Recovery Advocate Network: Coffee & Conversation

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation with Recovery Advocate Network. I am your host, Ange, and I welcome you to Episode number 79. This is part 2 of our Eating Disorder Series. Last week, in Episode 77, Kinsey shared her journey healing from an eating disorder.

This week, JD Ouellette, an educator and director of lived experience for a virtual eating disorder program called Equip, shares her personal experience with her daughter's battle with anorexia nervosa. She also discusses her work in coaching families and providing evidence-based treatment. Ouellette emphasizes the importance of understanding that eating disorders can be rooted in something specific or have no clear cause. She also highlights the strong genetic component of eating disorders. Ouellette stresses the need for personalized treatment and the availability of various treatment options for individuals seeking help. Additionally, she acknowledges the value of shared connections and support in navigating the challenges of eating disorders.

JD Ouellette also discusses the challenges and complexities of navigating the insurance system for eating disorder treatment. She emphasizes the importance of being proactive and creative in finding coverage and support. JD also highlights the need for better education and awareness among healthcare professionals about eating disorders. JD encourages individuals and families to advocate for themselves and seek help, reminding them that recovery is possible.

About the Guest:

Today's guest is JD Ouellette, an expert with experience in eating disorders, peer mentoring, parenting, and life. After fighting to save her loved one's life from an eating disorder, she has learned what is needed to get a loved one well with specific skills and training. After her daughter went through a successful treatment that JD was forever grateful for, she decided to pay it forward by volunteering to mentor other parents of children beginning treatment. Once the college JD worked at as an administrator closed in 2018, she decided to devote herself full time to building her knowledge of eating disorders, mentoring parents or other caregivers who have a loved one going through an eating disorder, co-founded and admin the online community International Eating Disorders Family Support and World Eating Disorders Action Day and is a board member for Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders. She uses her knowledge and expertise to give families the best chance to help, heal, and flourish in the aftermath of an eating disorder.

As a reminder, at the heart of RAN's mission is the urgent need to support individuals dedicated to their recovery journey but facing barriers due to insurance loopholes. With your help, we're on the verge of funding our first bridge grant, providing crucial financial assistance to those in need. Regardless of size, your contribution is crucial in changing and saving lives. We're so grateful to have you as part of our community.

Guest Links:

• https://equip.health/
• https://www.tiktoc.com/@equiphealth
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdouellette
• https://www.facebook.com/JDOuellettePeerCoaching
• https://susannahfox.com/2021/08/06/peer-health-playbooks/.
• https://wellbeingtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/WBT_Family-Parity-Guide-FINALJune18.pdf
• https://www.jdouellette.com/
• https://www.feast-ed.org/
• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/anorexia-may-be-linked-to-metabolism-a-genetic-analysis-suggests/
• https://www.adaptedtofamine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/guisinger-an-pr-2003.pdf

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

#BeBraveBeBadass. www.AngelaGillNelms.com

Keywords:

JD Ouellette, educator, director of lived experience, virtual eating disorder program, Equip, anorexia nervosa, coaching families, evidence-based treatment, genetic component, personalized treatment, modalities, shared connections, support, eating disorders, challenges, treatment options, nutrition, weight gain, recovery, well-nourished brain, therapy, family-based treatment, supportive environment, anorexia, reward-resistant, punishment-sensitive, insurance coverage, insurance system, support, education, awareness, healthcare professionals, recovery, peer support, advocate, help

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation's "Between the Lines" Blog Club Series. This is episode #78, where Tara Karsian will read Joshua Young's blog post entitled "Resilience and Second Chances." Tara has appeared in over 100 television and film projects over her career, guest starring in shows such as NYPD Blue, Desperate Housewives, CSI and Prison Break to name a few, but she is probably best known for her recurring roles playing Liz Dade on ER, Chef Bertie on American Horror Story and of course playing Gayle Burns on The Morning Show. Tara is a supporter of the Motion Picture and Television Fund which supports the entertainment community in living and aging well, with dignity and purpose, and in helping each other in times of need.

