A Quest for Well-Being

— Music is a remedy of the soul, a bridge between cultures, languages, and a range of emotions. Music Therapy is a clinical and evidenced-based healthcare profession that combines the power of music with skilled therapeutic interventions to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients' abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives. Music therapy also provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. The expressive nature of music can bring self-awareness and insight to individuals who desire increased wellness in their lives, and can be a powerful mode of therapy for anyone interested in exploring their inner world through music. Valeria interviews Alon Yizhak — He is a PLPC clinical counselor and a Board Certified Music Therapist MT-BC based in New Orleans, LA grounded in mindfulness, present based approaches & wisdom traditions. Alon holds a bachelor degree in Psychology from the Open University in Tel-Aviv (2008), associates degree in Music and Movement Therapy from Levinsky College of Music & Education (2012), and MA in Mindfulness Transpersonal Based Clinical Counseling from Naropa university in Boulder, CO (2025). Alon has served as student supervisor and adjunct professor teaching music therapy at Loyola University in New Orleans (2022-2024). His professional and personal focus is to enable space for growth, healing and expansion of awareness through present based approaches, creativity and genuine self-expression. Alon has worked with individuals experiencing mental health challenges, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, substance use and life transitions.In his sessions Alon holds an integrative approach that supports people through present-based and mindfulness practices, music therapy, trauma-informed lens as well as enabling space to re-connect with inner wisdom & resourcing. To learn more about Alon Yizhak and his work, please visit: https://www.alonmusictherapy.com/

— What if reality isn't material at all—but a shared dream, woven by infinite, eternal minds? In James book, The Dream of Matter, he explores the radical idea that our brains are not just organs of survival, but reflections of the soul's deeper activity. If that's true, then the existence of the soul is not only real, but measurable—visible in the patterns of thought, the rhythms of brainwaves, and the coherence or incoherence of our lives. This is more than spiritual speculation. By decoding the mathematics behind mind and matter, the book offers a structured, rational approach to consciousness—showing how personal growth, mental health, and even the future of civilization depends on the same principle: the evolution of mind toward coherence. Mental health, in this light, is not a private luxury but social infrastructure. When minds fracture, families, institutions, and nations fracture with them. Drawing on neuroscience, ontological mathematics, and systems theory, The Dream of Matter reveals how the soul can be approached as rigorously as any science—and why recovering it is essential for both individual well-being and collective survival. From the intimate journey of self-actualization to the emergence of a new social logic, this is a vision of coherence as both healing practice and civilizational compass. Valeria interviews James Croall — He is the author of "The Dream Of Matter: Neuroscience And Decoding The Mathematics Of The Soul." James is a former Silicon Valley cybersecurity leader turned neurotherapy practitioner and the author of the upcoming book The Dream of Matter: Neuroscience and Decoding the Mathematics of the Soul. After years of grappling with attention issues, burnout, and daytime fatigue, James discovered neurotherapy—an experience that profoundly reshaped his brain, his performance, and ultimately, his path. He now specializes in quantitative EEG (QEEG brain mapping), neurostimulation, and applied neurofeedback training. James holds certification as a QEEG technician and is trained in neurofeedback approaches that help clients build healthier brain patterns over time. Drawing from both systems engineering and cutting-edge neuroscience, he helps people manage and overcome symptoms related to focus, stress, mood, and trauma—without relying on medication or traditional talk therapy. His mission is to raise awareness of these science-backed tools, which remain surprisingly unknown to the general public despite their potential to change lives. The Dream of Matter grew out of a convergence between James's technical background, his transformation through neurotherapy, and a lifelong spiritual search for meaning and coherence. The book explores the deep structure of consciousness—arguing that the soul is real, governed by the same elegant mathematics that underlies the physical world, and may even be measurable. To learn more about James Croall and his work, please visit: https://thedreamofmatter.com/ and https://peakmind.health/

