Guest Introduction: Debora J. Hollick

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Debora J. Hollick, a speaker, multi-time international best-selling author, and award-winning sales trainer. Debora specializes in empowering businesses and professionals through her creative and practical strategies. She is known for her ability to inspire and move her audience with the perfect words. Debora joins the show to share her journey and insights into achieving remarkable results in both business and life.

Debora's Journey and Early Experiences

Debora shares her varied career experiences, which have shaped her expertise in sales and personal development. She recounts a defining moment from her youth when she realized her natural gift for sales by convincing her father to let her move to a nearby city for a job opportunity. This early success laid the foundation for her career in sales, where she learned from exceptional mentors.

The Philosophy of Sales

Dr. Allen and Debora discuss the essence of sales, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs and offering value that aligns with those needs. Debora introduces her concept of "WiFY" (What's in it for You?), which focuses on putting the client first to build trust and lasting relationships. Dr. Allen shares his perspective on maintaining customer loyalty, highlighting the importance of making sales about forming lifelong relationships rather than just transactions.

Relationship Selling and Authenticity

The conversation turns to the importance of authenticity in sales. Debora emphasizes that being genuine and caring about clients' needs leads to success in business. She explains her approach of sometimes advising clients to take time before making a decision, which often results in more trust and stronger relationships. Dr. Allen shares his experience in cosmetic dermatology, where he prioritized patient well-being over making sales, which built his reputation and client loyalty.

Debora's Book: Live Life in WOW

Debora introduces her book, "Live Life in WOW," which stands for Wonder, Openness, and Wisdom. The book is an anthology featuring stories from various authors, each reflecting on the WOW moments in their lives. Debora discusses the concept of finding WOW not only in positive experiences but also in challenging ones, encouraging readers to embrace all aspects of life with a sense of wonder and learning.

Stories from "Live Life in WOW"

1. Olivia Vole: Olivia's story revolves around her heart-shaped glasses, which became a part of her personal brand. Despite cultural challenges and expectations from her immigrant background, Olivia embraced her unique identity and used it to inspire others.
2. Stuart Elliott: Stuart shares a gripping account of a life-threatening encounter with wild animals in Africa. His story highlights the importance of quick decision-making and finding wonder in even the most intense experiences.
3. Kelly Falardeau: Kelly's inspiring story as a burn survivor demonstrates resilience and the power of transforming personal struggles into a source of strength. Kelly's journey from being bullied and dealing with low self-esteem to becoming an empowered speaker and author serves as a beacon of hope for many.

The Power of Kindness and Long-Term Relationships

Debora and Dr. Allen discuss the impact of simple acts of kindness in business, such as sending personalized notes and gifts to clients. Dr. Allen shares his practice of sending Timmie’s cards to patients, which not only delighted them but also reinforced their loyalty and promoted referrals.

Working with Corey Poirier

Both Debora and Dr. Allen express their appreciation for Corey Poirier, a mutual friend and colleague who has been instrumental in their professional journeys. They discuss Corey’s work in bringing speakers and authors together and his dedication to helping others succeed.

Contact Information

• Debora J. Hollick
• Website: www.smashthroughmentor.com
• LinkedIn and Facebook: Debora J.

Interview with Terry L. Fossum

Introduction

• Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
• Guest: Terry L. Fossum, Wall Street Journal bestselling author, TEDx speaker, survival reality show winner, successful businessman, former military officer, black belt, and global entrepreneur.

Dr. Lycka introduces Terry, highlighting his numerous accomplishments and the influence he has had through his work and motivational speaking.

The Power of Positivity and Lifting Others

• Terry emphasizes the importance of being a positive influence in the world.
• Both Dr. Lycka and Terry share personal stories about overcoming dark times and the importance of helping others do the same.
• Terry encourages listeners to be a light in others' lives, rather than tearing people down.

Terry’s Personal Journey: From Struggles to Success

• Terry shares his background of growing up in McAllen, Texas, a town on the Texas-Mexico border known for its challenges with crime and poverty.
• He recounts his father's death and the impact of a neighbor's negative comment, which became a pivotal moment in his life.
• Despite numerous failures in his business ventures, Terry refused to give up, driven by the memory of his father and the desire to prove his critics wrong.