Guest Links:

• https://mptf.com/

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/79917801/admin/feed/posts/

About the Author:

Joshua is an Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and is the National Operations Manager for Commercial Real Estate. He has spent over 3 decades in banking, primarily in the finance space, working in Sales, Credit, Portfolio Management, Technology, and Operations. He is a public speaker for JPMorgan Chase, speaking to audiences about Quality Control, Communication, and On-Time Delivery. Joshua has also spent many years on non-profit boards, most recently terming out as a Board Member for Make-A-Wish (Orange County/Inland Empire).

Joshua is the author of "Craving Recovery," which describes his firsthand experience in a treatment facility and life afterward, and "Craving Identity." An avid writer, Joshua already has another book on the way and writes blogs for Recovery Advocate Network on various topics, ranging from mental health disorders to childhood trauma and recovery. He also speaks at numerous recovery and treatment centers and support groups and is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Joshua resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, and loves to spend time with his wife, four kids, and two dogs. He is also a PA Announcer for the San Juan Hills High School Football program.

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation with Recovery Advocate Network. I am your host, Ange, and I welcome you to Episode number 77.

So, what did we talk about? A topic near and dear to my heart – Eating Disorders.

Our guest, Kinsey Dalbec, shared her personal story. At the age of 17, in her senior year of high school, she developed anorexia nervosa. This happened after she and her friends decided to embark on a "healthy eating makeover," which is a common teen dieting ritual. Unfortunately, Kinsey was unaware that she was genetically predisposed to developing anorexia. As a result of her dieting, she became very sick very quickly. However, she was fortunate to receive early and aggressive Family-Based Treatment (FBT), which helped her in her recovery journey. Kinsey is now passionate about spreading awareness of her experience and the possibility of achieving full and lasting recovery.

In this conversation, we discussed Kinsey's journey to recovery from anorexia. We delved into the initial triggers of her eating disorder and the role of family involvement in treatment. We will also explore the effectiveness of therapies such as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Kinsey emphasizes the importance of education and awareness around eating disorders and address the stigma surrounding them. Additionally, she will share her personal growth and the positive impact of recovery on her life.

Kinsey emphasizes the hope of full recovery.

Let's look at her recovery!

Kinsey graduated from college with degrees in psychology and criminal justice, and during her career in Law Enforcement, Kinsey began to work on her master's in counseling psychology. She is currently finishing her practicum as a therapist trainee to become a Marriage and Family Therapist, with a goal to work in the eating disorder field. Kinsey is joyfully married to her high school crush, has an adorable toddler daughter, and is currently pregnant with her second child, a son.

Guest Links:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinsey-dalbec-a70aa8102/
• Facebook: Kinsey Dalbec
• Instagram: Kinseydalbec

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

#BeBraveBeBadass. www.AngelaGillNelms.com

Keywords:

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation's "Between the Lines" Blog Club Series. This is episode #76, where Gregory Jbara will read Joshua Young's blog post entitled "A Journey Through Dual Addiction and Recovery." Gregory's journey into the arts began with a solid foundation in musical theater at The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance, where he was a founding and original class member of the Musical Theatre Program. His commitment to his craft led him to The Juilliard School Drama Division, where he earned his BFA in 1986 as a member of Group 15. Gregory is an esteemed actor with a dynamic career in film, television, and theater. His versatility as an actor is evident in his wide-ranging roles across different mediums. Although he has had numerous roles on television, one of his most notable is as DCPI Garrett Moore on the hit CBS series Blue Bloods, which you can watch Friday nights at 10PM. In the realm of film, most recently his talent shines through in his role as the Senate Hearing Chairman Magnuson in Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer." The stage, however, remains a significant part of Gregory's career. His performance in "Billy Elliot the Musical" earned him the 2009 Tony Award© for Best Featured Actor in a Musical, along with the Drama Desk Award© and Outer Critics Circle Award©. His upcoming work also includes the feature film directorial debut for Adam Seidel's (sydel's) "Original Sound," set to premiere this fall in New York City. We want to thank Gregory for taking the time to volunteer with RAN and to read for us.

