In this episode, I sit down with Hallie Hoffman—a longtime NJCTS volunteer, youth advocate, and all-around powerhouse—to dive into her personal journey with Tourette Syndrome. Hallie shares her early experiences with tics, her decision to seek a diagnosis at 13, and how that moment catapulted her into advocacy and leadership. With honesty and warmth, she reflects on how self-awareness, support systems, and community resources shaped her path to resilience and self-acceptance.

We touch on everything from Hallie’s dietary discoveries to her thoughts on co-occurring conditions, mindfulness, and accommodations. Plus, she offers valuable insights for anyone navigating life with TS—whether you’re newly diagnosed, a parent, or an adult figuring it out as you go. Hallie's story is a testament to the power of owning your narrative and finding strength in community.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Help NJTS advocate for funding in New Jersey!

[1:47] Kicking off with Hallie's TS journey and how early signs led to a self-initiated diagnosis.

[5:33] Why getting that label was empowering—and how it sparked Hallie’s drive to become a youth advocate.

[10:33] Finding belonging and mentorship through NJCTS and the Tim Howard Leadership Academy.

[14:07] Life now: how Hallie’s tics have evolved and why disclosure is a personal choice.

[17:47] Hallie’s creative coping strategies—from mindfulness to making tics less disruptive.

[22:30] Navigating co-occurring OCD and anxiety, and how awareness has helped her cope.

[24:07] The impact of diet: what helped Hallie and why everyone’s experience with food is unique.

[28:03] Reframing diagnosis: from stigma to tool for empowerment and accessing resources.

[31:32] Why resources like NJCTS’s provider list are game-changers for the TS community.

[36:18] That unmatched feeling of being surrounded by others who just "get it".

[43:21] Hallie’s goals for the future and how she continues to channel her experiences to support others.

Links & Resources:

NJCTS Advocacy Page: https://njcts.org/help-restore-our-funding/

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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Hey everyone, Michael here! In today’s episode of The UpTIC, I’m joined by Lorenzo Tiozzo, a passionate advocate who’s navigated Tourette Syndrome across two continents. Lorenzo grew up just outside Venice, Italy, and recently graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Telecommunication, specializing in Film and TV Production. He’s also part of the Rising Leaders Program with the Tourette Association of America—and he’s on a mission to inspire others through storytelling, media, and his personal experience with TS.

We talk about everything from cultural differences in awareness and support between Italy and the U.S., to his bold decision to move abroad, the challenges of acceptance, and how music and film became his therapy. This is a heartfelt and deeply personal conversation about identity, growth, and the power of advocacy. If you’ve ever felt like the only one in the room—or the world—facing a challenge, you’re going to connect with this episode.

Episode Highlights:

[0:52] Introducing Lorenzo and his background growing up near Venice and studying in the U.S.
[2:21] What it felt like returning to Italy after years in Florida.
[3:26] Lorenzo’s childhood dream of studying in America and his passion for film.
[4:59] First impressions of the U.S. and adjusting to cultural differences.
[5:27] Discovering and being diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in Italy.
[8:22] How boarding school helped him gain independence and self-acceptance.
[10:28] Choosing a major in telecommunications and film and pursuing creative dreams.
[11:39] His advocacy journey and the powerful experience of joining the Rising Leaders Program.
[14:10] Speaking on Capitol Hill and the impact of meeting others with TS.
[19:20] Challenges in building awareness and breaking stereotypes about Tourette’s.
[22:31] Lorenzo’s advice for kids facing bullying or isolation due to their tics.
[24:16] Social media’s role in increasing visibility for TS in Italy.
[28:09] How co-occurring conditions like ADHD and OCD impact daily life.
[33:59] The healing power of sports and music in managing symptoms.
[36:46] Final thoughts and advice: talk to someone, find your support system, and don’t be afraid to share what you're going through.

Links & Resources:

Lorenzo Tiozzo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenzo-tiozzo-caenazzo-3b654228b/

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Christine Conelea, a brilliant research psychologist from the University of Minnesota, who's leading the charge in cutting-edge research around Tourette Syndrome (TS), OCD, and anxiety. We dive into the transformative innovations happening in her lab—from developing computer vision tools that can detect tics via video recordings to clinical trials testing the effectiveness of CBIT and brain stimulation therapies like TMS.

