling books, "Purpose Through Pain" and "Joyful Warrior," are two of those tools. When he's not working out, reading, or writing, you can find him hiking, playing drums, drawing, or meditating. Sometimes with his family, sometimes by himself, because he believes to be the best version to others, you have to do the inner work and find time to love and work on yourself. In addition, Justen is deeply committed to philanthropy and actively involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He regularly donates to and volunteers with various organizations, including his church and mission work with GO Ministries, while also supporting and spreading awareness of FCA's mission to empower athletes and coaches through faith. Learn more about Justen and his books at: justenarnold.com and Flexxmp.com



The host of Finding Peace Beyond the Pain, Debbie Gail Zane, is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach, author of the book Finding Peace and Purpose Amidst the Tears: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction, a single mom of three, and a bereaved parent. She has been a guest on many podcasts, was featured on WAMV Radio, and was recognized by one of the world's biggest influencers, Tony Robbins, for her journey of turning her pain into purpose by helping parents in the aftermath of losing her 26-year-old son following his nine-year battle with schizoaffective disorder and addiction. With a diverse professional background in coaching, speaking, writing, law, and special needs, Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work. Debbie is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with a loved one's mental illness and addiction and those who have lost a loved one, reminding them that life is precious and that there is peace beyond the pain. Debbie holds multiple coaching certifications, including Practitioner of Excellence Life Coach, Advanced Relationship Coach, and Parent and Family Coach from the Coaching Institute and Robbins Madanes Training, as well as an LLM Masters of Law and a Juris Doctor.

To learn more about Debbie, please visit her website at: https://debbiegailcoaching.com

Learn about Debbie's book FINDING PEACE AND PURPOSE AMIDST THE TEARS: My Journey of the Love and Loss of My Son through His Mental Illness and Addiction at: https://www.debbiegailzane.com

In this episode, Debbie speaks with Tony Lynch – men's grief coach, best-selling author, podcast host, and founder of Memories of Us. Tony shares his own story of loss - his son, his parents, and younger brother, and how, after hitting rock bottom and planning out his suicide, he had an aha moment that changed his life, which led to finding meaning and purpose and turning his pain into helping others. Only on BBTV!