Guest Links:

• https://www.gregoryjbara.com/

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/79917801/admin/feed/posts/

About the Author:

Joshua is an Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and is the National Operations Manager for Commercial Real Estate. He has spent over 3 decades in banking, primarily in the finance space, working in Sales, Credit, Portfolio Management, Technology, and Operations. He is a public speaker for JPMorgan Chase, speaking to audiences about Quality Control, Communication, and On-Time Delivery. Joshua has also spent many years on non-profit boards, most recently terming out as a Board Member for Make-A-Wish (Orange County/Inland Empire).

Joshua is the author of "Craving Recovery," which describes his firsthand experience in a treatment facility and life afterward, and "Craving Identity." An avid writer, Joshua already has another book on the way and writes blogs for Recovery Advocate Network on various topics, ranging from mental health disorders to childhood trauma and recovery. He also speaks at numerous recovery and treatment centers and support groups and is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Joshua resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, and loves to spend time with his wife, four kids, and two dogs. He is also a PA Announcer for the San Juan Hills High School Football program.

Tamara Ridge, LMFT, discusses her journey as a trauma survivor and therapist and how she developed the Trauma Erase Method to help others heal from trauma. She explains the difference between complex PTSD and PTSD, and the impact of trauma on everyday life and relationships. Tamara shares her four-phase approach to healing trauma, which includes calming the body, soothing emotions, healing trauma responses, and recovering from the impact of trauma. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in the healing process.

This conversation highlights the importance of healing from trauma and finding joy in life. Tamara shares her transition from trauma-focused work to focusing on joy and creating the Joyful Alliance. We also emphasize the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and choosing the right people to surround oneself with.

Guest Links:

• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joyful_creativity
• https://www.youtube.com/c/TamaraRidgeTraumaRecoverySpecialist
• http://www.centerforhealingtrauma.com/
• https://www.dontholdyourpee.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CenterforHealthyRelationships/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamararidgeart/

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

#BeBraveBeBadass. www.AngelaGillNelms.com

Keywords:

trauma, complex PTSD, healing, trauma responses, joy, mindfulness, self-awareness, body history, exceptions, gratitude, supportive relationships, self-care, boundaries, Joyful Alliance

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation's "Between the Lines" Blog Club Series. This is episode #74, where Elizabeth Dennehy will read Joshua Young's blog post entitled "Turning Pain into Passion." Elizabeth is a classically trained actress and proud daughter of actor Brian Dennehy and mother of actor Jack Lancaster, Elizabeth is probably best known for playing Lieutenant Commander Shelby on Star Trek: The Next Generation. She has also appeared in numerous films and television shows such as The Game, Gattaca, Red Dragon, Hancock, Charmed, and Seinfeld to name a few. You can See Elizabeth in the upcoming Western - Horizon, an American Saga, starring and directed by Kevin Costner. Elizabeth is an admitted Shakespeare geek, who loves to travel, sing, teach, and support young artists.

You can learn more about Elizabeth in the show notes.

"Between The Lines" episodes are written by guests who prefer to use their written voice instead of their interview voice to share their stories.

As a reminder, the views expressed in any blog are the views of the author, and the purpose is to provide a safe place for the author's voice to be heard.

So, what are we waiting for? Fill up your coffee, sit back and let's get started.

Guest Links:

• Elizabeth also supports: Independent Shakespeare Co (https://www.iscla.org/) & The Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (https://lachsafoundation.org/)
• You can see Elizabeth in: Horizon, An American Saga (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYsReoZMj1k)

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/79917801/admin/feed/posts/

About the Author:

Joshua is an Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and is the National Operations Manager for Commercial Real Estate. He has spent over 3 decades in banking, primarily in the finance space, working in Sales, Credit, Portfolio Management, Technology, and Operations. He is a public speaker for JPMorgan Chase, speaking to audiences about Quality Control, Communication, and On-Time Delivery. Joshua has also spent many years on non-profit boards, most recently terming out as a Board Member for Make-A-Wish (Orange County/Inland Empire).