Dr. Conelea shares how her team is using AI to identify motor and vocal tics and how this research could improve diagnostic access for people across the country. We talk about what’s happening in the brain during tics, how treatment like CBIT and TMS might actually change neural circuits, and the importance of tailoring interventions based on the person’s profile.

Episode Highlights:

[1:00] Meet Dr. Christine Conelea—cutting-edge researcher from the University of Minnesota diving deep into TS, OCD, and anxiety.
[2:20] Why diagnosis delays are such a problem in the TS community—and how her lab is using AI and video data to solve it.
[6:46] How you can participate in their research by uploading videos from the comfort of home.
[8:30] The vision: a diagnostic tool that supports clinicians with objective data from simple video clips.
[13:50] CBIT’s roots and Christine’s journey into TS research—from grad school basement to leading national trials.
[18:40] Exploring why CBIT works for some but not others—how brain inhibition plays a role.
[22:20] A personal story on why I (Michael) stopped CBIT as a teen and thoughts on revisiting it now.
[26:25] The role of TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) in strengthening the brain’s “brake system” for tics.
[30:48] Can therapy and TMS reshape the brain? What the early data is showing us.
[34:46] Applying the same neuroscience-driven approach to OCD treatment with ERP and TMS.
[40:33] Advice for newly diagnosed families—and the power of education and demystifying TS.
[42:47] Superpowers in the TS community—how a stronger “habit system” might explain our gifts in music, sports, and more.

Links & Resources:

• Dr. Conelea's professional page - https://med.umn.edu/bio/christine-conelea
• MnTiC Lab - https://ticlab.umn.edu/
• Checking out ongoing clinical studies - https://ticlab.umn.edu/research

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Marla Deibler, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert in behavioral and cognitive psychology, to explore a topic that's not only often misunderstood but deeply important: Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). These include things like hair pulling, skin picking, and nail biting — behaviors that are frequently dismissed or minimized, but that can significantly impact a person’s emotional and physical well-being. Dr. Deibler brings warmth, clarity, and a wealth of clinical knowledge to help us better understand what BFRBs really are, how they function, and the crucial connection they share with Tourette syndrome, OCD, ADHD, and anxiety. This conversation touches on the science, the stigma, and the strategies for support.

Marla Deibler, PsyD, ABPP is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Board-Certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology, and CEO of The Center for Emotional Health of Greater Philadelphia. She is a nationally recognized expert in anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Dr. Deibler currently serves as faculty member of Behavior Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) of the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF), President of the Board of Directors of OCD New Jersey (OCDNJ), the NJ affiliate of the International OCD Foundation, Consultant for the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders, Visiting Clinical Supervisor at the Rutgers University Psychological Services Clinic, and as a member of the Executive Council for the Association for Contextual Behavioral Sciences (ACBS)OCD Special Interest Group.

Episode Highlights:

[0:40] Welcoming Dr. Marla Deibler and kicking things off with the basics of BFRBs.
[1:53] Breaking down what qualifies as a BFRB — it’s more common than you think.
[2:10] Exploring the link between BFRBs, Tourette syndrome, OCD, ADHD, and anxiety.
[3:02] How genetics, behavior, and environment all play a role.
[6:18] Tackling the stigma and shame that often surround BFRBs.
[6:53] Why CBIT and Habit Reversal Therapy work — and how we adapt them.
[9:03] A look into diagnostic assessments and whole-person treatment planning.
[11:16] Addressing shame through compassion and community-based support.
[21:41] Comparing how BFRBs manifest differently in children vs. adults.
[25:15] Tips for parents — how to approach these behaviors with sensitivity.
[27:09] Where we are with research, treatment, and what needs to improve.
[30:45] Medication, brain science, and how BFRBs differ from tics.
[35:39] Nonprofit resources and communities that offer specialized support.
[37:01] Final words of encouragement — you’re not alone, and help is out there.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Marla:
  • Website: https://thecenterforemotionalhealth.com/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecenterforemotionalhealth
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceh_philadelphia/
  • “X”: https://twitter.com/DoctorDeibler
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marla-deibler-psyd-abpp-a220851a/
  • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/doctordeibler.bsky.social
  • Marla Deibler’s Book: The BFRB RecoveryWorkbook: Effective Recovery from Hair Pulling, Skin Picking

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What happens when you receive a life-changing diagnosis at 16—and decide to turn it into your superpower? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredibly driven and insightful Sree Lakkamraju. She’s a high school senior, NJCTS Youth Council member, TAA Youth Ambassador, and soon-to-be NYU student. But beyond the titles, Sree is someone who’s turned self-awareness and advocacy into action, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring.

