Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Free Thinking with Montel. In this episode, Montel speaks with Phyllis Leavitt, a psychotherapist with over 34 years of experience and author of the compelling new book, America in Therapy.

Phyllis believes that while partisanship and aggression threaten our country, there's still hope. She envisions America as a patient in dire need of therapy and argues that addressing our nation's mental health crisis is crucial for our survival.

• Understanding America's Mental Health Crisis: Phyllis elaborates on why deteriorating mental health is the greatest threat to our country's continued survival.
• Signs of Mass Mental Illness: Insight into how political and ideological polarization can be viewed through the lens of mental health.
• Healing National Divisions: Phyllis shares actionable steps on how we can elevate the principles of individual and family healing to a national level.
• The Role of Social Media: A discussion on how social media exacerbates the mental health crisis and how it can be leveraged for healing instead.
• Balancing Pride and Reality: Tips on how to maintain pride in America while acknowledging and addressing systemic issues.
• Community and Workplace Support: Practical advice on how communities, workplaces, and individuals can support mental health.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that not only informs but also inspires action towards reconciliation, unity, and healing in America.

Guest Bio:

Phyllis E. Leavitt, MA, is a retired psychotherapist based in Taos, NM. She holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology and Counseling from Antioch University. Phyllis co-directed The Parents United Program, a family sexual abuse treatment program, and has written two books on her personal healing journey. Her latest book, America in Therapy, presents an unprecedented perspective, envisioning the entire nation as a patient in need of therapy.

Tune in to hear Phyllis’s unique insights and discover how we can collectively begin the challenging but necessary process of national healing.

In this episode of "Free Thinking with Montel," we're honored to have Dr. David Weill, former Director of the Center for Advanced Lung Disease and Lung and Heart-Lung Transplant Program at Stanford University Medical Center. Now leading the Weill Consulting Group, David's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has saved countless lives, faced heart-wrenching ethical dilemmas, and now, he's reshaping his narrative through writing. David’s memoir, "Exhale," gives a raw and emotional look into the highs and lows of a transplant surgeon's life. But he’s not stopping there—David has recently ventured into fiction with his debut novel, "All That Really Matters." In this episode, Montel and David discuss the transition from medical practice to authoring impactful stories, the challenges of writing fiction, and the inspiration behind his latest work.

Key points covered include:

*The shift from transplant surgeon to author

*Inspiration behind "All That Really Matters"

*Challenges in switching from non-fiction to fiction

*Character development and thematic depth in his novel

*Ethical dilemmas in high-stakes medicine

*Significant advancements in transplant surgery over the past decade

*Balancing medical accuracy with compelling storytelling

David also shares valuable advice for anyone feeling stuck and contemplating a fresh start. Tune in for an insightful conversation that spans both medical and literary worlds. Whether you're a fan of medical memoirs or compelling fiction, this episode has something for everyone.

Don't miss this chance to hear from a man who has dedicated his life to healing others and now, through his writing, aims to heal and inspire even more. Make sure to check out David Weill’s new novel "All That Really Matters." It’s a compelling read that offers deep insights into the human condition. Available now at your favorite bookstore. Keep thinking freely, everyone, and take care.

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of "Free Thinking with Montel.” In this episode Montel sits down with John Pavlovitz, a writer, pastor, and activist known for his unwavering commitment to equality, diversity, and justice. With over 25 years of dedicated service in local church ministry, John has been a beacon of hope and a voice for progressive change.

They discuss John's new book, “Worth Fighting For,” which motivates readers to find courage and compassion in times of widespread cruelty. Delve into John's personal background, what drives him to advocate for marginalized communities, and how he continues to inspire others even when the going gets tough.

The conversation begins with John's background, exploring his journey from his early years to becoming a pastor. They then transition to his ministry and advocacy work, discussing what keeps John pushing forward in his quest for justice. The motivation behind his latest book, “Worth Fighting For,” is thoroughly examined, highlighting its intent to inspire courage and compassion.

They also touch on the emotional landscape of today’s society, particularly addressing how to stay hopeful amidst political turmoil. John shares insights on maintaining compassion without burning out and illustrates the power of individual actions with real-life examples of impactful change. Handling backlash is another key topic, as John navigates criticism on social media, discussing both its challenges and opportunities for fostering hope.

Moreover, John offers tips for managing social media consumption to ensure a positive online experience. His personal strategies for mental health and self-care practices are also covered, providing listeners with valuable advice. Looking ahead, John discusses his future focus areas and key efforts to foster an inclusive society. His perspective on finding internal happiness, encapsulated in the phrase “Happiness is an Inside Job,” rounds out the episode.