Joshua is the author of "Craving Recovery," which describes his firsthand experience in a treatment facility and life afterward, and "Craving Identity." An avid writer, Joshua already has another book on the way and writes blogs for Recovery Advocate Network on various topics, ranging from mental health disorders to childhood trauma and recovery. He also speaks at numerous recovery and treatment centers and support groups and is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Joshua resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, and loves to spend time with his wife, four kids, and two dogs. He is also a PA Announcer for the San Juan Hills High School Football program.

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation with Recovery Advocate Network. I am your host, Ange, and I welcome you to Episode number 73.

So, what did we talk about? My FAVORITE topics Leadership & Culture!

Coach Kitch and I had a conversation about his inspiring journey from being expelled from school in third grade to becoming a college coach, launching his own business, the Edge Leadership Academy, and pursuing his PhD. He emphasized the significance of leadership and culture in achieving success and shared his five C's of leadership - character, consistency, commitment, creativity, and communication.

Coach Kitchens believes leadership is built, not born, and aims to empower others to become leaders in their respective fields. During our discussion, we delved into the topic of leadership, character, and cultivating strong teams. We underscored the importance of vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and apologizing as a leader. We also stressed the value of getting to know team members as individuals and understanding their communication styles. David shared his insights on creating a positive team culture, and the significance of consistency and documentation in problem-solving.

More about David – Coach Kitch:

David "Coach Kitch" is the Founder of Edge Leadership Academy. He is a former Division 1 Coach turned entrepreneur and a PhD Candidate with a master's degree in sport psychology. Outside the classroom, he has a decade of experience building leaders, culture, and mindsets at the highest levels of sports and business. He has authored 3 books, including an international best-seller. As an award-winning speaker, consultant, and coach, Coach Kitch is trusted by 100+ CEOs, coaches, and high performers to help them lead and win in business, athletics, and life.

As a reminder, at the heart of RAN's mission is the urgent need to support individuals dedicated to their recovery journey but facing barriers due to insurance loopholes. With your help, we're on the verge of funding our first bridge grant, providing crucial financial assistance to those in need. Regardless of size, your contribution is crucial in changing and saving lives. We're so grateful to have you as part of our community.

Guest Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachdkitch/
• Instagram: @CoachDkitch
• TikTok: @Coachdkitch
• Twitter: @CoachDkitch
• Facebook: @EdgeLeadershipAcademy
• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/built-not-born-podcast/id1538583934
• https://www.edgeleadershipacademy.com/newsletter-sign-up
• Newsletter - https://www.edgeleadershipacademy.com/newsletter-sign-up
• Coaches Academy Event - https://www.edgeleadershipacademy.com

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

#BeBraveBeBadass. www.AngelaGillNelms.com

Keywords:

leadership, culture, success, identity, habit formation, COVID-19, character, consistency, commitment, creativity, communication, leadership, vulnerability, team building, communication, problem-solving, team culture, motivation

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation's "Between the Lines" Blog Club Series. This is episode #72, where we have the pleasure of James Morrison, an accomplished and award-winning stage actor, reading Joshua Young's blog post, "Beyond the Bruises: The Deep Impact of Bullying." James, known for his diverse talents, has directed numerous theater productions, is a published poet, a yoga teacher, and a singer-songwriter. His versatility extends to television, where he has guest-starred on shows such as Law & Order: SVU, Fraser, The X-Files, The West Wing, Six Feet Under, and NCIS: Hawaii. He is well known for his role as CTU Director Bill Buchanan on the hit show "24". Currently, James is performing in a one-man play that he wrote, entitled "Leave Your Fears Here," which touches on fatherhood, powerlessness, human vulnerability, and the very nature of existence. You can learn more about James and "Leave Your Fears Here" in the show notes.

