Break The Chains, Find Your Flame

Rob is the Founder of Family Care Counseling Associates in Wilbraham Massachusetts. He is a Fellow in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, a graduate of the Authentic Happiness Coaching Program taught by Dr. Martin Seligman and a graduate of the Eckhart Tolle School of Awakening. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FLXjP3X1YU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FLXjP3X1YU) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

LeRoy J. Watkins III is a dad of 3 lovely children, husband to an exceptional woman, and the CEO & Co-Owner of Viking Sports. His life journey has been anything but traditional. Instead it’s been a collection of spectacular failures combined with unbelievable achievement with lots of character building experiences mixed in. From the way he started his first company, to his first job out of college, to becoming a dad, it’s all become part of this incredible story of who he is. Find him here: https://www.vikingcamps.com/leroywatkins/ (Viking Sports) https://www.facebook.com/LeRoyJWatkinsIII/ (Facebook) https://leroywatkins.com/ (Website) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Ruby Maddox is the creator of Direct Your Purpose, a coaching and consulting business, dedicated to helping individuals and organizations cultivate their potential for meaningful contributions to society. She has spent more than 15 years working in the field of nonprofit management and philanthropy.  She is the co-founder of two nonprofit organizations focused on social justice, leadership, and equity (Gardening the Community & Leaders of the Free World) She is a 40 Under 40 Business and Community Leader's award recipient and a 2018 TEDx Speaker. Outreach to her here: https://www.directyourpurpose.com/ (Direct Your Purpose) https://www.leadersofthefreeworld.org/ (Leaders Of The Free World) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Rolando Garcia III is a recognized leader in the fitness industry, having served as both coach and mentor to some of the top fitness teams and most recognized brands in the world. His certifications include - RKC Level 2, PN2, Masters in Service and Hospitality at Cornell University, Full Instructor in JKD/FMA, and Coach at Boxe Francaise Savate.  Through his father he inherited the Dizon system of Filipino Martial Arts.  He is also a Brazilian Jiujitsu Purple Belt. Lastly, he is the author of “Intrinsic Excellence”, published by Dragondoor and foreword written by Dan John! Instagram: @rolandogarciaiii --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Shelby (she/her) is a licensed mental health counselor and certified 200-hour yoga teacher. She uses an integrative and holistic approach to seamlessly blend yogic philosophy in an accessible manner into her clinical practice. In addition to working full-time with college-aged students, she hosts a podcast called “The Yogi Therapist Podcast“ which features candid interviews from professionals in the fields of health, yoga, and psychology. She lives in Boston with her husband and three cats. Check her out on instagram at: @yogitherapist or her website: yogitherapist.net/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Trevor Smith is a passionate, vibrant facilitator and theater-based trainer. He believes in the power of laughter and Improvisation and he uses it well to educate and enlighten his clients. Trevor spent the first fifteen years of his career as a Recreation Therapist in the social services sector using laughter and creative, improvisational techniques to bring about transformation in those whom he counseled. In recent years, Trevor has turned his focus on supporting growth in the legal profession and the banking industry. He is further expanding his training opportunities to meet the professional development needs of a broad range of organizations. His work promotes self-confidence, creative problem solving and effective communication. Both in his career and in his personal life, Trevor values his ability to make people feel comfortable and supported in the learning process, and he is driven to create positive change and explore the possibilities for his clients in his nontraditional learning environment.

Shatoyia Jones, reigning Ms. Massachusetts 2019 AWOS, is a social systems entrepreneur and educator, motivational speaker, social good lifestyle blogger, budding podcast host, philosopher and model. Growing up in a small, poor city in Louisiana where the ¨hustle and respect¨ is more important than financial stability and self-development, she is forever grateful for being privileged to attend one of the most elite colleges in the U.S. With a newfound passion for providing access to basic needs and education, as well as facilitating profound discussions on humanity, poverty and poverty alleviation, and holistic health - mental health, her philosophies have become her lifestyle. She currently serves as Founder and CEO of Ordinary x Influence, a social enterprise helping change makers build initiatives and businesses for sustainable impact and ethical practice, profitability, and scalability, Founder of First Ladies of Poverty Foundation & First Ladies of Poverty TV, and Education / Leadership Consult

