LIVE with The Famous Unshakeable™ Dr. AL

Tom Shepard on Financial Evolution and Living a Fantastic Life

Introduction:

In this episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Tom Shepard—author of Money Isn’t Everything. Everything Is Money, founder and CEO of Shepard Financial, and creator of the Evolutionary Method. Tom is more than a financial advisor; he’s a cheerleader for human transformation—personally, professionally, and spiritually.

A Winding Path to Purpose:

Tom’s journey wasn’t linear. Though he started in engineering, inspired by his father, it was his mother who envisioned something different—perhaps international diplomacy. After dabbling in athletics, lacrosse, and co-op work at a jet engine manufacturer, Tom eventually found his calling in teaching. That led to financial education and ultimately to helping adults and families rethink their relationship with money.

The Four Currencies:

Tom explains his framework for understanding value through four currencies: time, energy, relationships, and money. Knowing which currency matters most to a client or prospect is key to trust, connection, and successful collaboration.

Money as Leverage:

Dr. Lycka and Tom explore the concept of leverage—how using other people’s time, knowledge, and money can supercharge growth. Tom emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between debt and leverage. Borrowing to invest wisely can build wealth; borrowing to consume can be dangerous.

The Seven Financial Natures:

Tom identifies seven core financial “natures”: spender, earner, saver, investor, lever, giver, and taker. These describe not only how people handle money, but how they approach time, energy, and relationships. Understanding your nature helps you unlock personal and financial alignment.

Spiritual Alignment Through Finance:

According to Tom, our money habits reflect our values. Aligning how we spend, save, earn, and give with our deeper beliefs can lead to profound personal growth. He calls these misalignments “financial subluxations”—areas where energy gets stuck. Just as chiropractors adjust the body, Tom helps clients “adjust” their financial flow.

On Happiness and Money:

The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as Tom links financial behaviors to the pursuit of happiness. Whether through fun, work, security, or freedom, each financial nature has its own path to joy. But relying too heavily on one approach can dull its effectiveness—like chewing the same piece of gum.

Lessons from Surfing and Spiritual Growth:

A surf lesson in Costa Rica becomes a metaphor for life. Tom learns that sometimes, effort trumps ease. And emotions—even anger—have a role to play. The experience reinforced his belief in growth through discomfort and tuning in to the moment.

Living a Fantastic Life:

Tom shares his greatest lesson: fantastic lives are co-created. His youthful mantra “If it is to be, it’s up to me” gave way to a new understanding—that accepting help from others is vital. Relationships, serendipity, and the universe all play roles in guiding us toward purpose.

Connect with Tom Shepard:

To explore your financial nature, visit www.currencycamp.com or reach out to Tom at [email protected]. You can also call him at (207) 331-0118.

Closing Thoughts:

This episode reminds us that money isn’t just a number—it’s a mirror. Aligning our financial actions with our values unlocks not just wealth, but transformation. Don’t miss Tom’s unique lens on life, leverage, and purpose.

Travel, Freedom & Finding Joy with Afrostylecity’s Joy & Hugh

Introduction

In this special travel edition of Live with the Famous Dr. Allen Lycka, we meet Joy and Hugh, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind Afrostylicity—an award-winning travel and style blog. Based in Dallas, Texas, they create captivating content that uncovers hidden travel gems while proving that memorable adventures are possible on any budget. With stunning visuals and thoughtful storytelling, they inspire culturally aware exploration that transforms how people see the world.

The Origins of a Travel Dream

Joy and Hugh caught the travel bug early. Frustrated with the limits of their 9-to-5 lives in healthcare, they chose a different path—turning a personal blog into a full-time passion project. Their goal? To inspire others to explore near and far without financial stress.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Travelers

Not everyone can quit their job, but Joy and Hugh show how to make the most of PTO. By combining long weekends and local exploration, they prove that adventure doesn’t always require a plane ticket. Exploring your own city can be just as transformative.

From Blog to Business

The couple successfully monetized through blog ads, affiliate marketing, brand collaborations, and tourism partnerships. Their multiple income streams all align within the ecosystem of travel content creation, ensuring flexibility and resilience.