"Between The Lines" episodes are written by guests who prefer to share their stories using their written voice instead of their interview voice. As always, we want to remind you that the views expressed in any blog are solely those of the author. We aim to provide a safe space for their voice to be heard.

Just a quick reminder about the Recovery Advocate Network (RAN). RAN's mission is to support individuals dedicated to their recovery journey but facing challenges due to insurance loopholes. We are on the verge of funding our first bridge grant, which will provide crucial financial assistance to those in need. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in changing and saving lives. We are grateful to have you as part of our community. So, consider visiting our website and clicking the "Donate" button today.

So, what are we waiting for? Fill up your coffee, sit back, relax, and let's get started.

Guest Links:

• https://www.thejamesmorrison.com/lyfh
• https://www.wicaonline.org/events-calendar-view/2024/6/13/leave-your-fears-here-theatre-series-new-works

Donate Today:

• PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40
• Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

• Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]
• Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]
• Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@recoveryadvocatenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryAdvocateNetwork
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Author:

Joshua is an Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and is the National Operations Manager for Commercial Real Estate. He has spent over 3 decades in banking, primarily in the finance space, working in Sales, Credit, Portfolio Management, Technology, and Operations. He is a public speaker for JPMorgan Chase, speaking to audiences about Quality Control, Communication, and On-Time Delivery. Joshua has also spent many years on non-profit boards, most recently terming out as a Board Member for Make-A-Wish (Orange County/Inland Empire).

Joshua is the author of "Craving Recovery," which describes his firsthand experience in a treatment facility and life afterward, and "Craving Identity." An avid writer, Joshua already has another book on the way and writes blogs for Recovery Advocate Network on various topics, ranging from mental health disorders to childhood trauma and recovery. He also speaks at numerous recovery and treatment centers and support groups and is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Joshua resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, and loves to spend time with his wife, four kids, and two dogs. He is also a PA Announcer for the San Juan Hills High School Football program.

In this episode, we interview Dr. Gigi Langer, author of '50 Ways to Worry Less Now.' We discuss the importance of mental wellness, reducing stigma, and raising funds for individuals in need of treatment. Dr. Langer shares her personal journey of overcoming addiction and finding peace through honesty, empowerment, and changing negative thought patterns. We also explore the power of gratitude, appreciating beauty, and using tools like meditation and energy healing to rewire the brain and find inner peace.

In this conversation, we discuss the importance of taking responsibility for our thoughts and the content of our thoughts. We explore various tools and modalities for worry reduction and personal growth, emphasizing the need for commitment and practice. We also touch on the fear of growth and how it can hold us back from living our best lives. Gigi shares insights from her books, '50 Ways to Worry Less Now' and 'Love More Now: Facing Life's Challenges with an Open Heart'.

About the author:

Dr. Gigi Langer. Gigi has earned a Ph.D. in Psychological Studies in Education and an MA in Psychology from Stanford University. Gigi has co-authored five books for educators and written hundreds of articles on professional growth, leading to a successful career. However, she has also faced several personal challenges, such as failed relationships, codependency, and addiction, which she has bravely overcome. Her two books, Worry Less Now and Love More Now, offer guidance on freeing oneself from worry and fear, and how to connect with the wisdom of our true selves during difficult times.

Guest Links:

https://gigilanger.com/

Purchase her books on Amazon - Better yet, watch the full episode to learn how you can get one for a deal!