Megan has a deep understanding and experience in recovery, stemming from her own spiritual journey and transformation following her struggles with alcohol and addiction. Megan spent years in the harrowing clutches of alcohol addiction and battled an eating disorder during a time in her life that she refers to as her dark night of the soul. Megan has been in recovery for nearly four years and she integrates adventure and nature into her recovery practice, as she finds both to be incredibly healing and influential. Megan is passionate about helping individuals navigate through their own dark night of the soul and step into their power in order to live an integral and joyful life. Megan works for an organization called Being True To You that helps individuals achieve natural maturation out of addiction, integrate transformational experiences, and awaken to their true selves. For more information about this organization, visit http://www.beingtruetoyou.com/ (www.beingtruetoyou.com). You can also visi

Hey Guys!!! During this trying time we thought we would put together an episode that will help you find space, grace, and healing. This is an episode of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Meditation. It explains the process and gives an introduction to what it is, and how to utilize its body relaxing potential. After the introduction, you will be led on a 20 minute meditation and guided through the process of slowly contracting and relaxing your body. Please enjoy!! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Episode 24 features our good friend Perry O'Hearn. Perry owns a gym in Philadelphia called Philly Phitness. Through Perry’s studies in Electrical Engineering and over 20,000 of hours of experience as a Certified Personal Trainer through the American Academy of Personal Training,  he has been able to put together a training facility like nowhere else in Philadelphia. Philly Phitness runs on a platform of training that combines a balance of strength training, nutritional support, mindset support, supportive and rehabilitating techniques (chiropractic, massage therapy, mindset support, etc), and recreational activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle and positive outlook on life (rock climbing, hiking, triathlons, etc). Perry has created multiple transformation programs that allow for clients to choose their commitment while not limiting their access to his network and team of fitness professionals. He does not believe in training clients; He believes in transforming lives. Perry has a team of amazin

Annie Vo is one of New York City’s most successful and sought-after personal trainers. As PCC Team Leader, RKC Team Leader and Level III Gym Jones Instructor she has taught certifications and seminars all over the world. Over the last decade, Ms. Vo has honed her skills through fully immersing herself in a multitude of training disciplines, from bodyweight, to kettlebells, to power lifting and more. She has been featured in The New York Post, NPR and Mademan.com. Annie Vo continues to work with clients from numerous backgrounds, including athletes and celebrities, as well as everyday professionals. She is known for her no-nonsense training style, brutal serenity, and her talent for bringing out the best in everyone who crosses her path. A diverse and complex talent, Annie holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Columbia University and is a classically trained musician. https://annievo.com/ (https://annievo.com/) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.f

Shannon Algeo is a life coach, motivational speaker, and yoga:meditation teacher. He is the host of the iTunes Top Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/soulfeed-chats-influential-leaders-inspiring-life-coaching/id977979288?mt=2 (SoulFeed) and interviews iconic wellness leaders in the wellbeing space like Deepak Chopra, Gabby Bernstein, Marianne Williamson, Caroline Myss, and many more. Shannon works with clients to heal old patterns of trauma and negativity so they can powerfully show up in the world to live a life of power, presence, and purpose. Shannon was named one of the 2019 “35 Under 35 in Wellness to Watch” by Wanderlust and named one of the “Nicest Instructors in New York City” by RateYourBurn for his work as a yoga and meditation teacher. He leads corporate mindfulness programs for companies like the global non-profit (RED) founded by Bono as well as several start up companies. In addition to giving talks for lululemon and Wanderlust, Shannon was invited to speak at the United Nations for Yo

Tony Steward is a fitness professional based out of New York City. After struggling with his own weight issues through most of his childhood and adolescence, he became motivated to become both a student and teacher of fitness, strength, and wellness Tony uses a multifaceted, holistic approach to training, striving not to fall into fitness dogmas and always puts his clients’ goals and aspirations at the forefront of the process. Follow him on Instagram @trainmetony --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Lorenzo Lewis is a social entrepreneur, professional speaker, and founder of the widely acclaimed The Confess Project, an initiative that centers on mental health and wellness for young men of color. A master storyteller, Lewis has spoken at numerous venues around the country about his journey turning pain into purpose—from narrowly escaping the school-to-prison pipeline and obtaining a master's degree to his current work building a national mental health movement. He lives in Little Rock, Arkansas. The Confess Project is committed to building a culture of mental health for boys and men of color through capacity building, advocacy, organizing and movement building. They believe in a world without barriers to stigma and shame. https://www.lorenzoplewis.com/ (https://www.lorenzoplewis.com/) https://www.theconfessproject.com (https://www.theconfessproject.com/) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

