Mindset Connection

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

This is our tenth episode! Thank you for taking the time to listen and watch our wonderful guests in action. In every episode, we are proud to showcase everyday changemakers who are making the world a better place, one step at a time. Their work keeps us inspired. Keep coming back, as we have an incredible list of guests in 2025 who will continue to empower you, challenge you, and invite you to become a better version of yourself.  We hope this podcast will help you take one small step towards making a BIG change. Remember-Do Hard Things!

The Changemaker for Creating Resiliency and a More Competent Community-Susan Tellone

Susan Tellone is a highly accomplished Certified School Nurse and health educator with a master’s degree in nursing and a bachelor’s degree in mental health and rehabilitation. With a career spanning over 4 decades, Susan has dedicated herself to the field of psychiatric nursing with a focus on suicide prevention. She began her career as one of the first PESS (Psychiatric Emergency Suicide Screeners) at Monmouth Medical's Emergency rooms and went on from there to teach for many years at the University of Medicine and Dentistry on various topics on mental health, but specifically the psychiatric screening law of New Jersey. Transitioning to education, Susan joined Manasquan High School in 2008 as a school nurse and educator. During her tenure, the school faced a significant teenage suicide contagion, prompting Susan to take on multiple roles as Crisis Coordinator, Anti-bullying specialist, and Master Lifelines Suicide Prevention Trainer. She co-authored a Project Serv Grant, securing funding to develop a Crisis plan based on the Lifelines Curriculum, which became a national model. Susan presented this plan at various conferences across the country. including the National Conference on After retiring from education, Susan served as the Vice President of the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, and has implemented the Lifelines Suicide Prevention program in over 160 schools within Monmouth County. Currently, Susan holds the position of Clinical Director at the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, where she continues her passion for preventing suicide among youth through education in schools and communities. Susan is a strong advocate for mental health and has presented multiple times in the NJ Senate to promote legislation supporting youth. She is often recognized as an authority on the topic of Suicide Prevention and has appeared on several radio shows and podcasts, and interviews and speaks at conferences across the country.

Contact Information for Susan Tellone

[email protected]

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

Jen

www.mindsetnj.com -Website

@mindsetjen-Instagram

@mindsetconnectionpod-TikTok

Cindy

www.mindfulnessconnection.com-Website

@mindfulnssconnection-Instagram

@mindsetconnctionpod-TikTok

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

Podcast available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube

This podcast is produced, recorded, and edited at Black Swallowtail Studios in Eatontown, NJ.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to and watching our ninth episode! We are grateful to move into 2025 with the ability to showcase the extraordinary work of our guests. We hope they will keep you inspired to keep showing up for yourself, no matter where you are on your wellness journey. Keep showing up for us as well, as your comments and feedback are so important to the design of our show. We hope you greet 2025 with enthusiasm, an open heart, and a beginner’s mind.

The Changemaker for Holistic Connections in the Body

Heather Natoli- Owner of The Fascia Clinic

Heather Natoli is a homeopathic practitioner, licensed massage therapist and fascia bodyworker, a certified fascia fitness professional and certified Restore Your Core teacher. She is on a journey to empower and encourage individuals to take their healing back into their own hands by understanding their stress patterns and body's needs through deep inner connection. As the creator of the Feeling Fascia method, she helps practitioners and clients understand and work with the body-mind connection in a revolutionized way. Heather is a volunteer co-leader of a 4H group, Wildlings, where she guides students in grades Kindergarten through12 to learn about the natural world around us and reflect on similarities and connections with ourselves and our communities. Heather also has four children who she is currently homeschooling.

Contact Information for Heather Natoli

thefasciaclinic.org

Social Media:@thefasciaclinic

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

Jen

www.mindsetnj.com-Website

@mindsetjen-Instagram

@mindsetconnectionpod-TikTok

Cindy

www.mindfulnessconnection.com-Website

@mindfulnssconnection-Instagram

@mindsetconnctionpod-TikTok

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

Podcast available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube

This podcast is produced, recorded, and edited at Black Swallowtail Studios in Eatontown, NJ.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast, where we showcase everyday changemakers doing extraordinary things in the field of mental health and wellness. Thank you for checking our our 8th episode. We hope you will continue to be inspired and empowered by our guests and the incredible work they are doing. We thank you for allowing us to be a part of your wellness journey. 

