Taylor Blackwell on Artistry, Ambition, and the Judy Tenuta Story

Episode featuring Taylor Blackwell

Meet Taylor Blackwell

In this special celebrity edition, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes the multi-talented Taylor Blackwell—actress, writer, director, and musician. With over 45 film and TV credits including Resident Alien (Netflix), Your Friends and Neighbors (Apple), and American Gigolo (Showtime), Taylor’s creativity spans screen and stage. A former mentee of Burt Reynolds and a Today Show musical guest, she continues to blaze new trails in Los Angeles and New York.

Creating a Love Letter to Judy Tenuta

Taylor opens up about her most personal project to date: It Happened, the Judy Tenuta Story. As writer, director, and star, she celebrates the legendary “Love Goddess” in this heartfelt biopic. Judy’s legacy as a Grammy-nominated comedian, accordionist, actress, and trailblazer is brought to life with humor and heart. Taylor calls it a “love letter” to a woman who defied expectations and embodied uniqueness.

Balancing Roles On and Off Camera

Dr. Lycka explores Taylor’s ability to juggle multiple creative roles. She reflects on the challenge of portraying Judy authentically while directing the film, carefully balancing performance with technical leadership. Her secret? Daily consistency—ten minutes of accordion, self-taped auditions, and small wins that add up.

The Mentorship of Burt Reynolds

Taylor shares treasured memories of working with Burt Reynolds, who starred in her short film Walk On. As both mentor and director, Burt taught her how actors can unlock the best in each other. His belief in Taylor gave her the confidence to lead with boldness, and his influence still echoes in her work.

Transformative Performances and Emotional Moments

Playing Judy was Taylor’s first time portraying a real person, pushing her to new depths. She recalls the emotional resonance of recreating Judy’s childhood scene—practicing accordion in a closet—a moment both funny and tender. Another challenge: mastering Judy’s unique voice and vibrant stage presence.

Facing Rejection and Staying Grounded

Despite her success, Taylor doesn’t shy away from discussing the rejection-filled reality of show business. She describes persistence as the key to longevity, reminding listeners that even acclaimed actors face “600 no’s” for every yes. Her grounding comes from passion, purpose, and her support circle.

Living a Fantastic Life

What fuels Taylor’s fantastic life? Creativity, connection, and curiosity. She finds joy in traveling—sharing her dream trip to Egypt—and is excited about future adventures in Italy and Berlin. Her next endeavor? A free show in L.A. with her band at Zebulon on September 2nd.

Connect with Taylor

Follow Taylor on Instagram and TikTok: @themusicalmushroom

Watch the Judy Tenuta trailer: [YouTube: Taylor Blackwell]

For festival inquiries: [email protected]

Closing Thought

Taylor Blackwell reminds us that greatness comes from honoring your unique gifts, showing up every day, and staying true to the stories you’re meant to tell.

BIO: Taylor, an actor, writer, and director born in West Palm Beach, Florida, has appeared in over 45 film and TV projects, including Your Friends and Neighbors (Apple), Resident Alien (Netflix), and American Gigolo (Showtime). A former mentee of Burt Reynolds and a TODAY show-featured performer, Taylor recently wrote, directed, and starred in It Happened: The Judy Tenuta Story, honoring the legendary comedienne. Passionate about spotlighting artists' stories, Taylor continues to create across mediums from both Los Angeles and New York.

Social Media Links 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp93cylB7rI

https://www.instagram.com/themusicalmushroom/?hl=en 

https://www.facebook.com/TBTayWay/ 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Dnv8pRk5R-GVghnPra2Nw 

Unlocking the Secrets of the Akashic Records with Emily Harrison

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Emily Harrison, founder and director of The Akashic Academy. A modern-day mystery school, the Akashic Academy empowers individuals to heal, transform, and discover their soul’s mission through the Akashic Records. Emily shares how this vast field of consciousness holds answers to your deepest questions—and reveals how accessing it can transform trauma into purpose.

What Are the Akashic Records?

Emily describes the Akashic Records as a field of superconscious intelligence—a "book of life" that holds every detail of our past, present, and all possible futures. Unlike religious doctrine, the records exist in unconditional love and zero judgment, offering wisdom and clarity to those who seek.