Navigating a Digital Landscape

Since launching in 2016, they’ve adapted to algorithm changes, SEO shifts, and the rise of AI and short-form video. Evolution is key. Their advice: build your own blog and email list to safeguard your audience from the volatility of social platforms.

A Special Love for Kauai

Among their many destinations, Kauai stands out. Its untouched nature, turquoise waters, and rustic charm remain imprinted on their hearts. Dr. Lycka shares his own fond memories, emphasizing the magic and resilience of the island.

Living a Fantastic Life

Joy and Hugh live intentionally—traveling the world, immersing in cultures, and learning through every journey. For them, happiness lies in discovering new places and honoring Joy’s mother’s dream of becoming a flight attendant. Travel has become a way to live out a legacy.

Tips to Live Your Best Life

They encourage listeners to define their own happiness and pursue it fully. Whether through travel, books, food, or quiet moments, a fantastic life begins with self-discovery. Interacting with locals, embracing spontaneity, and reflecting with gratitude are all part of their daily joy.

Connect with Joy & Hugh

Website: www.afrostylicity.com

Social: @afrostylicity on all platforms

Email: [email protected]

Final Words

Joy and Hugh remind us that life is meant to be lived boldly and beautifully. Tune in, be inspired, and let your next adventure begin.

BIO:

Joy and Hugh are the dynamic duo behind Afrostylicity, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog that inspires people to explore the world without breaking the bank. Based in Dallas, Texas, this couple crafts engaging content that uncovers hidden travel gems while showing that memorable adventures are possible on any budget. They showcase destinations through immersive storytelling and stunning visuals that inspire culturally-aware exploration. With their keen eye for discovering unforgettable moments in unexpected places, they're transforming how people experience and remember their travels.

Social Media:

Website: www.afrostylicity.com

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afrostylicity/

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Afrostylicity/

- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/afrostylicity/

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/afrostylicity

Hiking for Hope with Susan Otten

Guest: Susan Otten, Founder & COO, Indie Do Good

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Susan Otten—a seasoned executive, former Apple leader, and trailblazing logistics entrepreneur. Susan shares her extraordinary journey from the corporate world to the Appalachian Trail, where she and her daughter hiked 2,200 miles to raise funds for Parkinson’s awareness. Along the way, Susan reveals how kindness, resilience, and a mission bigger than yourself can shape both business and life.

From Apple to Indie Do Good

Susan reflects on 15 years at Apple, where she learned the value of responsible risk-taking and continuous innovation. Her transition into the logistics world with Indie Do Good blends business efficiency with a deep commitment to social impact—partnering with mission-driven companies to amplify good.

Lessons from the Appalachian Trail

Susan recounts her grueling 154-day hike, where she overcame two ER-worthy injuries and continued undeterred. Alongside breathtaking scenery, she encountered incredible “trail angels” who offered help, food, shelter, and support—showcasing the goodness of humanity.

Mental Health, Connection & the Post-COVID World

Discussing post-pandemic challenges, Susan emphasizes the importance of slowing down, connecting offline, and prioritizing mental wellness. Her experiences underscore how nature, faith, and community can help reframe adversity.

Doing Business with Heart

Indie Do Good isn’t your typical logistics firm. Susan intentionally works with brands making a difference—from athleisure companies cleaning the ocean to startups feeding homeless youth. She supports clients beyond logistics, mentoring them and connecting them with opportunities.

A Fantastic Life Philosophy

Susan’s philosophy: take the risk, act with kindness, and never underestimate the impact of small gestures. Her dedication to purpose, people, and perseverance shows how fantastic lives aren’t stumbled into—they’re built, step by step, with heart.

Connect with Susan

Email: [email protected]

Learn more: www.indiedogood.com

Stay Connected

Subscribe to Dr. Lycka’s Golden Pearls at www.drallenlycka.com for weekly wisdom to elevate your life.