The OXCART Technique: Turning Failure into Success

• Terry introduces the OXCART Technique, a motivational framework he developed based on the concept of the carrot and stick.
• The technique utilizes a balance of positive rewards (the carrot) and aversion to negative outcomes (the stick) to motivate individuals.
• Terry explains how this technique helped him and others achieve success, save marriages, and overcome addictions.

The Parable of the Farmer, the Ox, and the OXCART Technique

• Terry tells the parable of a farmer who motivates his ox using both a carrot (positive motivation) and a stick (negative motivation).
• The parable illustrates how combining positive and negative incentives can effectively drive action and achieve goals.

Applying the OXCART Technique to Everyday Life

• The OXCART Technique involves three key steps:

1. Writing Down Goals: Setting clear, actionable goals.
2. Visualizing Failure: Detailing the negative consequences of not achieving those goals to create an emotional response.
3. Visualizing Success: Focusing on the positive outcomes and rewards of achieving the goals.

• Terry stresses that action is necessary to achieve success, countering the myth that positive thinking alone is sufficient.

The Role of Passion in Success

• Both Dr. Lycka and Terry agree that passion is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
• Passion drives individuals to take action, persist through difficulties, and accomplish their goals.

Breaking Free from Fear and Limitations

• Terry encourages listeners not to let fear, self-doubt, or excuses hold them back.
• He uses the metaphor of "blowing the bolts" to describe the process of overcoming the barriers that prevent people from reaching their full potential.
• Terry shares his own experiences, including a solo backpacking trip into the Arctic Circle, to illustrate the importance of facing fears and taking action.

BIO:

Terry L. Fossum is a #1 Bestselling author on Wall Street Journal, his TEDxTalk reached #2 in the world, a survival reality show winner representing all of Boy Scouts of America as the oldest competitor on the entire show, a highly successful businessman reaching the top 1% in his entire industry – in the world, a former military officer, a black belt, a global adventurer, and much more.

Social Media:

www.TerryLFossum.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Fossum

https://www.facebook.com/terry.fossum

https://www.facebook.com/TerryLFossum/

https://www.instagram.com/tlfossum/

www.linkedin.com/in/TerryLFossum

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8842594/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1

Interview with June Edward - Mastering Relationships Through Energy

Introduction

Guest: June Edward, a best-selling author of four books, including her latest on relationship mastery.

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Topic: Relationship Mastery Program - June's unique program, developed in 2018, focuses on how energy impacts every aspect of our lives and relationships.

June Edward's Journey to Relationship Expertise

• Personal Experience: June's insights come from her own life, including two marriages and divorces.
• Guidance from Angels: June shares that she works with spiritual guides, which has shaped her understanding and approach to relationships.
• Program Development: In 2018, she created the Relationship Mastery Program to help people understand the role of energy in relationships.

Key Points on Relationships

1. Energy Dynamics:

• June explains that individuals are like magnets, either attracting or repelling energy.
• She emphasizes that a relationship can be influenced significantly by just one person's energy and actions.

1. Communication:

• A critical component of any relationship. Without clear communication, others can't understand your needs.
• June highlights that every type of relationship, whether romantic, familial, or business-related, requires effective communication.

1. Balance and Priorities:

• June discusses the importance of life balance. Overworking can lead to neglect in personal relationships.
• Dr. Lycka shares his personal experiences, emphasizing that prioritizing time with loved ones is essential for a healthy relationship.

Five Key Lessons in Relationship Mastery

June introduces the five critical lessons everyone needs to master for successful relationships:

1. Self-Worth:

• It's about recognizing your own value, independent of others' opinions.
• Self-care and setting boundaries are vital. June advises against equating self-worth with selfishness.

1. Trust and Communication:

• Trust is foundational in any relationship, and it's closely tied to communication.
• June mentions her own life-changing experience, a near-death experience at 27, which taught her the importance of trust in a higher power and life's plan.

1. Unconditional Love:

• Loving without conditions is challenging but crucial.
• June clarifies that unconditional love doesn’t mean staying in harmful situations; it’s about caring for others’ well-being even if that means separation.

1. Money and Balance:

• Financial issues are a common source of conflict in relationships.
• Keeping financial balance helps prevent stress and conflict, ensuring both partners are on the same page.