Healing Through the Records

By accessing the Akashic Records, individuals can identify and heal emotional, physical, and spiritual wounds. Emily explains how unhealed trauma blocks abundance and joy, and how soul-level healing opens doors to creativity, better relationships, and improved health.

Patterns and Emotional Baggage

Dr. Lycka and Emily explore how recurring life patterns—such as toxic relationships or chronic pain—often originate from unresolved trauma. The Akashic Records pinpoint these origins and offer a clear path to healing, shifting people from survival mode into thriving.

The Heal Your Life Program

Emily introduces her signature offering, the Heal Your Life Program. This entry-point to the Akashic Academy teaches people how to access their own records, harness vortex energy, activate their higher DNA strands, and begin true transformation from the inside out.

Surprising Discoveries

First-time users of the Akashic Records often discover that they’re more intuitive than they thought. Emily explains the four “Clair” senses—clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, and claircognizance—that emerge as people access their inner knowing.

Success Stories: Healing, Career, and Love

Emily shares powerful client stories: Cindy, who healed a lifelong autoimmune condition; Laura, who transitioned from therapy to a $70K launch in her soul-aligned business; and Robert, who transformed grief into a legacy project after his wife’s passing—and found love again.

Emily’s Journey to the Records

Raised in a traditional Midwestern Christian household, Emily broke away from the conventional path to chase her dreams in Hollywood. There, through acting, energy work, and metaphysical study, she discovered her gift as a healer. A profound experience with a neighbor’s late father revealed her psychic gifts and set her on the path to the Akashic Records.

Social Media:

Website: www.theakashicacademy.com (5,000+ email list) 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theakashicacademy (18k followers) 

IG: @theakashicacademy (2k+ followers) 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theakashicacademywithemily236 (3k+ subscribers) 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-harrison-27866819b/ 

Free gift: Emily would like to offer you a free gift to increase your intuition. Intuitive Development Training is designed to help the visionary see what is unseen to find more innovative solutions for self and the planet. 

https://theakashicacademy.com/intuitive-development/

Jodi Velazquez: Managing Diabetes with Vintage Nutrition

Guest:

Jodi Martini Velazquez, author of Know the Enemy: Preventing Weight Gain, Diabetes, and Disease

Overview:

In this enlightening episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes nonfiction author Jodi Velazquez, who shares her remarkable journey navigating her daughter’s type 1 diabetes diagnosis at just 19 months old. Jodi draws on personal experience, decades of observation, and a return to classic, health-conscious habits she calls “vintage nutrition.” Through mindful eating, consistent routines, and a return to movement, Jodi helped stabilize her daughter’s health—and now teaches others to do the same.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Jodi recounts the fear and confusion following her toddler's diagnosis. Unable to communicate symptoms, her daughter relied on Jodi's constant monitoring of food, activity, and glucose levels. This trial-and-error process eventually led Jodi to key discoveries about the modern diet—and the value of going back to basics.

Vintage Nutrition: A Return to Sanity

Inspired by her own childhood in the 70s and 80s, Jodi embraced whole foods, structured meals, and physical activity as pillars of her daughter’s diabetes management. She contrasts this with today’s fast food culture and sedentary habits, stressing the importance of consistency, portion control, and natural movement.

The Four Key Acts

Jodi outlines her easy-to-remember formula for managing health:

• A: Avoid high sugar and bad fats
• B: Be active
• C: Consistency in food and lifestyle
• T: Timing of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

These pillars helped stabilize her daughter's glucose levels and provide a roadmap for others seeking balance.

Overcoming Fear, Embracing Faith

A near-death car accident in her youth gave Jodi an early sense of purpose. That perspective helped her face the fear and responsibility of parenting a diabetic child. Through it all, she found strength in faith, determination, and the belief that joy and healing go hand-in-hand.

Finding Fun in the Everyday

Whether turning post-doctor visits into lunch dates or compiling 45 non-tech activities in her book’s final chapter, Jodi emphasizes the power of fun and joy in healing. Her daughter, now a thriving 26-year-old filmmaker, is a testament to this holistic, loving approach.