The Changemakers for Serving Youth and the Community:

 Rodney Salomon and Mychal Mills-Co-Founders of KYDS Konscious Youth Development & Service, a non-profit organization. 

KYDS is an organization that transforms lives and communities through innovative, holistic programming. Services are designed to cultivate resilience, foster social-emotional learning, and promote heart coherence using trauma-informed tools and mindfulness practices.

With a strong commitment to making a positive difference, KYDS has already impacted over 35,000 + youth, 9,000 educators, 200+ institutions and countless community members throughout NJ. Their collaborative efforts have paved the way for individuals of all ages to unlock their full potential and thrive.

As highly-trained professionals, Rodney and Mychal have received Masters degrees from Monmouth University, in addition to earning numerous certifications in yoga and mindfulness practices. Together, they're driving meaningful change to build a better world, one person at a time.  Rodney has been recognized for his 

transformational community work, having been honored by the NAACP, City of Asbury Park, and Senator Vince Gopal. He has been the keynote speaker for NJEA's Hope & Healing Conference and the Department of Health's Department of Resiliency and Stockton University's Virtual event, The Peoples Gathering, talking about trauma and healing-informed practices.

Mychal is also a lead facilitator with the Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL) team, contributing significantly to the advancement of educational leaders nationwide. Mychal has also demonstrated exceptional leadership in prior roles, notably with Feeding America Food Banks, Boys & Girls Club, and other community-driven initiatives.

By the end of this session, these two incredible men will leave you feeling  inspired to be both a better person and a more active member of your community. 

Contact Information for Rodney Salomon and Mychal Mills:

Website: www.konscious.org

Social Media: @kyds_nj

Podcast: Konscious Educators

Community Center: 631 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com-Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com-Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This podcast is recorded, produced, and edited by the incredible team at Black Swallowtail Studios in Eatontown. 

Remember to Pause Breathe Respond

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to our seventh episode. We hope you are continuing to learn from the extraordinary people we are showcasing, and hope they are helping you to become a better and more resilient version of yourself.  In every episode, we will introduce you to amazing people who are truly making a difference in the mental health and wellness space, and want to continue making positive change. Greet each guest with a beginner’s mind and an open heart.

The Changemaker for Women’s Health and Wellness

Dr. Emily Bessemer, PT, DPT, PRPC, CLT-LANA, ERYT- 200, Founder of Embodied Physical Therapy

Dr. Emily Bessemer is a pelvic floor physical therapist who specializes in allowing patients to connect to their womb spaces, pelvic floors, cores and the energetic fields. 

Dr. Emily graduated in 2014 with her doctorate in physical therapy. She continued her advancement of studies in women’s health through her certificate programs in pelvic floor rehabilitation, lymphatic massage, craniosacral therapy, reiki master teacher, yoga trainings (accumulating 1,000+ hours of study in varieties of practices), and meditation training/studies that allow her the ability to integrate mindfulness, meditation and movement into her everyday teachings and work.

Dr. Emily’s first community cultivation began in 2015 when she started her yoga teachings for the public. Throughout her practice, she noticed a need for the integration of energetics, movement and mindfulness in the physical healing practices of the pelvic floor work. She opened EmBodied Physical Therapy in 2021. Since the opening of EmBodied, over 1,000+ women have come through its doors for personal expansion, integration and healing in the form of classes, sessions and working with Dr. Emily. Her belief is we all expand and grow together. Dr. Emily’s goal is for her clients to find their own healing, through the techniques, movement and energy work she offers to them.  Her work is magical and so was her energy throughout this episode. 

