What if you could calm your mind in under two minutes—without thinking your way there at all? In this episode, Mike Orlowski sits down with breathwork coach Dave Gieselman, who went from addiction to recovery by learning to regulate his nervous system through breath. They unpack how controlling your heart rate calms your brain state, the surprising role of the vagus nerve (and why humming helps), how breathwork can mimic the effects of substances, and how to reach a flow state for sharper focus and creativity. Practical, science-backed tools for anyone navigating anxiety, stress, or burnout.

Main Topics:

• How controlling your heart rate through breath calms the brain

• Dave's journey from addiction to recovery through breathwork

• The vagus nerve, humming, and the parasympathetic relaxation response

• Managing anxiety, stress, decision fatigue, and sleep

• Accessing flow state for creativity, focus, and performance

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro: mental health and breathwork

02:32 - The link between heart rate and brain state

14:37 - Dave's personal journey and transformation

17:02 - The role of breathwork in recovery

20:31 - Types of breathwork and their benefits

27:42 - The vagus nerve and why it matters

28:33 - The power of humming

30:06 - Sympathetic vs. parasympathetic responses

32:45 - Managing stress in a chaotic world

36:00 - Overcoming decision fatigue

41:47 - Why sleep is your number-one lever

45:09 - Accessing flow state through breathwork

53:59 - Discipline over motivation

62:01 - Understanding resistance and flow

68:42 - Breathwork as a tool for transformation

74:07 - Connecting to flow: practical applications

Final thoughts:

Your nervous system is always listening to your breath—which means calm is a skill you can practice, not a mood you wait for. Whether you're facing anxiety, burnout, or just a noisy mind, the tools Dave shares start with something you're already doing. Pick one technique and try it today. Thanks for listening to Mojo, Motivation & Mental Health—choose connection, choose happiness, and get your Mojo Back.

Connect with Mike Orlowski:

Website: http://www.mojomotivates.com

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

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

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mojoworldwide

X: https://x.com/MichaelOrlowski

Dave Gieselman Resources:

Breathwork App: https://bit.ly/3QzaGZW

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-g-limitless/

Breathwork (use code mojo1): https://connecttoflow.com/breathwork

What does it take to rebuild a life after losing everything? In this episode, Chason Forehand shares how he survived years of abuse, addiction, homelessness, and incarceration — and how one life-changing gift, culinary training, set him on a path to founding the Transformation Kitchen. It's an honest conversation about addiction recovery, life after incarceration, paying it forward, and breaking the cycles of poverty that trap so many — and how Chason's programs now offer lifelong healing, skills, and hope across the U.S. and Nicaragua.

In this episode:

·       Chason shares his personal story of trauma, addiction, and resilience

·       The impact of a life-changing gift—culinary training—that shifted his trajectory

·       How the Transformation Kitchen helps individuals break cycles of poverty, addiction, and incarceration

·       The significance of paying it forward and creating community-driven solutions

·       The role of legislation like the Psychological Safety Act in fostering healthier workplaces

·       Unique insights into building sustainable international programs in Nicaragua and the U.S.

·       Practical approaches to mental health, wellness, and leadership development for underserved populations

Connect with Chason Forehand:

·       HR4U Website: https://hr-4u.org/

·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chason-forehand-rcf1222/

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Changing lives with conversation and impact
00:48 - Chason's background: Overcoming childhood trauma and systemic barriers
03:13 - The early years: Family dynamic, abuse, and survival
06:11 - Turning to drugs and homelessness during college years
09:40 - Incarceration and the pivotal moment with a mentor in culinary arts
14:31 - The power of paying it forward: Support from a sober mentor
16:18 - The importance of faith, community, and the 12-step path
18:54 - Building Transformation Kitchen: A model for long-term hope
21:44 - International work: Nicaragua's transformational impact
25:34 - Launching the program in Beacon, NY: Timeline and goals
26:31 - Beyond culinary skills: Life skills, wellness, and leadership
32:50 - Breaking the cycle: How poverty, addiction, and incarceration intertwine
38:30 - Advocating for the Psychological Safety Act and creating fair workplaces
44:12 - Words of encouragement: Hope for those struggling
45:58 - The essence of being a beacon of hope
46:34 - The limitless potential of transformation when given support
47:15 - Connecting with Chason and supporting Transformation Kitchen

Join the movement:
Your kindness can ignite hope and transform communities.