Home Cooking, Gardens, and Gnocchi

A self-proclaimed vegetable junkie, Jodi hosts cooking parties and teaches friends to make healthy, homemade dishes. Her influence even inspired neighbors to start gardens—proof that good health can be contagious in the best way.

Closing Wisdom

Jodi shares a simple philosophy: Keep moving forward and find the fun along the way. She urges listeners not to forget themselves in caregiving and stresses the value of self-care, even if it’s just a quiet glass of wine at the end of a tough day.

Get the Book

Know the Enemy: Preventing Weight Gain, Diabetes, and Disease is available at Amazon and Ingram. Learn more at www.jodivelazquez.com

Connect with Dr. Lycka

Visit www.drallenlycka.com and sign up for weekly Golden Pearls of wisdom to help you live a fantastic life.

Short Bio: Jodi Martini Velazquez is a non-fiction author from Pittsburgh, PA, who graduated from Robert Morris University with a bachelor’s degree in communications management. She is a wife and mom of two daughters and a dog named Scooby. Jodi has written a memoir/self-help book on how she successfully helped her young daughter with diabetes management by incorporating vintage nutrition and lifestyle habits.

Social Media:

Twitter (X): @Jodi_Velazquez

LinkedIn : Jodi Velazquez

FaceBook : https://www.facebook.com/jodi.velazquez.5

Instagram: @JodiVelazquez

Taoist Wisdom for a Happier Life with Gerard Wouters

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of “LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL”, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Gerard Wouters, a Taoist therapist from Holland and author of eight books. Known for his television appearances and transformative two-day workshops, Gerard shares how ancient Taoist philosophy can unlock emotional healing, simplicity, and success in modern life.

A Life-Changing Encounter

Gerard’s journey began in Thailand with a mysterious teacher who seemed to know everything about him. After five weeks of intense testing, Gerard began a seven-year apprenticeship in Taoist practices. His teacher asked to remain anonymous, inspiring Gerard to name his method “Niranam,” meaning “no name.” Since then, Gerard has been on a mission to bring healing across the globe.

Why Traditional Therapy Falls Short

Gerard believes many so-called holistic treatments miss the mark. Unlike traditional therapy, his approach starts with the physical body, emphasizing that closed-off physicality often blocks mental healing. He doesn't ask questions—he gives answers, helping clients understand life processes and unconscious behaviors that create emotional turmoil.

Healing Through Storytelling

At the core of Gerard’s method is storytelling. He teaches people how to interpret setbacks as messages from the universe, helping them course-correct their life path. For example, something as simple as getting a flat tire en route to resolve a conflict can be a signal to reflect rather than charge ahead. He encourages people to “de-learn” behaviors like chronic worrying and fear—habits we’ve been taught but no longer serve us.

Fear: Friend or Foe?

Fear, Gerard explains, is an outdated survival instinct. In today’s world, it is often used to manipulate and control. He urges listeners to reclaim their power and “disarm” others by responding to aggression with curiosity, not fear. By asking “why,” we shift the dynamic and dismantle conflict at its root.

Practical Taoism in Everyday Life

Gerard’s philosophy teaches that setbacks aren't punishments—they’re messages guiding us back to flow. Once we stop resisting and start listening, life simplifies. He encourages vulnerability and the courage to ask for help, reminding listeners that strength is found in honesty, not silence.

About the Book

Gerard’s book, How to Make Life Simple, Happy and Successful: The Taoist Way, breaks down common self-sabotaging behaviors and offers insight on making better life choices—especially in relationships. Through humor and wisdom, he urges readers to value healthy connections over superficial attraction.

Connect with Gerard

Gerard’s work is available on Amazon. Find him on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. His website www.taoistisch.nl includes an English translation.

Closing Message

Don’t miss this powerful episode packed with timeless wisdom. To learn more about living a fantastic life, visit Dr. Lycka’s website at www.drallenlycka.com and sign up for his “Golden Pearls.”

BIO:

I’m Gerard Wouters, a Taoist therapist from Holland, author of 8 books, and known from interviews on Dutch / US TV, radio shows, podcasts and magazines and it’s my mission in life to help people heal from mental issues in 2-day workshops using story telling.

I’ve been teaching people for 28 years how to make life simple, happy and successful the Taoist way, which is the title of my book.