#LiveFantastic

BIO:

Susan, raised on a Minnesota family dairy farm, learned at an early age faith and family come first, and always help others if you can. After a very successful 15-years at Apple, Susan continued as a business development/sales/branding/marketing executive with two global companies, a strategic consultant, behavioral health COO and founder/CEO of Indie Do Good, a logistics company supporting companies with a "doing good” focus. 

Personally committed to doing good, Susan is one of <10 women 65+yo who successfully thru-hike the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia and raised almost $100k and was named Michael J Fox Foundation’s “Rookies of the Year” while surviving two ER-worthy head injuries and was back on Trail <12 hours after treatment.   

Social Media:

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

https://www.linkedin.com/company/indiedogood/?viewAsMember=true

https://www.facebook.com/IndieDoGood

Meet Diego Lineiro

From his early passion for computing to his rise as an executive, Diego Lineiro appeared to have it all. But beneath the professional success, a silent storm was brewing. A speaker at the Gross Global Happiness conference, Diego shares his journey from high-performing tech leader to someone brought to their knees by burnout.

The Breaking Point

One early morning, while preparing for yet another overseas business trip, Diego experienced severe physical symptoms: itching, loss of voice, and a haunting realization that his life was in danger. Alone in Costa Rica and far from his wife in Argentina, he drove himself to the ER. There, a doctor’s blunt truth cut through the noise—his stress was killing him. If he boarded the plane that afternoon, she warned, he might return in a coffin. That moment changed everything.

Road to Recovery

Instead of pushing through, Diego listened. He quit. He flew to Argentina, began therapy immediately, improved his diet, and started exercising. As he reclaimed his physical and mental health, Diego also began reevaluating his life’s direction. When he returned to work weeks later, he made it clear: the old ways were no longer sustainable.

The Power of Vulnerability

Initially, Diego still struggled. His focus on personal healing led to neglecting his team, and employee engagement plummeted. But once he began leading with honesty and emotional intelligence—openly sharing his struggles and showing up authentically—everything changed. His team responded with renewed trust, energy, and performance. Engagement soared to 87%, proving that vulnerability and leadership go hand in hand.

Lessons on Leadership

Inspired by Simon Sinek’s teachings, Diego realized that true leadership isn't about being a hero—it's about being human. As he embraced authenticity, his relationships improved and his influence deepened. By shedding outdated beliefs about toughness, he unlocked new pathways for team connection, mutual support, and excellence.

Living a Fantastic Life

Today, Diego’s mission is to help others find balance. He advises us to notice life’s subtleties, release judgment, embrace emotional intelligence, and stay open to change. His message is simple yet powerful: help others, live authentically, and don’t be afraid to feel. That’s the foundation of a truly fantastic life.

BIO: 

From a young age, Diego's fascination with science sparked a lifelong passion for discovery. This journey led him to the world of computing, where he immersed himself in programming. Over time, Diego transitioned from technical roles to leading teams and organizations. Today, as Diego emerged from the darkness of a burn-out, he focuses on fostering a culture of well-being, positive leadership, and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those around him.

Social Media:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlineiro?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BVsZIAohxS8CzA5U2LYZDNA%3D%3D

The Transformative Power of Thought with Dawson Church

Introduction

In this episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dawson Church, a bestselling author and researcher exploring how emotions, thoughts, and meditation influence gene expression and brain function.

The Science Behind Emotions and Genes

Dawson shares compelling stories, including a veteran with PTSD whose symptoms improved dramatically after tapping. He explains how techniques like acupressure and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) not only alleviate stress but also reduce cortisol and adrenaline levels, directly impacting gene expression. Thoughts, once considered intangible, are now known to shape our physical biology.

Personalized Medicine and the APO Gene

Church discusses the shift from generalized to personalized medicine, explaining how gene expression—like that of the APO gene—can be influenced by mindset. Negative thinking increases Alzheimer's-related markers, showing that our mental habits have long-term health consequences. Positive thinking and emotional regulation can extend lifespan by up to 24 years.

Tools for Emotional Regulation

Dawson emphasizes the importance of emotion regulation for happiness. Techniques like EFT and eco-meditation help individuals down-regulate stress quickly. By stimulating acupressure points and practicing evidence-based meditation, individuals can strengthen emotional resilience and rewire the brain in as little as 30 days.

