The Dr. Random podcast

This episode of the Dr. Random Podcast features host Dr. Sarah Laverone in a candid, heartfelt return conversation with Dr. Karin Luise, a PhD-trained therapist and spiritual guide. The ~86-minute discussion explores modern dating, singleness, relationships, and masculine/feminine dynamics.

Both women share vulnerably: Dr. Sarah on being single in her 40s (post-doctorate, no children, desiring authentic love but avoiding apps), and Dr. Karin on two marriages, divorces, infertility, motherhood of three, and 12+ years single while coaching reinvention.

Key topics include:

The tone is warm, empathetic, and uplifting, blending psychology, faith, and real-life stories. It ends with mutual encouragement and hope for love—ideal for anyone navigating dating, heartbreak, or personal growth.

In this powerful episode of the Dr. Random Podcast, Dr. Sarah sits down with Dr. Kathy Platoni, a retired U.S. Army colonel and clinical psychologist with over four decades of experience specializing in combat stress, PTSD, and trauma among military personnel and first responders. Drawing from her extensive career in both military and civilian practice, Dr. Platoni shares firsthand insights into the psychological realities of serving in combat zones, the intense pressures faced by soldiers, and the long-term impact of traumatic stress.

The conversation explores the unique mental health challenges experienced by veterans, law enforcement officers, and first responders, as well as the importance of community awareness and support. Dr. Platoni also discusses her work with SWAT teams, her role with the American Institute of Stress and Combat Stress Magazine, and the critical need for effective coping strategies such as tactical breathing to help manage high-intensity stress environments.

Dr. Platoni reflects on her personal experiences in the military, including surviving the 2009 Fort Hood massacre, and explains how that event strengthened her commitment to helping others who face trauma in the line of duty. This episode offers a profound look into resilience, service, and the ongoing mission to support those who protect and serve.

Dr. Sarah interviews Aaron Silverman, co-founder and executive director of the Ari Foss Foundation, about his organization that helps families dealing with stillbirth and neonatal loss. Aaron shares the deeply personal story of losing his son Ari during birth in 2014 and how that tragedy led to creating a foundation that provides crucial financial assistance for cremations and funerals.

• The shocking statistic: 1 in 106 pregnancies end in stillbirth or neonatal loss
• How the foundation fills a critical gap by providing immediate financial assistance without paperwork barriers
• The emotional and logistical challenges families face when leaving the hospital without their baby
• Why Aaron created brochures for hospital folders to proactively reach grieving families
• The importance of physical presence over words when supporting someone through grief
• How therapy helped Aaron learn he could feel both happy and sad simultaneously
• The foundation's expansion plans across South Carolina's four perinatal regions
• Their memorial walk events that build community among families who've experienced loss

Resources mentioned: MUSC and Roper St. Francis hospitals, Ari Foss Foundation website, memorial walks at Park Circle, cremation and funeral financial assistance program, education and support program

Dr. Sarah hosts attorney and Chief Performance Officer Nermin Jasani to discuss legal operations consulting and how it transforms law firm efficiency. They explore the business side of running successful law firms, from hiring strategies to technology adoption and workplace culture management.

Resources mentioned: "Die with Zero" book, Behind Closed Doors networking group, various legal software systems including MyCase and Outlook

In this episode of the Dr. Random Podcast, Dr. Sarah sits down with artist and Web3 consultant Fer Caggiano, author of NFTs 101, to explore the evolving world of NFTs and digital art. They discuss how blockchain technology impacts artistic ownership, royalties, copyright, and the preservation of both contemporary and ancient works.

Fer shares her journey from traditional exhibitions to the NFT space, explains common misconceptions and scams, and offers insight into how artists can protect their work in the digital age. This episode is a thoughtful look at art, technology, and the future of creative legacy.

Dr. Sarah explores the remarkable partnership between Benjamin Franklin and George Washington through Edward J. Larson's Pulitzer Prize-winning book "Franklin and Washington: The Founding Partnership." This episode reveals the untold story of how these two founding fathers' unique friendship and collaboration shaped the birth of America.

• Washington's early life as a self-educated surveyor and his miraculous survival in battle
• How Washington's topographical knowledge gave him strategic advantages against the British
• Franklin's journey from candle maker's son to scientist, inventor, and diplomat
• The crucial role Franklin played securing French support and funding for the Continental Army
• Washington's leadership during pivotal battles including Trenton and Princeton
• Franklin's inventions and refusal to patent them for the common good
• Their shared Christian faith and vision for religious tolerance
• The Constitutional Convention and Washington's reluctant acceptance of the presidency
• How both men prioritized the nation's needs over personal ambition

Resources mentioned: Edward J. Larson (Pepperdine University professor), "Franklin and Washington: The Founding Partnership," Daughters of American Revolution, Philadelphia historical sites, Constitutional Convention location

Dr. Sarah welcomes travel advisor and longtime friend Marissa Alejandra for an inspiring conversation on how travel can transform the way we see ourselves and the world. From solo international adventures to thoughtfully planned multi-city trips, Marissa shares expert insights on traveling with intention, confidence, and ease.

Travel as Transformation

Together, they explore the power of solo travel, why working with a travel advisor matters, how intention setting shapes meaningful experiences, and practical tips for navigating international destinations safely and stress-free.

If you’ve been dreaming about your next adventure—or waiting for the “right time” to travel—this episode is your sign to go for it.

✨ Adventure, intention, and real-life travel wisdom await. ✨

Resources mentioned: Borghese Gardens and Galleries in Rome, Vatican and Sistine Chapel, Charles de Gaulle vs Orly airports in Paris, Fora Travel platform, travel insurance options

Dr. Sarah interviews Derick Zwerneman, founder and director of Serve Source, who shares his journey from Austin firefighter to disaster response leader. Derek explains how a career-ending injury in 2008 led him to become an outreach pastor and eventually create Serve Source, a faith-based disaster response coordination network. The conversation covers Derick's personal transformation, the founding of Serve Source after responding to local flooding, and how the organization now coordinates major disaster relief efforts nationally and internationally.

Resources mentioned: Serve Source website, DRRN 2025 conference in Birmingham, ATX Outreach Connection, Celebration Church, partnerships with Niagara Water and BioLite, Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast

In this cosmic-themed episode, Dr. Sarah sits down with transformational speaker and spiritual intuitive Christopher Marsala for a deep and expansive conversation about astrology, the cosmos, and the connection between celestial patterns and the human experience. Christopher shares historical insights—from the Magi and the Star of Bethlehem to the Founding Fathers’ fascination with astrology—while offering a modern lens on planetary influence, free will, and personal purpose. Together they explore how the stars can illuminate our inner lives, guide spiritual growth, and help us better understand the “written in the stars” moments that shape us.

In this episode of the Dr. Random podcast, Dr. Sarah sits down with professional dog trainer Susan Marett of Purely Positive Dog Training to explore the fascinating world of canine behavior. Susan shares insights on misunderstood dog signals, common anxiety cues and what owners often overlook in everyday interactions. She also discusses dog park dynamics, separation anxiety breakthroughs and her own lively crew of rescue pups. Plus, Dr. Sarah reflects on her training journey with Ava and the importance of compassionate, positive training methods. A warm, insightful conversation for every dog lover.