1. Patience:

• Patience is necessary for nurturing and maintaining relationships.
• Understanding that not everything happens on our timeline helps in managing expectations.

The Role of Energy in Relationships

• June elaborates on the concept of energy, stating that people are energetic beings and our vibrations affect our surroundings.
• Positive energy attracts positive outcomes and people, while negative energy does the opposite.
• Dr. Lycka reflects on how embracing positivity and energy has transformed his interactions and professional life.

BIO: 

June is a best-selling author of four books currently. Her latest, All’s Fair in Love & Karma, speaks to the lessons our souls come here to learn so they can advance on the other side. It was based on the Relationship Mastery program that she developed in 2018, that has successfully repaired hundreds of relationships, and completely changed the lives of those that complete the program. She teaches how energy effects everything in our lives.

Social Media:

HTTPS://Twitter.com/junemassmedium

Https://instagram.com/Juneedwardmassmedium 

Https://Facebook.com/juneedward111

HTTPS://linkedin.com/juneedward

https://juneedward.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@juneedward3760/community

Dr. Elsbeth Meuth & Freddy Zental Weaver

BIO:

Dr. Elsbeth Meuth and Freddy Zental Weaver are the co-founders of the TantraNova Institute in Chicago and creators of National Intimacy Day. They have helped thousands of individuals and couples achieve lasting intimacy, appeared on Showtime’s Sexual Healing and NBC's Starting Over, and authored the best-selling book Sexual Enlightenment. They have coached high-profile clients worldwide, shared their expertise at a global YPO conference in Paris, and were nominated as Changemakers at the 2016 United State of Women Summit. Elsbeth and Freddy Zental are a married couple and business partners based in Chicago.

Social Media:

FREE GIFT

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TantraNova website to find out about TantraNova workshops and programs

https://www.tantranova.com/

Sexual Enlightenment book in hard copy and audio format 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1452585431 

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/TantraNova/ 

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/tantranova_institute/ 

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKincrF-VHfsabcIvsbQEhQ/videos 

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1452585431 

LinkedIn

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

Twitter

https://twitter.com/TantraNova 

Andrew Hahn, PsyD

In this episode, we have a very special guest, Dr. Andrew Hahn, a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Life Centered Therapy. Dr. Hahn's journey took a pivotal turn in 1990, leading him to explore new methods of understanding life and healing trauma. Today, he'll share his experiences and insights into his therapeutic approach.

The Turning Point: Life-Changing Experiences in 1990

Dr. Hahn describes two profound experiences that shaped his approach to therapy. The first was a dream involving a terrifying lion, which transformed into a docile creature once he matched its emotions. The second was a spontaneous healing incident where he felt a flood of light that healed his friend's injured ankle. These events led him to believe in the power of aligning with the things that scare us and the potential for spontaneous healing.

The Concept of Life Centered Therapy

Life Centered Therapy is based on the idea that healing comes from mastering what we cannot take in stride. Dr. Hahn explains that suffering is essentially an inability to take things in stride. The therapy focuses on finding the origin of these issues and transforming the relationship with them. By becoming the sensation or emotion we're struggling with, similar to an actor taking on a role, we can change our relationship to our fears and discomforts.

Exploring the One-Hour Miracle

Dr. Hahn discusses his book, The One-Hour Miracle, which outlines a five-step process for self-healing. This process helps individuals become freer from suffering and more aligned with their true selves, often leading to profound changes within an hour. Each session, whether miraculous or subtle, brings the individual closer to their authentic life.

The Five-Step Self-Healing Process

1. Setting the Intention: Identify the most important issue to work on, ensuring that all parts of the inner self are in agreement.
2. Finding the Clue: Determine if there's something else that needs to be addressed first or if there are clues pointing to a deeper theme.
3. Preparation for the Journey: Locate the origin of the issue and identify what the person needs beyond just sharing their story.
4. Taking the Journey: The individual fully embodies the sensation associated with their issue and explores it as if they were an actor in a role, allowing the original story to unfold.
5. Checking for Change: Assess whether the sensation has shifted, indicating a balance has been restored. The process concludes with questions to ensure the healing is integrated into the person’s life.