Meditation and Brain Growth

Neuroscience shows brain regions responsible for emotional regulation can grow by 10% per month through consistent practice. Dawson highlights neuroplasticity’s rapid pace and demonstrates how meditation can create structural brain changes even in novice practitioners.

Barriers to Mainstream Acceptance

Dawson recounts challenges gaining acceptance for mind-body interventions in traditional medicine. Despite strong results, there's a 17-year delay between discovery and clinical use, with only 20% of findings ever reaching patients. Cultural biases, quick-fix mindsets, and institutional inertia slow progress.

Daily Habits for a Fantastic Life

To live well, Dawson recommends daily eco-meditation, EFT tapping for stress, immersion in nature, grounding, and nurturing social connections. These habits foster emotional stability, improved health, and a joyful life.

Closing Thoughts and Resources

Dawson invites listeners to explore his resources at www.spiritualintelligencebook.com, where they can access free meditations, classes, and certified practitioners. His final message: small daily actions lead to profound lifelong change.

BIO:

Dawson Church is a best-selling science writer and the author of three award-winning books. The Genie in Your Genes broke new ground by showing that gene expression is influenced by emotions. Mind to Matter is based on hundreds of studies showing that our brains play a key role in constructing the reality around us. In Bliss Brain, he demonstrates that as we cultivate peak states, our brains rapidly rewire themselves for happiness. He is the founder of the Veterans Stress Solution, which has offered free PTSD treatment to over 22,000 veterans. After retiring from active business management, Dawson has continued to teach and inspire through his presentations, podcasts, books and blog posts.

Social Media:

https://dawsonchurch.com/

https://www.facebook.com/dawsonchurch

https://www.youtube.com/@EftuniverseEFT

https://twitter.com/EFTUniverse

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawson-church-68b4a8/

https://www.instagram.com/theeftuniverse/

Speaking Respectfully – The Power of Polite Policy with Lewis Eisen

INTRODUCTION

In this episode of How to Live A Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka speaks with Lewis Eisen, a global authority on respectful communication in policymaking and beyond. A former lawyer and linguist, Lewis now teaches how to replace confrontational language with cooperative, inclusive dialogue—especially in written rules and signage. His mission? Making the world a kinder, more respectful place.

MEET LEWIS EISEN

With a background in law, linguistics, and business consulting, Lewis noticed a troubling pattern in policy language—aggressive, bossy, and often alienating. From government to corporate offices, outdated "command and control" structures continue to dominate. Lewis began helping organizations shift toward a more respectful, inclusive tone in policy writing.

WHY POLICIES SOUND RUDE

Lewis explains that many people write rules the way they were taught to speak by parents or teachers—authoritative and directive. But while strictness is necessary, rudeness isn’t. Policies can enforce standards without demeaning language. Instead of “Employees must…” or “This behavior will not be tolerated,” respectful phrasing invites collaboration and trust.

THE IMPACT OF TONE

Dr. Lycka and Lewis discuss how the language we use shapes workplace culture and client relationships. Aggressive rules can destroy trust and cause unnecessary conflict. Lewis emphasizes the importance of giving people the benefit of the doubt, focusing on the 98% who want to do the right thing.

REAL-WORLD EXAMPLES

Lewis shares a sign from a medical clinic as a poor example: “Rude behavior will not be tolerated.” While the intent is understandable, the tone is off-putting. A better alternative? “We treat each other with respect and appreciate if you do the same.” Dr. Lycka adds a story of how context—like a mother searching for her child—can make a seemingly “broken rule” deeply human.

COMPASSION IN COMMUNICATION

From latecomers at theaters to signage in waiting rooms, both Lewis and Dr. Lycka agree that compassion and discretion go a long way. Strict rules don’t need to sacrifice kindness. Hospitality, trust-building, and even small gestures—like offering a cappuccino—create a better experience.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Lewis urges listeners to ask: “How does this sound to someone else?” Policies should feel inclusive, not punitive. Dr. Lycka closes by reminding us that small acts of kindness—like buying coffee for a stranger—create ripples of goodwill.