Contact Information for Dr. Emily Bessemer: 

Embodiedphysicaltherapy.com

Social Media:@embodiedphysicaltherapy

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for tuning in for our sixth episode. We are proud of this show and the people we continue to feature. As in every episode, we are continuing to introduce people who are doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. We hope you will be inspired and empowered by the work these  individuals are doing. We certainly are.

The Changemaker for Creating Community

Maryann Rappa- Director for the Sand Hills Community Wellness Center, Certified Life Coach

Maryann Rappa started her career in the fields of Business and Medical Administration, but never felt it was the right fit. She always had a calling to be of service to others, and eventually found herself applying for the Peace Corps, and training for Hospice. When Maryann became a Life Coach, she partnered with an organization that gave her an opportunity to learn how to run events and plan events. When her church had an idea to form a Wellness Center, Maryann had an idea to create a community that offered unique and creative services, and was welcoming to all. Take a look at the schedule of events, and you will see why Maryann is a visionary.

Contact Information for Maryann Rappa:

Social Media: Sand Hills Community Wellness Center-FaceBook

www.sandhillswellness.com

[email protected]

[email protected]

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to our fifth episode. We are continuing to explore change and learn from everyday people doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. In every episode, we will introduce you to magnetic and compassionate people who are dedicated to improving the lives of others. Join us and learn about how these amazing individuals may help you take one small step towards creating a stronger, healthier, and more resilient version of yourself.

The Changemaker for Tackling Tough Topics with Teens and Youth

Shawna Lougee - Marketing Director for The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide and Lead U.

Shawna Lougee, Marketing Manager for Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide and Lead U, began her marketing journey unexpectedly at age 21. Recruited to be a Bud Light Girl for a local beer distributor, Shawna fell into the world of brand management and promotional marketing. Although she pivoted from her early childhood education career into the marketing world, Shawna always had an incredible passion for kids. She was always the designated babysitter, worked at a daycare and even worked as a nanny. She always enjoyed being around children and watching their personalities shine. 

With her current position at SPTS, Shawna gets the best of both worlds. She enjoys using her marketing skills to bring awareness to the importance of mental health, connecting with inspiring people, and making an impact on today’s youth. 

Shawna has struggled with her own mental health in the past. At age 27, Shawna lost her boyfriend unexpectedly, which changed her life dramatically, and sent her down a  difficult road as she struggled with complex feelings of intense grief, anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Today, Shawna works to turn her pain into beauty through her work with SPTS, her poetry, and the impact she hopes to make on others along the way. We hope her message and her energy will have an impact on you as well. 

Contact Information for Shawna Lougee:

Social Media: @shawnaxloug, @sptsusa, @lead_u_

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to our fourth episode. Our mission is  to explore change and learn from everyday people doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. In every episode, we will introduce you to incredible people who are committed to making  the lives of others better. Join us and learn about how these amazing individuals may help you take one small step towards creating a stronger, healthier, and more resilient version of yourself.

The Changemaker for Mental Health in the School Systems 
Suzanne Keller, MSL, LSW, Clinician for The Source, A School-Based Youth Services Program at Red Bank Regional High School

Suzanne has the energy, vision,  and generosity of spirit of three people. In this episode, she talks of the extremely important work she has done to keep The Source up and running for the past 25 years.

Suzanne's journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Rider University, where she honed her skills in the business world, as a successful Account Executive in the cosmetic industry. She began as a clinician at  The SOURCE, a School Based Youth Services Program at Red Bank Regional High School, and was quickly propelled into a leadership role as the Program Director. She currently holds two leadership roles: Supervisor of "The SOURCE" and the Inspire Academy.  The space that she has created for students is one of acceptance for all. Suzanne has also written countless grants, and continues to raise money for ongoing scholarships for students, and any other projects that benefit students.  If there is a student in need, she will uncover every resource to ensure that students get the tools to succeed.  