— What if the greatest challenges in life were actually opportunities for profound spiritual growth? Many of us are navigating a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, searching for our true purpose and a sense of inner peace. In this episode, Bernice Cruz, a spiritual mentor and teacher who has walked that path herself, shares her incredible journey of healing and transformation, offering guidance and inspiration for remembering who you are and living in alignment with your soul's calling. Valeria interviews Bernice Cruz — She is a multi-dimensional holistic mentor and practitioner dedicated to guiding individuals on transformative journeys of healing, self-discovery, and spiritual awakening. With a deep commitment to helping others reconnect with their higher consciousness and the wisdom of the heart, Bernice empowers clients to access greater clarity, purpose, and inner alignment. Her integrative approach blends intuitive insight with grounded mentorship, creating a safe and expansive space for personal evolution. To learn more about Bernice Cruz and her work, please visit: https://www.spiritualjourneyhealing.com/

— In a world that often feels increasingly fast-paced and uncertain, it's no surprise that anxiety has become a prevalent challenge, especially for our children. From academic pressures to social anxieties to the constant barrage of information from screens, young people today face a unique set of stressors that can significantly impact their well-being. But what if we could equip them with the tools, the understanding, and the resilience to navigate these challenges not with fear, but with courage, self-compassion, and a sense of hope? That's the mission behind "Benny's Adventure: Overcoming Anxiety," a beautifully written and thoughtfully crafted book by Paloma Scott. More than just a story, it's a gentle guide, a roadmap for young readers to understand their anxieties, identify their triggers, and develop practical coping mechanisms that empower them to take control of their inner world. Through the relatable journey of Benny, a young character who faces his own fears with the help of a wise friend and some simple yet effective techniques, children learn that anxiety doesn't have to be a barrier to living a full and joyful life. Paloma Scott talk about her inspiring book, the importance of addressing anxiety in childhood, and the power of storytelling to connect with young readers on a deeply emotional level. Valeria interviews Paloma Scott — She is the author of "Benny's Adventure Overcoming Anxiety." Paloma Scott is a dynamic and compassionate Registered Psychologist. Paloma empowers her clients with warmth and care, ensuring they feel truly valued. She specializes in counseling children and adults with ADHD and ASD, helping them develop crucial emotional regulation skills and strategies. Other specialties include complex cases of PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression. Additionally, Paloma supports clients recovering from motor vehicle accidents, guiding them through trauma and helping them on their road to recovery. With Paloma, you're not just supported—you're understood and empowered to thrive. To learn more about Paloma Scott and her work, please visit: https://www.insightsolutionspsychology.com/ Sign up for Paloma's Private Practice Start Up course here: https://www.insightsolutionspsychology.com/challenges

— You've spent countless years living a life filtered through a number on the scale and exhaustive energy trying to control that number. Every fight you have with yourself pulls precious energy away from your dreams. You get that restrictive eating and excessive exercise are not going to work for you personally. You even recognize these approaches are triggering you and making the problem worse, but you just don't know where to turn anymore. When you realize who you are and what you have to offer the world matters, your life will expand, and your body will slim naturally. This is what Kathrine means when she says: Bigger Life. Smaller Body.™ WHO are you beyond a number on the scale? What would happen if you were to know yourself so deeply, that no person or situation could ever dictate how you feel about yourself? You would love yourself, love your life and love your body. Many smart, caring and competent people struggle with weight issues. Do you struggle with your relationships with food, movement or your body? And has this led to resistance, self-sabotage, food addiction, or binge eating issues? The longer these go on, the more entrenched they become. Are you finding these issues increasingly resistant to change, no matter what you've tried? Is this making you doubt your sense of self-worth and hold yourself back in life? You CAN live your bigger life now and every day while enjoying more Soulful relationships with food, movement and your body – really satisfying relationships that have a sense of choice, energy, freedom and joy to them. Valeria interviews Kathrine Brown — She is Master-Level Weight Loss & Wellness Coach, Founder of Conscious Weight Loss. At the leading edge of health and wellness coaching for over 22 years, with about 13,000 hours of weight loss specific coaching experience. Kathrine Brown (Coach Kath) is the developer of the leading edge Conscious Weight Loss® coaching process, author of the Wisdom Bites™ blog and co-host of the Conscious Weight Loss Podcast. She is a weight loss expert from the perspectives of personal growth, spiritual evolution and unconditional love. Through her process, she has helped thousands around the world live bigger lives in smaller bodies. Kathrine has been teaching her innovative approach since 2002, specializing in working with those struggling with resistance, self-sabotage, food addiction and binge eating. On this, she speaks from deep personal experience. A master-level coach and world-class communicator, she has the creativity and insight to effect profound, lasting change. Her pioneering work draws upon the latest findings from the fields of coaching, psychology and addiction, as well as wisdom traditions. Her powerful bridging of the practical and the spiritual is redefining the way the world approaches weight loss. She was the first and is still the only weight loss expert teaching such an innovative and insightful approach. She still eats French fries occasionally but no longer drives while under their influence. To learn more about Kathrine Brown and enjoy a FREE LIVE ONLINE TRAINING: https://consciousweightloss.com/training/