LEARN MORE

Visit www.lewiseisen.com to connect with Lewis or check out his book Rules: Maximizing Engagement. You can also find him on LinkedIn. And don’t miss his upcoming book Why Are You Yelling at Me?

Stay tuned to www.drallenlycka.com for updates, a free Life with Dr. L hat, and weekly golden pearls of wisdom.

BIO:

Lewis Eisen is a leading global authority on the use of respectful language in policy drafting. In the past, he has worked as a practicing lawyer, a business consultant, an Information Management specialist and a government policy writer. With degrees in both Law and Linguistics, he is well-positioned to understand the power of words and how to make them work for you. Today, he runs workshops teaching people how to shift their rule-making culture from confrontational to cooperative, and his approach has been adopted at organizations around the world.

Social Media:

Web site: https://lewiseisen.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewiseisen/ 

Instagram: @lewiseisen

Rise Above the Chaos – A Journey of Significance with Erick Rheam

Introduction

In this inspiring episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes speaker, author, and human dynamics expert Erick Rheam. With a rich background spanning military service, public power, and professional speaking, Erick shares his transformative journey—from war-torn Bosnia to personal burnout and ultimately to a life of purpose and significance.

From Military to Mission-Driven Speaker

Erick recounts his early days at the United States Military Academy and a life-altering deployment to Bosnia during the 1990s conflict. Witnessing the brutal realities of war and human suffering, Erick developed a fascination with human behavior and nonverbal communication—insights that would later become cornerstones of his speaking career.

The Power of Human Dynamics

Serving as a Special Investigator in the military helped Erick refine his understanding of human interaction. This foundation guided his future work as a coach and trainer, equipping business leaders, athletes, and executives with the tools to better connect with others. His lessons in body language and authenticity are now central themes in his keynotes.

Hitting Rock Bottom

Despite a successful professional life, Erick faced a personal crisis in 2005 that disrupted everything—marriage struggles, job suspension, and fractured family relationships. But in that season of reflection, he discovered his life’s mission: to communicate truth and inspire transformation.

The Rise to Significance

Erick shares his insight on how the most successful people he’s worked with—NFL players, CEOs, and actors—share one trait: they act despite uncertainty. They don’t wait for clarity; they create it through movement. Erick applies this philosophy through every talk, seeing them not as speeches but conversations meant to deeply connect.

Keys to a Fantastic Life

Erick believes living a fantastic life begins with grace—for yourself and others. He encourages listeners to seek beauty, write down what a meaningful life looks like, and surround themselves with positive influences. Chaos, he reminds us, is constant—but we can learn to rise above it.

Learn More

To connect with Erick and explore his book Rise Above the Chaos, visit www.erickrheam.com.

About Erick Rheam

Erick Rheam is a former military police officer turned renowned speaker and author. His passion lies in helping people discover purpose through human connection and intentional action. With his book, Rise Above the Chaos, Erick challenges readers to embrace life's complexities and thrive through the power of grace and focus.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Lycka and Erick share mutual respect and insight as seasoned communicators. Their conversation underscores the value of authenticity, the necessity of overcoming adversity, and the importance of writing down your vision to manifest a more meaningful life. In a world that often feels overwhelmed by chaos, Erick reminds us that our focus determines our direction.

BIO:

Erick Rheam is a speaker and published author specializing in human dynamics and discovering significance. With a background in the public power industry and military service, he has spent over a decade training athletes, business leaders, and executives on customer service, culture, and organizational success. As the former Director of Student Success at The Speaker Lab, he helped aspiring professional speakers build their careers while continuing to inspire audiences with his expertise.

Social Media:

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

https://www.facebook.com/erickrheamspeaking 

https://www.instagram.com/erickrheam/

Beauty Edition with Roxane Chabot

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Roxane Chabot, a trailblazer in dermatological marketing and cosmetic innovation. With over 25 years of global experience, Roxane shares the evolution of medical aesthetics, highlights from global conferences, and the critical importance of humane marketing.