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089674366451

https://www.instagram.com/wouters.gerard/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerardwouters/

https://www.youtube.com/c/GerardWouters

Living Innovation: From Refugee Camps to Tech Leadership with Dune Nguyen

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dune Nguyen—CAPS member, tech leader, and lifelong innovator. Dune shares his incredible journey from escaping wartime Vietnam as a refugee to becoming a corporate trainer, speaker, musician, and technology expert. With deep wisdom and warmth, Dune discusses the power of learning, the role of innovation, and how embracing change can lead to a truly fantastic life.

From Refugee to Resilience

Dune reflects on his early years fleeing Vietnam and living in Indonesian refugee camps before settling in Canada. His first Canadian home? Snowy Montreal, eventually moving to the small town of Westlock, Alberta. There, full immersion in language and culture shaped his adaptable mindset.

A Passion for Learning and Teaching

Nicknamed “Smiley” in college for his optimistic nature, Dune discovered that teaching was a powerful path to learning. His journey into education began after years in the IT sector, where he built a successful international career. His shift to leadership training led to over 70 courses taught at universities, government agencies, and corporations.

The Tech-Savvy Performer

Merging a love of technology with live performance, Dune now leads CAPS event filming and embraces tech as a key innovation driver. He shares how understanding both the technical and the human side of systems creates unique opportunities for growth and transformation.

Creativity Through Music and Photography

Music reentered Dune’s life when he scaled down his consulting firm. He now plays guitar in five bands and performs solo as a keyboardist. Photography, like music, fuels his creativity and helps him see the world—and leadership—through multiple lenses. These creative outlets support his philosophy of managing energy, not just time.

The Meaning of Innovation

To Dune, innovation is more than creativity—it's a culture, process, and commitment. Whether in leadership or photography, he emphasizes the value of seeing things from different angles. He encourages organizations to invest in the “pillars of innovation” to thrive in today’s changing world.

AI: A Powerful but Cautious Partner

Dune speaks thoughtfully about AI’s promise and potential risk. Like a teenager, AI is still maturing—and he believes we must build a strong relationship with it now. His message: embrace AI with wisdom, ethics, and purpose.

Living a Fantastic Life

Through all his roles—refugee, educator, consultant, musician—Dune has learned to honor life’s seasons. Letting go of one identity allows another to flourish. His advice? Gather your experiences, let them flow naturally, and be open to evolving.

Connect with Dune Nguyen

Website: www.dunenguyen.com

Learn more about Dune’s leadership programs, speaking engagements, and creative projects.

Connect with Dr. Allen Lycka

Website: www.drallenlycka.com

Sign up for his weekly Golden Pearls and discover more stories of how to live a fantastic life.

Bio: A grateful Canadian, Dune values the insights gained from having lived in wartime Vietnam and two refugee camps in Indonesia. Building a wonderful life in Canada has been a great learning experience. Committed to learning and sharing, he has facilitated more than 70 different courses on leadership and management for thousands of professionals at hundreds of organizations in his community. Dune works with tech leaders to drive innovation. 

Social media Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dunenguyen
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DuneNguyen 
• Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/dune.nguyen 
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dunenguyen.page 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dunenguyen1 
• Threads: https://www.threads.com/@dunenguyen1 
• X: https://x.com/DuneNguyen 

LIVE with Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Matthew Negron

Episode Title: Human-Centered Design & the Future of Work

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Matthew Negron, a leader in workplace innovation and former president of Dauphin Americas. They explore how human-centered design, empathy, and innovation are shaping the future of work.

Leading Through Crisis

Matthew became president in June 2020—mid-pandemic. He used the disruption to drive change, upgrading tech systems and transforming the customer journey with CRM and ERP integration.

The Hybrid Work Revolution

Offices must now inspire. Matthew explains how intentional design supports collaboration, well-being, and connection—giving people a reason to return with purpose.

Zoom vs. Real Presence

In-person interaction allows for deeper collaboration and nuanced communication. Virtual calls can't replicate sub-conversations, spontaneous problem-solving, or body language.

Designing for People First

Matthew’s philosophy: products support people, not the other way around. Design should enable comfort, creativity, and authentic engagement through thoughtful space use.