• Worry Less Now: https://a.co/d/gMbolTT
• Love More Now: https://a.co/d/cpZWDVS

Donate Today:

PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40

Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork

Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]

Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]

Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Host:

Angela Gill Nelms is a co-founder and CEO of Recovery Advocate Network, a non-profit that focuses on mental wellness. Her primary objectives include educating individuals on what wellness truly means, eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health, and helping those who require treatment to find the financial resources to live their best lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Mental wellness should be taken as seriously as physical health.
• Reducing stigma around mental health is crucial for creating a supportive society.
• Honesty and self-awareness are essential for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
• Changing negative thought patterns and rewiring the brain can lead to inner peace.
• Practices like gratitude, appreciating beauty, meditation, and energy healing can help in finding peace and happiness. Taking responsibility for our thoughts is key to finding happiness and peace.
• There are various tools and modalities available for worry reduction and personal growth.
• Commitment and practice are necessary for lasting change and growth.
• The fear of growth can hold us back from living our best lives.
• All is well, even in challenging times.

Welcome back to Coffee and Conversation's "Between the Lines" Blog Club Series. In episode #70, Sharon Lawrence will read Joshua Young's blog post, "Breaking the Silence: From Hidden Abuse to Hopeful Recovery." Sharon may be best known for her multiple Emmy Award-nominated and SAG Award-winning portrayal of Assistant District Attorney Sylvia Costas Sipowicz in NYPD Blue. She also played numerous other roles, from a recurring role as a stay-at-home prostitute in Desperate Housewives to a charming but murderous realtor on Monk. She has also had recurring roles on Ladies Man, Shameless, and, most recently, playing Missy on all three seasons of the Paramount Plus show "Joe Pickett."

An accomplished stage actress, Sharon has appeared in numerous plays, including her solo play, THE SHOT, which she currently performs nationwide. Sharon's performance has been described as "a luminescent performance informing us that sexual and psychological abuse knows no boundaries of economy or class or fame." You can learn more about Sharon and The Shot in the show notes.

"Between The Lines" episodes are written by guests who prefer to share their stories using their written voice instead of their interview voice.

As always, we want to remind you that the views expressed in any blog are solely those of the author. Our aim is to provide a safe space for their voice to be heard. In this episode, we discuss a sensitive topic-domestic violence. If you find yourself feeling distressed, please remember to reach out to your support system. Your well-being is our utmost priority.

Just a quick reminder about the Recovery Advocate Network (RAN). RAN's mission is to support individuals dedicated to their recovery journey but facing challenges due to insurance loopholes. We are on the verge of funding our first bridge grant, which will provide crucial financial assistance to those in need. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in changing and saving lives. We are grateful to have you as part of our community. So, consider visiting our website and clicking the "Donate" button today.

So, what are we waiting for? Fill up your coffee, sit back, and let's get started.

Guest Links:

https://theshotonstage.com/

https://www.instagram.com/sharonelawrence?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Donate Today:

PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=38KWNZSB6A6W2&source=url&fbclid=IwAR1kgmyHxZUxmNrRaru04laLHJWXVZGMH3Bz2sqaGIO0zaqfnng4i0LZU40

Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/recoveryadvocatenetwork

Email: [email protected]

Additional Resources:

Be a Coffee & Conversation Podcast Guest: [email protected]

Submit a Blog Post: [email protected]

Website: www.recoveryadvocatenetwork.org

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAN2Wellness

About the Author:

Joshua is an Executive Director at JPMorgan Chase and is the National Operations Manager for Commercial Real Estate. He has spent over 3 decades in banking, primarily in the finance space, working in Sales, Credit, Portfolio Management, Technology, and Operations. He is a public speaker for JPMorgan Chase, speaking to audiences about Quality Control, Communication, and On-Time Delivery. Joshua has also spent many years on non-profit boards, most recently terming out as a Board Member for Make-A-Wish (Orange County/Inland Empire).

Joshua is the author of "Craving Recovery," which describes his firsthand experience in a treatment facility and life afterward, and "Craving Identity." An avid writer, Joshua already has another book on the way and writes blogs for Recovery Advocate Network on various topics, ranging from mental health disorders to childhood trauma and recovery. He also speaks at numerous recovery and treatment centers and support groups and is passionate about sharing his experience, strength, and hope.

Joshua resides in Laguna Niguel, CA, and loves to spend time with his wife, four kids, and two dogs. He is also a PA Announcer for the San Juan Hills High School Football program.