Guest Introduction:

Roxane Chabot is the President and CEO of RBC Consultants and a 2014 inductee into the Healthcare Marketing Hall of Fame. Her journey began with the groundbreaking launch of NeoStrata and expanded into international leadership in tissue engineering and dermatology.

Key Topics Covered:

• The origin story behind NeoStrata and Roxane’s marketing journey
• The evolution and mainstreaming of cosmetic dermatology
• Expanding access through interdisciplinary practitioners
• Advances in scar correction, laser technology, and combination therapies
• The rise of webinars and digital education during the pandemic
• Defining and practicing humane marketing in aesthetics
• Trends in skin rejuvenation, including exosomes and melanosome control
• The power of sunscreen, retinol, and plant-based alternatives like bakuchiol

Memorable Quotes:

"If the patient doesn't need it, be honest." – Roxane Chabot

"Education, not salesmanship, defines humane marketing." – Dr. Allen Lycka

Resources Mentioned:

• RBC Consultants
• AMWC (Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress)
• NeoStrata, Retinol, Bakuchiol

Connect with Roxane Chabot:

Visit www.rbcconsultants.com to subscribe to webinars and stay informed on the latest advancements in dermatology.

Connect with Dr. Lycka:

For more on how to live a fantastic life, visit www.drallenlycka.com and sign up for the Golden Pearls newsletter.

BIO:

Roxane Chabot is an award-winning marketing and business specialist with over 25 years of experience in dermatology, tissue engineering, and medical aesthetics. She is the President and CEO of RBC Consultants, a firm she founded after holding various marketing, sales, and management positions in healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. In 2014, Roxane was inducted into the Healthcare Marketing Hall of Fame for her lasting impact, inspiration, and dedication to humane marketing principles. Throughout her career, she has worked as a senior executive with multinational companies across four continents, excelling in creating customized business plans and implementing best practices.

Social Media:

linkedin.com/in/rbcconsultants

Websites

• rbcconsultants.com (Company)
• linkedin.com/company/11570108/admin/ 

Annie Unleashed – From Financial Crisis to Empowerment

Guest: Annie Izmirliyan, CFP, Coach, Speaker & CEO

Episode Summary

In this powerful and vulnerable conversation, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Annie Izmirliyan—a Certified Financial Planner, entrepreneur, professor, coach, and speaker—who opens up about a deeply personal life transformation. After discovering a devastating betrayal in her marriage, Annie found herself spiraling emotionally and financially. Despite being a top financial expert, she realized she hadn't been applying her own advice at home—placing love before logic and loyalty before self-protection.

That moment became the catalyst for an incredible transformation. Annie rebuilt her finances, her health, her career, and her sense of self. Today, she empowers others—especially women—to trust their instincts, develop financial literacy, and build sustainable careers with less burnout and more fulfillment.

Annie’s story offers inspiration, grounded insights, and practical tools for anyone navigating personal upheaval, financial uncertainty, or career transition. Through her YouTube channel Annie Unleashed, classroom teachings, mentorship programs, and financial planning practice, Annie is a voice of empathy, empowerment, and actionable wisdom. She reminds us that even in our darkest moments, opportunities for growth, clarity, and purpose await.

What You'll Learn

• Annie’s raw story of rebuilding from emotional and financial devastation
• The link between financial literacy and emotional decision-making
• Why many advisors face burnout—and how Annie is changing that
• The importance of women understanding and managing wealth
• Why trusting your instincts is a critical form of self-leadership
• The neuroscience of money and how upbringing affects financial habits
• How Annie teaches financial planning through both data and humanity
• Why support systems and “multiple villages” are key to thriving
• Annie’s perspective on market volatility, value investing, and long-term planning
• Tips for living a fantastic life grounded in presence, trust, and community

Resources & Links

🔗 Website: www.annieizmirliyan.com

📺 YouTube: Annie Unleashed

💼 LinkedIn: Annie Izmirliyan

🌐 Dr. Lycka’s Website: www.drallenlycka.com

Connect with Dr. Lycka

Don’t miss your weekly dose of inspiration! Subscribe to Dr. Lycka’s newsletter, Golden Pearls, at www.drallenlycka.com. Get life-changing tips and be automatically entered into exclusive giveaways—including our collector’s edition Live a Fantastic Life cap.