Five Generations, One Workplace

Gen Z seeks mentorship and value alignment. Matthew urges leaders to adapt, offering relational, purpose-driven leadership in an age of evolving workplace expectations.

Culture-Driven Workspaces

Local influence matters. From tech campuses to boutique hotels, companies now reflect regional culture in office design to create authenticity and connection.

Next Chapter: Blue-Collar Innovation

Matthew now focuses on move management and facilities planning. He’s passionate about modernizing outdated systems and honoring the value of skilled labor through tech and training.

Core Values & Legacy

Inspired by his family’s work ethic, Matthew values impact over ego. He aims to mentor and build systems that uplift individuals long after he's gone.

Living a Fantastic Life

Do hard things. Matthew shares how embracing discomfort—physically and professionally—leads to growth, resilience, and meaningful and lasting transformation.

Advice for Listeners

Strengths are launchpads. Even if it’s not your passion, skill mastery builds leverage. Use it to grow your platform—and unlock future opportunities.

Connect with Matthew Negron

Instagram: @mateo_pateo

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewnegron

Website: www.thinksimplicit.com

More from Dr. Lycka

Visit www.drallenlycka.com today to subscribe for weekly Golden Pearls—and a chance to win luxury cruises and resort stays. Don't miss this.!

BIO:

Matthew Negron is a recognized thought leader in the commercial furniture and workplace innovation space. As the outgoing President of Dauphin Americas, he helped shape a human-centered design ethos that influenced companies across North America. A frequent speaker and educator, Matthew now turns his attention to the future of workplace design and what’s next for emerging leaders in the industry.

Social Media:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/DauphinAmericas/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewnegron/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/dauphinamericas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mateo_pateo/?hl=en & https://www.instagram.com/dauphinamericas/

X: https://x.com/mateo_pateo & https://x.com/dauphinamericas

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mateo.pateo & https://www.tiktok.com/@dauphinamericas

Unequal Justice: A Veteran Attorney Speaks Out

🔹 Introduction

In this compelling episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes James M. Porfido, a seasoned New Jersey attorney with over 35 years of experience. A former prosecutor and now defense attorney, James offers rare insight into the U.S. criminal justice system from both sides of the courtroom.

🔹 Guest Background

James Porfido has served as Chief Prosecutor for sex crimes and child abuse cases, and is a certified criminal trial attorney. His work as a legal analyst on major networks and as an adjunct law professor adds further depth to his impressive resume.

🔹 Key Takeaways

• The stark contrast between prosecution and defense
• How bias can erode constitutional protections
• The emotional toll of wrongful accusations
• Stories from high-profile cases, including Duke Lacrosse and a shocking date rape trial
• Why James titled his book Unequal Justice and what he hopes it will change

🔹 Real-Life Stories

One particularly moving story involves a college student falsely accused of rape. Despite lacking credible evidence, he spent over 18 months in jail. James fought relentlessly, only to have the family switch lawyers—only to be told the same hard truth: the system itself was broken. Eventually, when the accuser was later arrested in Florida, the case unraveled and the young man was freed.

🔹 Expert Insights

James discusses the inherent flaws in the justice system, how high-profile cases are often tried in the media, and the critical need for strong advocacy. He also shares his passion for teaching future litigators the lost art of persuasion and real courtroom tactics not taught in law school.

🔹 Learn More

To learn more, get James’s book Unequal Justice: The Search for Truth to Balance the Scales on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or visit www.unequal-justice.com. You can also find James on YouTube and Spotify sharing more insights into the legal world.

Visit www.drallenlycka.com to subscribe to weekly Golden Pearls and keep discovering how to live your own fantastic life.

BIO:

James m. Porfido, Esq. is an attorney in New Jersey with over 35 years experience. He is Certified as a Criminal trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey since 1995. He is a former Prosecutor and Chief Prosecutor of Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Cases and Vehicular Homicides. He is a TV Legal Analyst for over 20 years and an Adjunct Law Professor at Seton Hall University School of Law. Unequal Justice is his first book and talks about the cases and people involved from both sides of the courtroom as a Prosecutor and Defense Attorney.