Dr. Christopher Willard (PsyD) is a psychologist and educational consultant based in Boston specializing in mindfulness.  He has been practicing meditation for 20 years, and has led hundreds of workshops around the world, with invitations to more than two dozen countries. He currently serves on the board of directors at the Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy, and is the president of the Mindfulness in Education Network. He has presented at TEDx conferences and his thoughts have appeared in the New York Times, The Washington Post, mindful.org, and elsewhere. He is the author of Child’s Mind (2010) Growing Up Mindful (2016) Raising Resilience (2017) and eight other books for parents, professionals and children, along with six sets of cards and therapeutic games, available in more than ten languages. He teaches at Harvard Medical School. Find him at: website: www.drchristopherwillard.com Instagram: @drchriswillard Email: chris@drchristopherwillard.com and check out Alphabreaths on Amazon -

I am beyond happy to have had sat down with today's guest, Susan Piver!! Susan is the New York Times bestselling author of nine books, including http://www.amazon.com/Hard-Questions-100-Ask-Before/dp/1585426210/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1265752222&sr=1-2 (The Hard Questions), the award-winning http://www.amazon.com/How-Not-Afraid-Your-Life/dp/B001PO66SK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1265752251&sr=1-1 (How Not to Be Afraid of Your Own Life), http://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Broken-Heart-Uncommon-Healing/dp/1416593152/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262735820&sr=8-1 (The Wisdom of a Broken Heart), and https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1611802679?pf_rd_p=183f5289-9dc0-416f-942e-e8f213ef368b&pf_rd_r=1XKZQ9EA90P2MMXR7YPF (Start Here Now: An Open-Hearted Guide to the Path and Practice of Meditation). Her newest book is https://www.amazon.com/Four-Noble-Truths-Love-Relationships/dp/1732277605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1530196896&sr=8-1&keywords=four+noble+truths+of

We got to sit down with Andrew Morse for today's podcast... and boy was it a great experience. Andrew is one of the most genuine souls that there is! He is open, engaging, inquisitive, and not afraid to have some deep conversations about the societal and religious chains that he has had to break to find his own flame!! Andrew works in academic support at Holyoke Community College where he helps students find their writing voice and encourages them to think critically about their writing. He has a Communication degree from UMass where he studied how people are influenced by environment, media, and social constructs. Andrew is a little over a year into an unexpected stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis and he speaks openly about his approach to maintaining his wellness while he adapts to live his best life. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support (https://anchor.fm/steven-opalenik/support)

We got to sit down with our friend Robyn Lee!! The conversation touched upon a number of different topics, however the fruit of the conversation really focused on the positive role that social media can play with community building and philanthropy. We often hear about the negative affects of social media and technology, it was quite refreshing to talk about the positive side of social media and how we can use it to empower individuals and communities! Robyn Lee is the proud owner of MorningBird Media- a social media company that goes beyond the metrics to express your company's personality through the art of storytelling. She translates the personality of your physical business to an online experience that everyone can enjoy. They are currently working with non-profits like the CT Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Valley Venture Mentors as well as retail businesses like ShopRite. She also teaches masterclasses to the public on how to use social media for your business.  Facebook: https://faceboo

We recently got to catch up with our friends, Aaron and Maire, from Beyond Happiness!! Catching up was fantastic, and we were even blessed with a visit from a 3rd essential member of their company!! The episode is packed with great information on self care, perspective, and empathy (and Aaron also channels his inner Hulk Powers!!). Aaron was diagnosed with Itchy Dry Skin and has struggled ever since to find products that work for him. During his time in high school, he began to make his own body butters and soaps to help with his skin. After a teacher told him to sell the product, he began to pursue a skin care business. After years of research and trial and error he launched his business, Simply Smooth, in 2017. Since then, Aaron has received the Grinspoon Entrepreneurship Spirit Award, 2nd Place in the Hampshire College Pitching Competition, an internship with Hampshire College Entrepreneurship Internship, got accepted to both VVM Collegiate Accelerator and VVM Startup Accelerator Programs, and many other

In this episode, I got to sit down with my dear friend, Heidi Yohe, and talk about all the awesome things she is doing, and how her life has transformed since last we saw each other, 10 years ago. Heidi and I worked together for the LACES program at Springfield College. There we helped youth learn leadership skills and how to utilize these skills to help their community. I am proud to say that Heidi is continuing to do so, as she has works in two non-profit organizations, one of which she created to help empower young women through volleyball. Heidi Yohe is the co-founder and Managing Director of Empower Juniors, a non-profit based out of Austin Texas with a mission to provide quality, unified and compassionate coaches who plant seeds of positive growth by teaching volleyball and life skills to healthy, hardworking and empowered women on the future. She also works as the Outreach and Education Coordinator at Save Our Springs Alliance a nonprofit that works to protect the local water resources of Central Texa