Join us for a deeply moving conversation on standing for what's right, loving fiercely, and thinking freely. Don’t miss this powerful episode featuring one of the most compelling voices for justice today.

John Pavlovitz's website: https://johnpavlovitz.com/

John Pavlovitz on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JohnP

Welcome back to Free Thinking with Montel, the podcast where we celebrate incredible stories of courage, hope, and the unbreakable human spirit. In this episode, we tackle a profoundly inspiring narrative — a story not just about survival, but about thriving in the face of immense adversity. We highlight the deep, nurturing love between a father and his daughter, driving an extraordinary battle for life and embodying resilience and unwavering connection. Our guest is Paul Weigel, author of the moving memoir "Iron Dad." Paul’s life has been a series of challenges—an isolated childhood, personal tragedies, and a devastating cancer diagnosis. Yet, he chose hope and determination, spurred by the unyielding bond with his daughter. We also address an urgent health issue: colorectal cancer. Alarming statistics from The American Cancer Society’s 2024 Cancer Facts and Figures show that colon cancer is now the leading cancer killer for men and the second for women in the United States, with predictions that 1 in 20 individuals will face this disease in their lifetime.

However, prevention and early detection can dramatically improve outcomes. Join us as Paul shares his powerful story of fighting colon cancer, training for an Ironman triathlon post-chemotherapy, and remaining a dedicated father. Discover how he found strength in the darkest times and the strategies he used to maintain balance during his treatment. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Insights from Paul Weigel’s memoir, "Iron Dad," on discovering strength, life, and love through fatherhood. The rise in colorectal cancer rates and its impact on younger generations. The mental and physical strength required to train for an Ironman while recovering from chemotherapy. Practical advice for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis. Strategies for balancing treatment and family responsibilities. How celebrities and organizations are partnering with Paul to raise awareness around colorectal cancer.

Tips on supporting loved ones battling cancer. Paul’s resilience and love for his daughter are truly inspirational. Listen now and be inspired by Paul Weigel’s incredible journey. Advocate for early detection and keep believing in the impossible. Purchase Paul's memoir, "Iron Dad," to delve deeper into his story of resilience and love. Stay informed, stay compassionate, and keep free thinking. Support those fighting cancer and join the movement to raise awareness around colorectal cancer.

In this enlightening installment of Free Thinking with Montel, we delve into a pivotal moment in the battle against Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a condition that impacts millions worldwide, including our host Montel Williams. In this episode we will explore a revolutionary new study on remyelination, which could potentially transform the treatment and management of MS.

First, we sit down with Mary Chapman, a 25-year MS survivor and passionate patient advocate. Mary shares her deeply personal journey, from her initial diagnosis and the challenges she faced to becoming a resilient fighter and advocate for MS awareness. Her story is one of perseverance, strength, and hope, offering inspiration to many who face similar battles.

Following Mary’s compelling narrative, we welcome Dr. Shiv Saidha from the Johns Hopkins Multiple Sclerosis Center. Dr. Saidha is at the forefront of MS research, and he provides an in-depth look at the basics of MS, the significance of remyelination, and the groundbreaking study he is spearheading. This study aims to develop new treatment options that could drastically improve the quality of life for those living with MS.

Dr. Saidha elaborates on the unique goals and innovative techniques of his research, highlighting the critical role of private philanthropy in advancing scientific breakthroughs. He explains why traditional grant funding falls short for such pioneering endeavors and discusses the biggest hurdles in identifying effective treatments for MS.

Together, Mary and Dr. Saidha reflect on the importance of this research and its potential to bring hope to the 2.8 million people affected by MS worldwide. They also share their vision for the future of MS treatment and patient care over the next decade.

This research is a beacon of hope for everyone affected by MS.

Support Mary's Campaign to Unlock Nerve Repair in MS

https://aspire.hopkinsmedicine.org/project/40589

Welcome back to "Free Thinking with Montel," where we explore the symphonies of sustainability and song—an extraordinary harmony that our remarkable guest navigates with unparalleled grace and fervor. This episode delves into the compelling world of Taja Sevelle, an acclaimed recording artist discovered by the legendary Prince, whose poignant passion has shifted towards mitigating hunger through Urban Farming. An endeavor that, just like her music, seeks to heal and inspire. In this engaging conversation, Taja Sevelle returns to the show to share her journey from the stages of the music world to the fields of urban farming. Her transformative work began in 2005, and today, it stands as a testament to the power of combining one's passion with purpose.