Social Media:

Website: www.porfidolaw.com www.unequal-justice.com

https://www.instagram.com/jamesporfido/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-m-porfido-b007461a1/  

The Philosopher’s Wrench – Tools for a Better World

Guest: Larry Weingarten, Author, Contractor, and Philosopher of Practical Wisdom

Overview:

Larry Weingarten joins Dr. Allen Lycka to explore timeless lessons on living fully, solving complex problems, and embracing creativity through manual work and mindful living. From his early passion for fixing things to writing The Philosopher’s Wrench, Larry shares insights on how creativity, kindness, and practical tools can be used to improve both our inner and outer worlds.

Key Themes:

1. Finding Joy in Work:

Larry explains how learning can be entertaining and why fun should be foundational to any job. Whether taking apart gadgets or helping others, joy has always fueled his journey.

2. Why He Wrote the Book:

Motivated by a desire to pass down hard-earned wisdom, Larry shares how writing helped him clarify truths and offer guidance to future generations.

3. The Power of Collective Action:

He and Dr. Lycka imagine a world transformed by everyday acts of kindness—small fixes that ripple out to big changes.

4. Embracing a Second Childhood:

Larry advocates reconnecting with childlike wonder—being present, curious, and playful—while viewing work as an extension of joy and meaning.

5. How to Live a Fantastic Life:

Presence and helpfulness are at the core of Larry’s life philosophy. He encourages listeners to notice what’s right, slow down, and lead with gratitude and hope.

6. Life Lessons on Time, Money & Stress:

• Time: Save it by slowing down, planning, and sharpening your mental “tools.”
• Money: Spend with intention—ask if it's an investment or entertainment.
• Stress: Notice five good things every hour. Balance negativity with gratitude.

7. Troubleshooting as an Artform:

Larry outlines how to approach problems by gathering comprehensive data, avoiding premature assumptions, and applying learned wisdom to solve issues efficiently.

8. Final Pearls of Wisdom:

His biggest “tools”? Truth, appreciation, hope, and perspective. These human values guide his approach to challenges and empower others to live better lives.

Resources & Book Info:

Get Larry’s book, The Philosopher’s Wrench, on Amazon or visit www.larryweingarten.com for more insights.

Connect with Dr. Lycka:

Explore more episodes and sign up for weekly “Golden Pearls” at www.drallenlycka.com. 

BIO:

Larry Weingarten authored “The Philosopher’s Wrench”, published in 2023. He’s a contractor, who’s worked with his hands for over 50 years, and has learned about fixing problems, both technical and human. He enjoys helping, whether it’s people, animals, or by simply respecting this land that raised him.

F Happiness and Finding Meaning — With Shawn Leon Nowotnik

Introduction

In this profound and moving episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Shawn Leon Nowotnik—artist, therapist, author, and filmmaker—whose life changed forever after losing his son to suicide. Now based outside Chicago, Shawn has dedicated himself to mental health advocacy, helping others heal through authenticity and meaning.

The Myth of Chasing Happiness

Shawn’s book F Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad challenges the toxic pursuit of happiness portrayed in social media. He stresses the difference between transient happiness and a meaningful life, rooted in vulnerability, authenticity, and living by one’s core values.

Understanding Meaningfulness

Shawn and Dr. Lycka explore what it means to live a life of meaning. Meaningfulness provides a resilient foundation in the face of hardship—something deeper than fleeting moments of joy. This kind of “bedrock happiness,” as Dr. Lycka calls it, emerges from service, gratitude, and purpose.

Escaping the Hedonic Treadmill

The duo discusses the dangers of the “hedonic treadmill”—our tendency to quickly return to a happiness baseline after major highs or lows. Material success, vacations, or promotions won’t bring lasting satisfaction if they aren’t aligned with authenticity.

Living Authentically in a Curated World

Shawn asks all his clients the same question: “Are you living an authentic life?” The pressure to live up to societal expectations or curated social media snapshots often leads us away from our true selves. Embracing imperfection, celebrating uniqueness, and asking, “If I had a year left, what would I do?” can redirect us toward purpose.

Overcoming Fear of Judgment

Self-compassion, supportive relationships, and honest introspection are key to overcoming fear of judgment. Shawn emphasizes that accepting one’s own uniqueness is a superpower, not a weakness—and it’s essential for growth and fulfillment.