BIO:

Annie is a CEO, Certified Financial Planner, Success Coach, Mentor, and sought-after Speaker who helps people make smart money decisions and supports financial advisors in building a business that actually feels good to run. She’s all about ditching the cookie-cutter approach—using behavioral finance, neuroscience, and instinctive strengths to help clients and advisors work in a way that fits them. Whether she’s guiding someone through a big financial decision or helping advisors attract the right clients without burning out, Annie keeps it real, practical, and always focused on making life easier.

Social Media:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AnnieUnleashed

Website: annieizmirliyan.com

EPISODE TITLE: From Hollywood to the Himalayas: A Journey of Divine Transformation with Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati

GUEST: Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, PhD

HOST: Dr. Allen Lycka

Introduction

In this deeply moving episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, a Stanford graduate and Vedic monk who traded Hollywood success for a spiritual life in the Himalayas. For 28 years, she’s lived in Rishikesh, India, overseeing numerous humanitarian initiatives and guiding seekers on their inner journey. Awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by President Biden, Sadhvi shares how a spontaneous trip to India changed everything.

From Stanford to the Sacred Ganges

Sadhvi recounts her early years of external success shadowed by internal suffering, trauma, and dissatisfaction. Though pursuing a PhD in pediatric neuropsychology, she struggled with addiction, depression, and eating disorders. A spontaneous journey to India and a moment on the banks of the sacred Ganga River catalyzed a profound spiritual awakening. In that moment, she saw herself—and the world—as divine.

Experiencing Divine Wholeness

Her enlightenment began with the realization that she was not broken, tainted, or unworthy. The divinity she witnessed in the river was not separate from her—it was within her. This realization was the first of many transformative moments that shifted her identity from body and ego to soul and spirit. Sadhvi shares that true wholeness doesn't come from shopping, relationships, or success—but from connecting with the Divine.

Service as a Spiritual Practice

Sadhvi discusses the humanitarian work her ashram undertakes: free schools, vocational training for women, residential homes for children, environmental and medical outreach, and global interfaith water initiatives. She emphasizes that this service is not separate from her spiritual life but a natural extension of it. When we see the world as one family, service becomes not just a duty—but a joy.

A Message the West Needs: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

Drawing from the Vedic teaching Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Sadhvi stresses the idea that “the world is one family.” This ancient principle urges us to see ourselves as part of a sacred, interconnected whole—not only among humans but including the Earth, animals, water, and trees. In our differences, we can still find unity and purpose.

From Suffering to Freedom: Living a Fantastic Life

Sadhvi explains how shifting from the “Hollywood mindset” to the “Himalayan mindset” helped her move from suffering to joy. Instead of identifying with the body or societal expectations, she now sees life through the lens of soul and spirit. Every moment—no matter how small—is an opportunity for beauty, presence, and offering.

Resources & Final Invitation

Listeners can explore her journey in Hollywood to the Himalayas and dive deeper with her newest book Come Home to Yourself. Visit www.sadhviji.org, www.hollywoodtothehimalayas.com, and www.comehometoyourself.org. Also, learn about her humanitarian work at www.washalliance.org and www.divineshaktifoundation.org. YouTube & Instagram: @Sadhviji.

Bio:

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati is a renunciate monk or sanyasi, living in an ashram on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Rishikesh, India, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan Mountains. Originally from Los Angeles, California, and a graduate of Stanford University, she holds a Ph.D. in psychology and has dedicated her life to sharing the profound wisdom from the ancient Vedic tradition of India. Sadhviji is a bestselling author, a world-renowned speaker, a recipient of President Biden’s Award for a Lifetime of Service, and she serves on the United Nations Advisory Council on religion

Social Media:

www.sadhviji.org 

www.instagram.com/sadhviji 

www.youtube.com/@Sadhviji