In this heartfelt episode, Bernie DeSantis III shares his personal story of losing his best friend to suicide and how that tragic loss moved him to teach others the warning signs, how to ask the hard question, and how to help someone who's suicidal. Bernie turned grief into action — building virtual events, community, and education around suicide prevention — and offers real guidance for anyone supporting a loved one in crisis or healing as a suicide loss survivor.

Connect with Bernie:

·       Insignia Training: https://insigniatraining.com/

·       Let’s Talk About Suicide Event 8/19/2026:  https://info.insigniatraining.com/aug-lets-talk-about-suicide-registration

·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/badiii/

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction & crisis hotline importance
00:45 - Bernie shares his story of finding his friend
02:14 - The emotional and life-changing impact of the loss
04:36 - Recognizing early warning signs of suicide
06:51 - The moment Bernie found his friend
08:40 - Overcoming grief through education and community support
10:10 - How "Let's Talk About Suicide" events raise awareness
11:45 - The long journey of grief and healing
13:13 - Key warning signs and phrases to watch for
15:04 - Common misconceptions and red flags
16:00 - The structure and purpose of virtual suicide awareness events
17:02 - How engaging virtual events help break stigma
18:16 - Supporting self-regulation and mental wellness practices
19:24 - The importance of direct language in conversations
21:41 - Personal insights on speaking openly about suicidal thoughts
22:46 - Risk factors and demographic insights
26:36 - Practical questions to inspire hope in someone considering suicide
28:45 - The role of community and professional help
29:34 - The scope of Bernie's work with virtual events for various clients
32:10 - What is a death doula and end-of-life conversations
36:09 - How to support someone affected by suicide loss
37:38 - The transformative power of talking about suicide
38:17 - The importance of awareness, education, and community
39:43 - Accessibility of virtual mental health events
41:09 - Final thoughts and encouragement to take action

Remember: Geographic location does not limit access to mental health support. Your life matters. Reach out, and don't be afraid to ask the hard questions. Call or text 988 for help. 911 for Emergencies.

Why the most mental-health-aware generation in history is also the most anxious? In this episode Mike Orlowski & Dr. Andrea Mata explore how gentle parenting and overprotection can backfire, how social media fuels comparison, and why strong relationships may be the single biggest predictor of a long, healthy life. Real, actionable insights for parents, employers, and young adults navigating today's mental health challenges.


Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro: the Gen Z mental health crisis

01:16 - Why Gen Z expects mental health support at work

02:45 - How parenting styles drive youth anxiety

03:15 - Mental health misinformation from social media influencers

04:45 - Life skills: financial literacy and independence

06:04 - Overparenting and its effects on self-reliance

07:13 - Why more young adults live in their parents' basements

08:31 - The cost of not teaching coping skills early

09:37 - Teaching financial literacy through experience

10:47 - Allowance and budgeting: kids and responsibility

12:12 - Building independence in college students

13:18 - Undoing gentle parenting and setting boundaries

14:12 - Discipline, consequences, and why boundaries matter

16:49 - Workplace mental health and business outcomes

22:37 - The loneliness epidemic and its health dangers

29:40 - Social media, comparison anxiety, and body image

37:39 - The health risks of loneliness and disconnection

41:16 - Relationships as the key to health and longevity

49:55 - Strategies for young people facing comparison anxiety

52:14 - Course-correcting overparenting toward independence

52:48 - Talking openly about mental health and expressive journaling

55:01 - Resources and closing words for parents, employers, and individuals

 

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       http://www.mojomotivates.com

·       https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeorlowski/

·       https://www.facebook.com/MOJOMotivates

·       https://www.instagram.com/mike_orlowski/



Connect with Dr. Andrea Mata:

·       https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdremata/

·       https://www.instagram.com/drdremata/

·       https://www.youtube.com/@drdremata

·       https://www.tiktok.com/@drdremata

·       https://andreadmata.com/

·       https://brightspotfamilies.com/

·       https://amzn.to/4giZFWU

In this episode, Mike Orlowski hosts Jackie Lauricella Perry to explore the realities of living with anxiety from childhood, supporting loved ones through health crises, and cultivating radical acceptance. Their candid discussion offers practical insights for navigating invisible illnesses, fostering safe relationships, and transforming mental health challenges into opportunities for growth.