Unblocking the Path to a Fantastic Life

Dr. Hahn explains that blocks to living a fantastic life often stem from trauma or experiences that couldn’t be taken in stride. These unresolved issues manifest as suffering or inexplicable health problems. By confronting and transforming these blocks, individuals can uncover what truly brings them joy and fulfillment.

BIO:

Andrew Hahn, Psy.D. is a Harvard graduate, Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder of Life Centered Therapy. In 1985, he became a professor in the Graduate Counseling Program at Lesley University and a Clinical Training Director. Andy’s work profoundly changed in the 1990s, when he discovered a new way of understanding life and healing trauma. Life Centered Therapy can be applied to any suffering or symptoms, even physical ones. He also uses the Enneagram-elegant framework for understanding self and others from the inside-out and for spiritual evolving. Daily, he witnesses and experiences healing that is truly extraordinary. Andy is the co-author of the book "The One Hour Miracle".

Social Media:

Website: www.lifecenteredtherapy.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeCenteredTherapy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifecenteredtherapy/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC55I29wMuwYNkF-kbbjIjMA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guided-self-healing/

Embracing the Other Side of Medicine with Dr. Robin Hall

Introduction

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes listeners to the show and introduces his guest, Dr. Robin Hall, a board-certified family physician, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and cancer survivor with over 30 years of medical experience. Dr. Hall is recognized as a trailblazer in the medical field and the author of the Amazon best-selling book The Other Side of Illness: Unexpected Blessings.

Early Inspiration and Career Beginnings

Guest: Dr. Robin Hall

• Dr. Hall shares her early interest in science and medicine, sparked by her inquisitive nature and a personal experience with her grandmother's illness.
• Despite having no medical professionals in her family and lacking female role models, Dr. Hall pursued a degree in biology and business, leading to a job at a hospital.
• Her work in the hospital’s electro diagnostics department, where she was encouraged by a physician, inspired her to go to medical school.

Challenges in the Medical Profession

Discussion: Dr. Hall and Dr. Lycka

• Dr. Hall describes her career trajectory, from solo practice to being part of a large healthcare group, and her frustrations with the managed care insurance model.
• Both doctors discuss the challenges of fee-for-service medicine, emphasizing the pressure to see more patients in less time.

Transition to Concierge Medicine

Guest: Dr. Robin Hall

• Dr. Hall recounts her bold decision to leave the managed care system and start one of the first concierge practices in Texas.
• In her new practice model, she focused on personalized care and prevention, seeing fewer patients and building stronger doctor-patient relationships.

Personal Health Battles

Guest: Dr. Robin Hall

• Dr. Hall shares her personal experiences with cancer, first as a caregiver for her husband who was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma, and then as a breast cancer survivor herself.
• She reflects on the dual role of being a physician and a patient, and how these experiences have shaped her perspective on health and caregiving.

The Reality of Medical Practice

Discussion: Dr. Hall and Dr. Lycka

• The conversation turns to the challenges doctors face, including the legal aspects of medicine and the pressures of being constantly available to patients.
• Dr. Lycka shares his own story of being misdiagnosed with ALS, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the power of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.

The Book: The Other Side of Illness: Unexpected Blessings

Guest: Dr. Robin Hall

• Dr. Hall discusses her book, which is a compilation of true stories from patients who found unexpected blessings through their health challenges.
• The book aims to inspire and give hope to those facing illness, highlighting the positive transformations that can come from adversity.

The Importance of Gratitude and Living a Fantastic Life

Discussion: Dr. Hall and Dr. Lycka

• Both doctors emphasize the importance of gratitude, maintaining a positive mindset, and living life with the end in mind.
• Dr. Lycka shares his philosophy of "Ubuntu" – the African concept of seeing and acknowledging others, which can transform interactions and bring deeper meaning to life.

Bio 

Dr. Robin Hall is a board-certified family physician, entrepreneur, best-selling author, speaker, and cancer survivor. With over 30 years of experience in medical practice, Dr. Hall is well known as a trailblazer, excellent diagnostician, and medical educator. She is the author of an Amazon best-selling book, “The Other Side of Illness, Unexpected Blessings.” 