How Shawn Lives a Fantastic Life

Breaking free from societal molds, Shawn found fulfillment by carving his own path. His advice? Don’t wait for tragedy to reevaluate your life. Start now—live authentically, with intention and courage.

Resources

Visit shawnleonnowotnik.com for more about Shawn’s work, books, and projects.

Dr. Lycka’s resources and weekly Golden Pearls are available at drallenlycka.com.

BIO:

Shawn Léon Nowotnik, MSW, LCSW, is an artist, author, filmmaker, and therapist living outside Chicago. After losing his son to suicide, he was compelled to reevaluate his own narrative — and look at how loss, mental health, and addiction can affect every aspect of a person’s life. He's developed holistic treatment programs and advocates for improved mental health and addiction disorder treatments, as well as researching, writing, and public speaking about addiction, community, mental health, narrative, and social issues. His new book is F*ck Happiness: The Search for Meaning in a World Gone Mad Chasing Happiness. Learn more at shawnleonnowotnik.com

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/shawn.nowotnik

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-l%C3%A9on-nowotnik/

Leading with Self-Trust: The Journey of Kanchan Chanana

Introduction

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes global strategy consultant Kanchan Chanana, whose path spans continents and industries. From growing up in a patriarchal society in India to coaching leaders across the globe, Kanchan shares powerful lessons on resilience, leadership, and defining success on one’s own terms.

Overcoming Cultural and Gender Barriers

Kanchan recounts her formative years, growing up in New Delhi and navigating a male-dominated engineering program. She shares the impact of losing her father early in life and how it sparked her independence—taking up tutoring to fund her own education. These experiences laid the foundation for her belief in resilience as a practice, not a theory.

Breaking Industry Norms

Kanchan’s transition into the automotive industry, particularly procurement at Suzuki, was met with skepticism. She boldly challenged gender assumptions, eventually excelling in her role and inspiring policy changes around gender parity. Her story illustrates the power of advocating for oneself and disrupting systemic bias.

From Corporate Strategy to Startups

After earning her MBA and working with Fortune 500 and 100 companies in India, the U.S., and Switzerland, Kanchan pivoted to advising startups. Her strategic background in innovation and operations fuels her approach to solving complex business problems and empowering founders.

Redefining Leadership and Identity

Kanchan emphasizes the importance of curiosity-driven leadership—leading with questions rather than assumptions. She discusses how flexibility in identity, rooted in firm values but adaptable execution, enables success across diverse contexts.

Empowering Emerging Leaders

As a coach, Kanchan helps young professionals and founders overcome internal limitations. She highlights common barriers such as fear of fundraising and rigid role definitions, advocating for collaborative leadership and clear, purpose-aligned communication.

What Success Really Means

For Kanchan, success is no longer about conforming to societal scripts. Instead, it’s about owning one’s decisions, challenging norms, and maintaining inner clarity. She encourages listeners to define success based on deliberate, value-driven choices.

Living a Fantastic Life

To Kanchan, a fantastic life is one of daily ownership—making conscious choices, embracing uncertainty, and learning from every experience. She advocates for workplaces that prioritize people, value alignment, and real leadership, arguing these are key to both business success and employee fulfillment.

Final Takeaway

Kanchan leaves listeners with one powerful word: self-leadership. By taking full responsibility and embracing inner clarity, anyone can chart a path of meaningful impact.

Learn More

Connect with Kanchan on LinkedIn to explore her writings on self-leadership and transformation.

BIO:

Professionally, Kanchan is a global strategy consultant who’s advised Fortune 500 CXOs across India, the US, and Switzerland. Personally, Kanchan has navigated loss, defied gendered expectations, and later complex depression through a series of non-traditional life choices. She now coaches young professionals to lead with resilience, integrity, and self-trust.

Social Media:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/humans-of-bombay_i-was-just-a-few-days-old-when-dadi-threw-activity-7013376935527378944-nS0O?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/chananakanchan_strategy-reducedriskproducts-patriarchy-activity-6850169359923474432-AoCY?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAfZ2aQBuLHGPGMqjyqG6oR7ejx2QNbDqAM