Connect with Mike Orlowski

• Website

• LinkedIn

• Facebook

• Instagram

• TikTok

• X

Connect with Jackie Lauricella-Perry

• Jackie Lauricella Perry's Website

• Instagram - Jackie Lauricella Images

• LinkedIn

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introducing mental health conversations that change lives

00:44 - Guest introduction: Jackie Lauricella Perry's journey

01:11 - Supporting loved ones through brain tumors and health crises

02:12 - Childhood anxiety: signs and early fears

02:38 - Panic attacks in childhood and strange fears

03:03 - Anxiety in young children and internalized fears

03:29 - Athletic training and panic before physical activities

04:25 - Self-internalized pressure and childhood stress

05:01 - Physical responses: numbness, breathing difficulty, night terrors

05:49 - Impact of gut health on anxiety and mental wellness

06:16 - How diet sensitivities affect mental health and body reactions

09:12 - Managing disordered eating and shifting perceptions

10:20 - Personal struggles with binge eating and bulimia

12:34 - Overcoming disordered eating with therapy and support

14:01 - The influence of a friend's sudden passing on anxiety and health fears

17:10 - Therapy, medication, and gut health considerations

18:45 - Jackie’s athletic training background and transition to entrepreneurship

19:26 - Supporting Josh through significant life crises and grief

21:28 - Recognizing depression and providing support in grief

23:26 - Radical acceptance as a foundation of their relationship

26:13 - Boundaries in relationships and acceptance of differences

27:02 - Personal growth through understanding and patience in marriage

28:26 - Not taking external actions personally and practicing compassion

31:47 - The importance of proactive couples therapy for relationship growth

33:48 - Overcoming resistance to therapy and societal perceptions

35:13 - Navigating mental health through pregnancy and body changes

38:18 - Managing mental health and body image alongside motherhood

39:11 - The value of being present and managing fears about motherhood

43:42 - The fleeting nature of time with children and appreciating each stage

44:24 - Jackie’s shift from athletic training to photography after pandemic disruptions

48:53 - Athlete mindset in managing anxiety and accepting life’s rhythm

50:27 - Supporting others with invisible illnesses and mental health struggles

51:45 - The profound impact of radical acceptance on life and motherhood

52:53 - Creating space for loved ones to be fully themselves

54:15 - Final encouragement for seeking help, cultivating relationships, and spreading awareness

Remember:

Invisible illnesses are real and managing mental health while supporting loved ones is a form of strength. Seek help when needed, practice radical acceptance, and prioritize your well-being. Sharing this episode could be a step toward someone else finding support and hope.

Inside the Mind of an Athlete: Mental Health, Performance, and Breaking the Stigma

In this episode of Mojo Motivation and Mental Health, host we discuss the often unseen mental health pressures faced by athletes, from high school to professional levels, and how the sports culture can both contribute to and help heal these struggles. Expert guest Dr. Sam Maniar shares insights on coaching impacts, social media stress, and the importance of mental health support in sports and beyond.  We talk about the hidden mental health challenges, the influence of NIL, coaching styles and more. 