Social Media Links

Website: https://www.drrobinhall.com

Facebook: Dr. Robin Hall author

Linked-In: dr-robin-hall

Dr. Andrew Kadar on Overcoming Health Challenges

Introduction

• Host: Dr. Allen Lycka
• Guest: Dr. Andrew Kadar
• Graduated from Yale Medical School
• Completed residency at Stanford and Harvard
• Worked over 40 years as an anesthesiologist at Cedars Sinai Hospital
• Former UCLA gymnastics team member and avid runner
• Experienced a severe health scare leading to urgent heart surgery

1. A Shocking Health Crisis

• Despite being healthy and active, Dr. Kadar experienced severe heart disease symptoms.
• First signs appeared during intense gym workouts, with recurring chest pain after nine minutes on the elliptical.
• Initially in denial, he finally recognized the symptoms and sought medical help.

2. The Role of Denial in Health Crises

• Dr. Kadar discusses why people, including doctors, often deny health issues.
• Common belief: "It won't happen to me."
• Importance of objectively assessing symptoms as one would for another person.

3. Dr. Lycka's Health Challenge

• Dr. Lycka shares his experience of being misdiagnosed with ALS in 2003.
• Highlights that even the most fit individuals can face severe health issues unexpectedly.

4. Recovery as a Team Effort

• Emphasizes the importance of a support system: family, friends, doctors, and hospital staff.
• Dr. Kadar praises the support from his wife and trusted medical professionals.
• Importance of choosing caregivers you trust.

5. The Reality of Celebrities and Medical Care

• Discussion on whether celebrities receive the best care.
• Examples of Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley show how deviating from the standard of care can have fatal outcomes.
• Standard of care is essential as it is based on proven best practices.

6. Writing to Heal and Help Others

• Dr. Kadar's book: "Getting Better: A Doctor's Story of Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal."
• Written to share his experience and help others navigate similar health challenges.
• Focuses on both the doctor’s and patient’s perspectives.

7. Lessons on Living a Fantastic Life

• Health crises can lead to reevaluating life’s priorities.
• Importance of gratitude and appreciating others.
• Tips for expressing gratitude: verbal appreciation, gratitude journals, reflecting on positive memories.

8. The Unexpected Challenges of Recovery

• Dr. Kadar encountered unexpected issues post-surgery, such as severe hiccups and difficulty swallowing.
• Highlights the need to be prepared for unexpected complications during recovery.

Conclusion

• Dr. Kadar advocates for gratitude, trust in medical professionals, and resilience in the face of health challenges.
• Encourages everyone to take their health seriously and act promptly when symptoms arise.

How to Get Dr. Kadar’s Book

• "Getting Better: A Doctor's Story of Resilience, Recovery, and Renewal"
• Available on Amazon, Morehouse Publishing, and local bookstores.

Closing Remarks

• Dr. Allen Lycka invites listeners to visit his website, www.drallenlycka.com, for more insights on living a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Andrew Kadar graduated from Yale Medical School, completed his residency at Stanford and Harvard, and has worked for over 40 years as an anesthesiologist at Cedar-Sinai. He competed for the UCLA Gymnastics Team during college and remained active, including running numerous 10Ks. When he came down with severe heart disease calling for urgent open-heart surgery, he and everyone who knew him were very surprised.

Social Media:

Andrew Kadar on Facebook and LinkedIn.

A Journey Around the World with Suzan Owens

Introduction

In this episode, Dr. Allen Lycka is joined by Suzan Owens, an avid traveler, writer, and explorer who has lived an extraordinary life across multiple continents. Suzan shares her experiences traveling the world, from living in Cairo to walking the Camino in Spain. Together, they discuss the transformative power of travel, culture, and finding joy in life’s adventures.

How the Travel Bug Bit Suzan

Suzan explains her early fascination with people from different backgrounds and how this curiosity inspired her to embark on her first solo journey in 1998. Visiting Switzerland and traveling through nine European countries by train, she discovered a passion for exploring new cultures and landscapes.

The Charm of Cairo

Suzan talks about her time living in Cairo and her love for the city. She recounts how adjusting to life in this bustling city was a challenge, but also an enriching experience. Suzan also shares humorous stories of Cairo’s entrepreneurial spirit and the unique daily encounters she had, from animals on the freeway to roadside tea vendors.