Topics We Cover: The genesis of Urban Farming reveals what sparked Taja to start this incredible organization aimed at alleviating hunger. Insights from the fields provide invaluable lessons learned from various communities and highlight the significance of regenerative farming. Musical inspiration includes the story behind her track “Silver Lining” and how it encapsulates her life’s philosophy of love and hope. We delve into her collaboration with Prince, understanding how his support amplified her mission and the enduring impact of his legacy on her work. We also explore the challenges and resilience witnessed while working in communities stricken with chronic poverty and how these experiences have shaped her outlook and influenced her music. Future endeavors give us a sneak peek into what’s next for Taja, both in her musical career and humanitarian efforts. We discuss the vital role of artists and musicians in the ongoing conversation about sustainability and social issues. Upcoming challenges and opportunities for Urban Farming and similar initiatives are examined. Art reflecting society helps us delve into how music and art can foster a deeper understanding and engagement with environmental and humanitarian causes. Finally, Taja shares a message of hope about the importance of combining one’s passion with purpose to create meaningful change.

Closing Thoughts: Taja Sevelle's work is a beacon of hope and change. Her story is a call to find our “Silver Lining,” pursuing passions that not only fulfill us but uplift others. Join us for this inspiring episode that compels us to think freely and live fervently. Tune in to "Free Thinking with Montel" for more stories that celebrate the harmony of heart and mind. Remember, the key to harmony is in all of us. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if this episode resonates with you. Your support helps us continue bringing inspiring content and expert insights to our community.

https://kissthegroundmovie.com

https://www.urbanfarming.org

https://tajasevelle.com

In this heartfelt episode of "Free Thinking with Montel," we invite you into the remarkable world of Dunk MS, a groundbreaking initiative turning the battle against Multiple Sclerosis into a slam dunk. Montel Williams is joined by Blake Arnet, the former UCLA basketball star and visionary behind Dunk MS, to discuss how the worlds of sports and philanthropy can unite for a powerful cause.

Blake takes us through his personal journey, starting from his early days before MS touched his life, leading to the heart-wrenching diagnosis of his mother in 2007, to her sudden passing in 2009. This pivotal moment spurred Blake into action, channeling his grief into advocacy and the creation of the world's first charity dunk show, Dunk MS.

Listeners will get an insider's look into the annual Dunk MS event at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion, set to take place on May 18th, 2024. Expect a day packed with high-flying action from the world's top pro dunkers, a kid's basketball clinic, an MS community zone, and much more, all benefiting MS research at UCLA Health.

Blake also shares the evolution of Dunk MS, the impact it has made so far, and his vision for expanding this initiative to touch more lives. With over 750 attendees, partnerships with giants like UCLA Athletics, UCLA Health, and BallisLife, the event is a testament to the community's dedication to fighting MS.

Blake’s inspiring tale is not just about overcoming adversity but about transforming loss into a legacy of hope and support for those affected by Multiple Sclerosis. His mother's memory lives on through Dunk MS, a beacon of light in the ongoing fight against this challenging disease.

We close by encouraging our listeners to support this noble cause. Whether you’re cheering from the stands at Pauley Pavilion or supporting from afar, your involvement can help accelerate the path towards a cure for MS. To learn more about the event or to donate, visit dunkms.com or onecau.se/dunkms. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those battling MS.

Remember, change starts with us, and together, we are unstoppable. Keep pushing forward, keep free-thinking, and most importantly, keep spreading love and positivity wherever you go. Tune in, be inspired, and see how you can be part of something truly extraordinary. Take care of yourselves, and each other, until next time.

Dive into a groundbreaking episode of "Free Thinking with Montel" as we explore the intersections of health, longevity, and groundbreaking discoveries. Today, Montel Williams chats with Stephanie and Eric Venn-Watson, the powerhouse couple whose work in veterinary epidemiology and military medicine has led to a revolutionary finding in nutritional science – a unique fatty acid, C15:0. Their discovery offers promising insights into anti-aging and wellness, drawing from their extensive research, including work with Navy dolphins. Listen in as they discuss:

• Their journey to this discovery and its implications for longevity.
• The significance of C15:0 and its potential to change the game in health and wellness.
• Insights into their supplement Fatty15 and the research backing its benefits.
• Future directions in longevity research and technology's role in these advancements.
• Top advice for listeners on proactively enhancing their health and longevity.

Get ready for an inspiring session that will alter how you view nutrition and its impact on a healthier, longer life. Tune into this enlightening dialogue with Stephanie and Eric Venn-Watson and perhaps discover the key to unlocking your own pathway to longevity.

And because we truly believe in the life-changing power of Fatty 15, we've arranged for a special treat just for you.

When you use my affiliate link https://fatty15.com/MONTEL you'll get an exclusive 20% discount on a 90-day supply.

Take charge of your health and start your Fatty15 journey today. Click the link, grab your discount, and thank us later!