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Connect with Dr. Sam Maniar:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Website
• X

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and show's purpose: addressing mental health in sports
01:12 - The current pressures athletes face in the age of NIL deals and social media
02:41 - Comparing performance pressures in sports and corporate roles
05:08 - Rising mental health struggles and lack of coping skills among athletes
06:46 - Impact of social media negativity and public scrutiny
08:04 - The importance of supportive environments and role of trainers and staff
09:40 - The significance of athlete stories and public figures sharing their struggles
11:27 - Challenges unique to professional sports and confidentiality issues
13:44 - The need for mental health resources and stigma reduction in youth sports
15:01 - Coaching styles and their effects on mental health
16:18 - Signs of mental health issues and how coaches can support athletes
18:10 - Developing supportive coaching teams and communication
19:49 - The importance of mental health professionals in sports teams
22:22 - Injury, recovery, and mental health support for injured athletes
24:53 - Strategies for reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking
27:06 - Organizational efforts to improve mental health care availability
28:38 - The alarming rise of athlete suicides and the importance of ongoing conversations
30:11 - Corporate work: coaching executives to manage stress and lead effectively
40:11 - The link between mental health and motivation, especially during COVID
44:21 - Practical mental health tools: journaling, mindfulness, and managing distractions
52:19 - The myth of choosing between performance and well-being—both are essential
54:38 - Connecting with Dr. Maniar and resources for mental health support

In this episode, Jeff Johnson shares his transformative journey from devastating personal loss to creating Brightn, an AI-driven mental health app. After losing his son to Fentanyl, wife to Alcoholism and mother, Jeff turned his grief into a mission to prevent similar tragedies.

Connect with Jeff Johnston:

·       BrightnApp — AI-powered mental health app focusing on resilience

·       Jeff's book: This One's For You — Jeff's journey through addiction and purpose

·       LinkedIn

·       Twitter – Brightn App

·       Instagram – Brightn App

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introducing Jeff's journey of loss and purpose
02:17 - The mental health epidemic and the need for upstream solutions
05:09 - Shifting focus from symptoms to prevention
06:41 - Jeff’s personal story of childhood, success, and early signs of struggle
08:38 - The impact of misdiagnosis and substance abuse in Seth’s story
10:07 - The profound moment of Seth’s release from prison and subsequent overdose
13:26 - Jeff’s experience with suicidal thoughts and near self-harm
14:44 - Breaking down overwhelming grief into manageable parts
16:05 - Communicating grief to children and the importance of honesty
18:45 - The metaphor of life choices after tragedy – anger vs. love
20:19 - The "fork in the road" moment and Jeff’s commitment to love and hope
21:43 - Overcoming alcoholism and the role of deep introspection
23:26 - Supporting Prudence through sobriety and her death
25:37 - Jeff’s mental health breakdown and the fight for survival
26:53 - The power of psychedelics and reframing painful memories
33:02 - The journey to creating Brightn as a preventative mental health platform
37:44 - The importance of purpose, love, and community in resilience-building
42:53 - How Brightn works: journaling, mood tracking, and AI support
48:13 - Shifting mental health from labeling to empowerment
55:29 - The value of community and connection in healing
60:06 - Practical advice for those facing catastrophic loss and grief
66:24 - The possibility when we reframe stories and focus on hope
70:29 - The message: Prevention, connection, and purpose save lives

Finding Hope and Connection: Jim Rinere’s Journey from Darkness to Light

In this episode, Jim Rinere shares his powerful story of surviving trauma, depression, and a near-fatal suicide attempt. His journey highlights the importance of connection, vulnerability, and redefining masculinity to foster mental health and healing.

Resources & Links

Connect with Jim Rinere:

·       Jim Rinere on TikTok — Supportive videos on mental health

·       Jim Rinere’s Website — Learn more about his journey and programs

·       Amazon: Coffee in the Fridge by Jim Rinere — Purchase the book

·       Instagram

·       LinkedIn

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: The power of connection in mental health
02:24 - Jim’s childhood trauma and its impact on his life
06:28 - The 2005 suicide attempt: a detailed recounting
10:02 - Jim’s recovery journey and how he started talking publicly about mental health
17:09 - Choosing vulnerability over shame & empowering others to seek help
20:04 - Men’s emotional repression and its repercussions
22:53 - Redefining masculinity: blending strength with emotional openness
27:35 - The "suicide cycle" and how repressed anger fuels it
30:01 - Practicing conscious self-forgiveness and managing ego
32:28 - The importance of meditation and mindfulness for mental health
39:34 - Jim’s “Roadmap to Health”: sleep, nutrition, exercise & gratitude
44:05 - Using TikTok as a platform for outreach and support
48:20 - Advice for men struggling with emotional repression and suicidal thoughts
51:27 - The power of connection and having a support system
53:38 - The possibility of hope, healing, and a fulfilling life after crisis
54:42 - Final thoughts: choosing life and living with purpose