The Egyptian Revolution Experience

Dr. Lycka and Suzan discuss the time they were both in Egypt during periods of upheaval. Suzan talks about her time in Cairo just before the revolution and describes her experiences with the Egyptian Gazette, the country’s oldest English-language newspaper, and her unique radio show collaboration with Lubna Abdel Aziz, a famous Egyptian actress.

Walking the Camino in Spain

Suzan shares her spiritual journey walking the Camino de Santiago in 2016, a 500-mile pilgrimage across Spain. She describes the physical, mental, and spiritual challenges of the trek and the many people she met along the way. This journey, for Suzan, was a soul-completing experience that brought her closer to herself and her purpose.

The Importance of Joy and Positivity

When asked how she has learned to live a fantastic life, Suzan emphasizes the power of maintaining a positive attitude. She believes in finding happiness wherever possible and living life to the fullest. Suzan encourages others to follow their passions, whatever they may be, as the key to a fulfilling life.

Final Thoughts and Advice

Suzan advises listeners to discover their own joy and passion in life, noting that everyone has unique gifts and superpowers. She believes that by following these, one can lead a life filled with purpose and happiness.

How to Learn More About Suzan Owens

Suzan can be found on her website www.suzanowens.com, which highlights her travel adventures. She also practices numerology and has authored Wisdom of Numerology. Learn more about her work in this field at www.wisdomandnumerology.com.

Closing Remarks

Dr. Allen Lycka wraps up the episode by thanking Suzan for sharing her incredible journey and offering inspiring insights on living a fantastic life. He teases the possibility of future discussions with Suzan, especially about her upcoming book on superpowers and the future.

BIO:

Suzan Owens has worked and lived in numerous places around the world, even calling Cairo home for a time while she wrote for “The Egyptian Gazette”. She traveled independently through Africa, Asia, Europe, New Zealand, and North and South America. Suzan lived in Peru along the Amazon studying with a local Shaman, walked the Camino pilgrimage in Spain, and taught young monks at a monastery in Nepal. She has traveled the planet by air, land, and more than once by freighter. Traveling the world has given Suzan a unique insight into the hearts and minds of people the world over.

Social Media:

www.WisdomofNumerology.com

www.suzanowens.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/wisdomofnumerology/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wisdomofnumerology/

Interview with John Paizis

Introduction:

• Dr. Allen Lycka introduces John Paizis, founder of Performing Arts Studio West, which has a 26-year legacy of training performers with disabilities.
• John Paizis is also the creative mind behind Mother Goose Reanimated, an innovative art book that reimagines classic nursery rhymes with themes of diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment.
• The book features contributions from well-known celebrities and artists, and aims to resonate with modern audiences through new interpretations of traditional tales.

Performing Arts Studio West:

• Founded in 1998, Performing Arts Studio West trains individuals with disabilities in acting, music, dance, and more.
• Over the years, the studio has worked on numerous productions, ranging from small theater performances to large-scale musical presentations featuring over 80 cast members.
• The studio's mission is to prepare participants for work in the entertainment industry, with many of its students appearing in films, TV shows, commercials, and music videos.

The Concept Behind Mother Goose Reanimated:

• The project began as a way to teach participants at Performing Arts Studio West the skills needed for print work, a medium the studio had not yet explored.
• The idea was to reinterpret traditional nursery rhymes through a modern lens, bringing in celebrity friends of the studio and industry experts to collaborate.
• The book features 12 well-known rhymes, including Jack and Jill, Humpty Dumpty, and Little Miss Muffet, alongside more visually compelling, lesser-known rhymes.

Celebrity Involvement:

• Many well-known actors and performers contributed to the project, including:
• Deborah Wilton (Mad TV)
• Matt Frazier, Naomi Grossman, and Jamie Brewer (American Horror Story)
• Mindy Sterling (Austin Powers)
• Kurt Yeager (Sons of Anarchy)
• Nick Novicki (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse)
• Santina Muha (One Day at a Time)
• All celebrities were enthusiastic about the project, drawn to its unique and visually exciting storytelling.

The Impact of Mother Goose Reanimated:

• The book represents an important step toward greater representation of people with disabilities in media.
• 90% of the over 100 creators, models, and actors involved in the project identify as individuals with disabilities.
• The book's goal is to show how individuals with disabilities can be central to artistic expression and mainstream storytelling.