Contact Information for Suzanne Keller: www.thesourcerbrhs.org

Social Media: @thesourcerbrhs

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to our third episode. Our mission is to provide a place to explore change and learn from everyday people doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. In every episode, we will introduce you to incredible changemakers who are making a difference-one step at a time. Join us and learn about how these amazing people may help you take one small step towards creating a stronger and more resilient version of yourself.

The Changemaker for Those Dealing with Grief and Loss

Lynn Snyder, LPC, Board Certified Art Therapist, Thanatology Fellow

Lynn Snyder was destined to do the work of guiding others who are grieving for a long time, and feels it is her calling to help those who  have lost someone find peace. She is the founder and Executive Director of Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan , NJ. There, she runs groups for children and parents, supervises and trains facilitators, volunteers, and Graduate Students. Lynn also provides education in local schools and the community, and has designed a graduate course on children’s grief for Monmouth University. Lynn is involved in research involving grief and the impact of grief group counseling. During the Covid Pandemic, Lynn authored a Children’s book, Little Ruby’s Big Change: Talking with Children about loss. Lynn describes herself as, “Someone who gets things done.” She is not afraid to ask questions, pivots to get the job accomplished, and does not take no for an answer. We described her as a total “Badass,” and we hope that she will inspire you to embrace grief and loss with respect, dignity, support, and a good dose of humor.  

Contact Information for Lynn Snyder: Commongroundgriefcenter.org

Social Media:@commongroundgriefcenter

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

Thank you for listening to our second episode. Our mission is to provide a place to explore the journey through change and learn from everyday people doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. In every episode, we will introduce you to incredible changemakers who are making a difference-one step at a time. Join us and learn about how these amazing people may help you take one small step towards creating a stronger and more resilient version of yourself.

The Changemaker for Service to Others

F. Thomas Crawley. Ed.D, LPC, NCC

Dr. Crawley is a man of many careers. He has spent decades of his life giving to others as a teacher, School Counselor, Assistant Principal, Superintendent of Schools, College Professor, Firefighter, EMT, Army Veteran, Councilman and Licensed Professional Counselor.  Despite the stress that comes with all of these jobs, Dr Crawley reported that he has been able to stay mostly calm throughout his career. He is someone who has remained curious about life, and has always been willing to try new things. Dr. Crawely told us that stepping out of some of his high impact jobs allowed him to, “Turn down the noise,” and focus on what truly brings him joy-his wife, family, and his many grandchildren.  He is someone who has seen the best and the worst of people, and we hope he inspires you to invite curiosity into your life and connect with new passions and interests-no matter where you are in your wellness journey.  

Contact Information for Dr. Crawley: 908-433-8001

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com - Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com - Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp

This episode of The Mindset Connection podcast was recorded at Black Swallowtail Studios.

Welcome to the Mindset Connection Podcast!

We are excited to bring you our very first episode.  Our mission is to provide a place to explore the journey through change and learn from everyday people doing extraordinary things in the mental health and wellness space. In every episode, we will introduce you to incredible changemakers who are making a difference-one step at a time. Join us and learn about how these amazing people may help you take one small step towards creating a stronger and more resilient version of yourself.

The Law Enforcement Changemaker

Retired Police Captain Robert J. Dikun, Esq.

Captain Robert Dikun is the epitome of a person centered advocate. His decorated career in law enforcement, teaching, and coaching athletes speaks volumes about the work he has done to change the lives of so many.  He talks about seeing a need, making a plan, and then adjusting, what he calls “the process”, to serve the person he is working with. He relies on focus, structure, perseverance and having “100 other ways” to get something done.  He is a life-long learner who we hope inspires you by his drive to connect with people and guide them to be the best at what they do. Bob is making the world a calmer and happier place by aiding people in their quest for purpose.

Contact Information for Captain Dikin: [email protected]

Contact Information for Hosts, Jennifer Clearwaters and Cynthia O’Connell:

www.mindsetnj.com-Website for Jen

www.mindfulnessconnection.com-Website for Cindy

@theelevationprinciples-YouTube channel for the book, The Elevation Principles

The Elevation Principles is available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1665307099?ref=myi_title_dp