— Stress-Free, High-Quality Living with Your Kids - Parenting is a full-time job, but common challenges like sleep problems, defiance, lack of cooperation, and tantrums can drain the joy from family life. The good news is: it's time to find effective solutions, a strong support system, and dedicated accountability measures to get on the path to a high quality of life. The journey is possible. Big challenges or little ones… expert guidance is available to help you create the positive parenting experience you've always dreamed of. Eliminate second-guessing and confidently implement strategies that foster connection and strengthen your bond with your children – all without yelling, punishment, anger, or guilt. Discover simple, proven plans that have helped thousands of parents achieve lasting results. Valeria interviews Tia Slightham — is the parenting coach high-achieving moms call when they're done with yelling, guilt, and power struggles—and ready to lead with calm, confident authority at home. She is the founder of Tia Slightham – Parenting Solutions and creator of the Parenting With Purpose Method, a proven 12-week framework that helps overwhelmed parents transform chaos into connection—without punishments, bribes, or burnout. With a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education, certifications in Positive Discipline, and over 20 years of experience working with children and families, Tia has supported thousands of families worldwide through her coaching, workshops, speaking engagements, and social platforms. Her 7-figure coaching brand has impacted over a million people, with a loyal audience of 800K+ across social media. As a bestselling author, marathon runner, and mom of two incredible teens, Tia brings real-life wisdom, empathy, and strategy to every conversation. To learn more about Tia Slightham and her work, please visit: https://tiaslightham.com

— The longest relationship you will have in your life is the one with yourself! You want to feel Simply Self-Wonderful, perhaps not all the time but at least most of the time and to know ways to get back to being Simply Self-Wonderful so you can live the life you want and create for yourself. The Simply Self-Wonderful Card Deck and The Simply Self-Wonderful Inner Workout Book came out of that yearning in Judy. Wanting to feel loved, accepted, and worthy of love. And try as she might, something always blocked her – herself! That's why the Self word is repeated in every attribute (card). And that's why there is a hyphen between the attribute and the Self. They are connected and inseparable if you want to truly love yourself and flourish in life. Self-love isn't always easy. There's no Self-Love destination. It's an ongoing journey you take with yourself. And self-love doesn't demand perfection either. Just trying to take one step at a time is more than enough. You've got this! Valeria interviews Judy Slater — She is a transformational leader, spiritual guide, and creative visionary committed to integrating spirituality, healing, and the arts. An ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA) with over 40 years of experience, Judy blends her expertise in Co-Active leadership, adaptive change, and energy healing to help individuals and organizations navigate an evolving world. She holds certifications in Intuition Medicine®, Trauma Wellness Techniques, and Spirituality, Health, and Medicine, equipping her to guide clients through growth, resilience, and self-discovery. Judy is passionate about reimagining leadership, helping individuals embrace innovation while staying grounded in purpose. Whether coaching individuals or leading group training, she empowers leaders to cultivate clarity, courage, and transformation. A lifelong learner and adventurer, she finds inspiration in art, travel, and nature. Through her work, Judy invites others to embrace their own leadership journey, ignite their purpose and impact and flourish in life. To learn more about Judy Slater and her work, please visit: https://innerludecoach.com/