The Importance of Representation in Media:

• Paizis discusses the challenges and progress made in getting actors with disabilities cast in roles that authentically represent their experiences.
• Over the years, there has been a shift in the entertainment industry towards casting actors with disabilities in roles written for characters with disabilities, providing greater opportunities and breaking down barriers.

Personal Motivation and Family Ties:

• Paizis shares that his mother was a special education teacher, and he had a cousin with a developmental disability, which inspired his passion for working with this community.
• He combined his experience in the arts with his desire to provide more creative opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Audience and Impact:

• Mother Goose Reanimated targets art lovers, the disability community, and anyone who appreciates alternative and inclusive art.
• The book was recently debuted at Comic-Con in Los Angeles and has been well-received by a wide audience.

How to Support and Get Involved:

• Listeners are encouraged to explore and purchase Mother Goose Reanimated, which is available on Amazon in hardcover, softcover, and Kindle formats.
• Performing Arts Studio West is always open to financial donations to support its programs, as state funding does not fully cover the costs of their extensive artistic projects.
• More information about the studio can be found at their website: www.PAStudiowest.com.

Interview with Erin & Stephen Mitchell

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Erin and Stephen Mitchell, founders of Couples Counseling for Parents and authors of the book "Too Tired to Fight." The Mitchells have combined 23 years of experience helping parents stay connected amidst the chaos of raising a family. Their book, set to be released in July, covers 13 conflicts that are normal and necessary for maintaining strong partnerships after having children.

Getting Into Couples Counseling

• Erin & Stephen's Journey: Both started in counseling independently but realized a gap in resources for couples navigating parenting. After becoming parents, they recognized the importance of helping other parents maintain their relationships amidst parenting chaos.

The Role of Conflict in Relationships

• Stephen: Conflict isn't necessarily negative; it's about trying to convey something important. Problems arise when communication involves blame or criticism, leading to defensiveness and disconnection.
• Erin: Another issue is withdrawal. When conflicts are avoided, couples become disconnected. Resentment builds up over time, making conflicts more explosive.

Impact of Children on Relationship Conflicts

• Stephen: Children add stress and can trigger parents' past experiences, influencing their parenting styles. If parents aren't on the same page, it can lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
• Erin: Capacity diminishes with parenting responsibilities, making even small things, like a teacup left on the windowsill, feel significant. Communication skills are often the first to suffer.

Examples of Common Conflicts

1. "My Life Has Changed, and Yours Hasn't":

• Erin: A common sentiment where one partner feels overwhelmed by the responsibilities of parenting while perceiving the other as less affected. This feeling often arises because of differences in roles or responsibilities, such as the default parent who anticipates and plans for the children's needs.

1. Micromanaging Parenting:

• Stephen: One partner may feel their parenting is being constantly criticized or micromanaged, creating a dynamic where one feels like the expert and the other like an apprentice. This leads to resentment and a sense of being undervalued.
• Erin: Micromanaging usually stems from underlying fears or concerns, not a desire to control. Couples need to recognize and address these feelings to prevent the perception of criticism.

Techniques for Resolving Conflicts

• Conflict to Connection Equation: Intentional expression and intentional listening are key. Expressing deeper meanings behind conflicts (e.g., the teacup representing feeling overwhelmed) and listening without defensiveness fosters understanding and connection.

Emotional and Psychological Adjustments in Parenting

• Erin: Becoming a parent challenges one's emotional and psychological stability. It’s important for couples to have ongoing conversations about their parenting values and goals, as these will evolve over time. Understanding each other’s backgrounds and desires helps in aligning parenting approaches.

BIO:

Erin and Stephen Mitchell are the founders of Couples Counseling for Parents and authors of a celebrated new book coming out this July titled Too Tired to Fight (published by Putnam). Erin and Stephen have a combined 23 years of experience helping parents become and stay connected as partners amidst the often all-consuming responsibility and chaos of caring for and raising a busy family. In their book, Erin and Stephen walk couples through the 13 conflicts that are not just normal but necessary to keep a partnership strong once kids enter the picture. 

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/couples.counseling.for.parents/

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