Surviving The Curve: Where Jason Planned To Die

Main Topics:

·       The 'curve' and moments of suicidal thoughts

·       Recognizing and fighting the voices of self-doubt ("what ifs")

·       Finding your fire: passion, purpose, and community

·       The power of therapy, medication, and mental health awareness

·       Using the Enneagram for self-awareness and stress management

·       Practical steps: starting small and building momentum

Contact Jason Barnaby:

·       Fire Starters Inc. — Jason Barnaby’s company

·       Jason on LinkedIn

·       Instagram

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: Overcoming mental health struggles and finding your tribe
02:17 - Jason's story: Thoughts of ending his life at the 'curve'
03:54 - Recognizing numbness and emotional detachment
06:45 - The importance of mental health assessments and medical help
08:29 - The impact of starting medication and self-reflection in the mirror
09:34 - The awakening: seeing life in a new light after treatment
11:10 - Sharing struggles publicly and breaking stigma
13:37 - The 'crack in the door' and momentum toward healing
17:54 - How to reframe the negative voices ("voice in your head")
20:00 - Talking back to the "what ifs" and imposter syndrome
22:52 - Fighting self-sabotage and the importance of small wins
25:02 - Finding your fire: passion, purpose, and fan your flame framework
28:21 - The ember inside us and nurturing it into a flame
32:03 - The power of positive feedback and self-awareness
35:44 - Overcoming fear: taking small steps
44:16 - Integrating the Enneagram for personal growth and stress management
48:53 - The core message of Jason's books
50:30 - Common 'what ifs' and insecurities that hold us back
55:18 - Call to action: Seek help, speak your story, and start today
56:44 - Starting with small, achievable goals ("strike the match")
58:34 - Connecting with Jason: LinkedIn and social media links

This episode dives into the alarming suicide rates within the construction industry and explores effective prevention strategies. Sonya Bohmann, executive director of CIASP, shares insights on risks, ongoing efforts, and how industry stakeholders can foster a safer, stigma-free environment.

Resources & Links:

·       Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP)

·       Connected Minds Mental Health Screening Tool

·       211 Social Services Resource

·       Build the Conversation: CIASP Resources

Connect with Sonya Bohmann:

·       LinkedIn

Connect with Mike Orlowski

·       Website

·       LinkedIn

·       Facebook

·       Instagram

·       TikTok

·       X

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to mental health risks in construction industry
02:21 – Why construction workers are at high risk for suicide
04:28 – The catalyst for establishing CIASP in 2018
05:00 – Key statistics prompting industry action
06:14 – Free resources offered by CIASP, including toolbox talks and mental health screenings
08:28 – Overcoming fears around employer confidentiality and utilizing EAPs
10:35 – Personal story of Sonya's connection to suicide prevention
11:41 – Outreach efforts via presentations, podcasts, and webinars
13:23 – How companies can build ongoing mental health programs
15:01 – Understanding 9-8-8 crisis response and support networks
17:57 – Addressing the macho culture and encouraging open conversations
19:31 – The intersection of veteran status and construction-related mental health issues
21:34 – Risks of site-to-site isolation and physical demands on mental well-being
23:28 – Substance use, opioids, and their link to suicide risk
25:11 – Upcoming lived experience video initiative highlighting recovery stories
27:50 – Collaborations and how different organizations amplify the mission
29:12 – Practical advice for struggling workers and supervisors
30:50 – Steps for industry leaders to implement CIASP training
32:47 – Signs of cultural change and growing openness in the industry
34:21 – How to connect with CIASP and access free training and resources
36:09 – Final call to action: breaking the industry’s silence and prioritizing mental health