— Many people draw on spiritual beliefs, practices, and communities as sources of meaning, resilience, and connection. Mental health care increasingly recognizes that spirituality — understood broadly as how people find purpose, belonging, and transcendence — can interact with psychological well‑being. When integrated respectfully and ethically, attention to spiritual life can enhance assessment, deepen treatment, and help people unlock personal potential. This interview introduces key ideas, evidence, practical approaches, and cautions for clinicians, caregivers, and anyone curious about the intersection of mental health and spirituality. Valeria interviews Keith Kurlander, MA, LPC — He is the Co-Founder of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute, specializing in integrative mental health and psychedelic therapy education. He also co-hosts the Higher Practice Podcast for Optimal Mental Health and co-founded the Integrative Psychiatry Centers, a clinic transforming mental healthcare with innovative treatments. With over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and coach, Keith's mental health journey began after a near-suicide at 19 following a psilocybin experience. Now a successful entrepreneur, he's dedicated to teaching methods that help eradicate mental illness and unlock potential. To learn more about Keith Kurlander and his work, please visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/

— There was a time when you just knew. Who you were. What you loved. Why you were here. Before the world became noisy— Before expectations, doubts, and responsibilities crept in— There was a version of you who remembered your purpose. Who saw magic in the everyday. Who felt connected to something greater. That part of you isn't gone. It's simply been waiting for you to come back. Your Path, Your Pace — But You're Not Alone When you're ready to transcend your spiritual plateau, Dr. Kelly Edmonds offers a container that meets your deepest longing and helps you rise. Valeria interviews Dr. Kelly Edmonds — She is a spiritual mentor and intuitive healer who guides people through the early stages of spiritual awakening, when things often feel confusing, overwhelming, or uncertain. With over three decades of experience, she helps people clear energetic blocks, reconnect with their inner truth, and begin living in alignment with their Soul's purpose. Her work blends intuitive guidance, sacred energy practices, and deep ancestral healing, all with a grounded, non-performative approach that resonates with people who want something real, not performative or fast-tracked. To learn more about Dr. Kelly Edmonds and her work, please visit: https://www.kellyedmonds.com/

— Today we're diving deep into betrayal, infidelity, and the emotional aftermath. Why do people cheat—even when they love their partner? What drives repeated cheating or secret behavior? And most importantly, how can couples heal after trust is broken? Valeria interviews Nicola Beer, a relationship and trauma therapist with over 20 years of experience helping couples and individuals navigate infidelity recovery. Nicola believes that cheating is often a coping mechanism—sometimes even an addiction—and that full recovery is absolutely possible when both people are committed. Today she'll walk us through what really happens emotionally, psychologically, and relationally after betrayal—and how to heal from it. Nicola Beer is also a psychedelic retreat facilitator. She blends sacred plant medicine (primarily Huachuma/San Pedro), somatic therapy, and conscious relationship work to help individuals and couples heal emotional wounds, release stored pain, and reconnect to their inner truth. Nicola runs private healing retreats in Southeast Asia and hosts two podcast shows: Healing with Psychedelics and Relationship Revival. Her work focuses on turning trauma into transformation—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Podcast Healing with Psychedelics. To learn more about Nicola Beer and her work, please visit: https://nicolabeer.com/ and https://plantmedicinepower.com/ Also, check out Nicola's amazing offerings: — Affair recovery masterclass https://click.nicolabeer.com/trainingnicolabeercomaffair-recovery-coaching — Affair recovery pack https://training.nicolabeer.com/clarity