We dive into her late diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome, how she navigated disclosures at school and with friends, and the powerful moment when she realized this wasn’t something to hide—it was something to own. From her experiences fencing, speaking publicly, and interning at Mass General Hospital, Sree has found a voice that’s helping educate, empower, and encourage others.

Episode Highlights:

[3:45] Biking, blinking, and awkward questions: how she explained her tics pre-diagnosis.
[6:33] The moment of clarity: getting the official diagnosis and what it meant to her.
[8:24] Disclosure struggles and the classroom experience that left a lasting mark.
[10:03] Discovering NJCTS and TAA—and realizing advocacy could be a superpower.
[12:19] How Tourette’s helped shape her confidence and public speaking skills.
[14:15] The speech that changed everything and what it means to find your message.
[16:52] Life outside of advocacy: fencing, leadership roles, and staying active.
[19:55] Why fencing became complicated—and how she plans to get back to it in college.
[21:14] Cold emails and big dreams: interning at Mass General Hospital.
[24:54] Insights from OCD/Tourette research and learning the ropes of a real lab.
[25:49] Looking ahead to NYU and life in NYC as a new chapter begins.
[28:26] Disclosure done right: different reactions from two very different school settings.
[31:33] Humor, boundaries, and knowing when to step into advocate mode.
[34:19] What it was like meeting 60+ other youth with TS at a TAA conference.
[37:19] Sree’s advice for those newly diagnosed—and for those supporting someone with TS.
[40:10] A final word on empathy, advocacy, and the value of finding your fire.

Links & Resources:

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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In this episode, I sit down with dancer, choreographer, and advocate Marissa Lazovick for a heart-centered conversation that moves through performance, diagnosis, and the power of self-expression. Marissa shares how her journey with Tourette Syndrome has intersected with her passion for dance, leading to the creation of her powerful solo piece, "(Tic)kled." We talk about what it really means to advocate for yourself, to be understood, and to turn something challenging into something beautifully human.

Marissa opens up about everything from being diagnosed in middle school to coping with tics in college life, and how dancing—not just physically, but emotionally—has helped her find a rhythm in the chaos. Her perspective on inclusivity, mental health, and self-acceptance is honest, wise, and inspiring.

Marissa is a New Jersey native, now a first year at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, majoring in Dance. A dancer since age 5, Marissa recently choreographed and danced to a piece about her Tourette experience, titled, "(Tic)kled. She is also an American Sign Language (ASL) instructor.

Episode Highlights:

[1:33] Meet Marissa — a New Jersey native, dancer, and ASL instructor with a powerful story.
[2:46] The inspiration and emotional arc behind her dance piece, "(Tic)kled".
[5:20] Performing across the country and sparking conversations about TS through art.
[7:40] Getting diagnosed and the emotional release that came with finally having a name.
[10:17] How school accommodations and support systems made a real difference.
[12:51] Coping with an uptick in tics during college — what’s helping, and what isn’t.
[16:59] Why painting, movement, and solo dorm living are part of Marissa’s self-care.
[19:09] From competition dance to choreography—how performance has evolved for her.
[22:17] Teaching dance as a form of emotional storytelling and empowerment.
[24:56] Finding community through NJCTS and connecting with others who "get it".
[27:20] Marissa’s definition of inclusivity—and how it shows up in her life and work.
[30:07] Her lifelong connection to volunteering, including ASL education for young kids.
[35:38] Advice for others with TS: take it slow, speak up, and know you’re more than a label.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about NJ Walks for TS on May 17: https://p2p.onecause.com/njctswalk
• Marissa's Instagram: @marissalaz
• Marissa's piece, (Tic)kled: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHhePHctTJd

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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In this episode, I sit down with someone I’ve known and admired for years—Emily Fleischman. Emily is a nurse at Mount Sinai West in New York City and a longtime advocate within the Tourette Syndrome community. From her early days as a Youth Ambassador with NJCTS to publishing a children’s book about her experience with TS, Emily’s story is one of courage, transformation, and advocacy.

We dive into what it was like being diagnosed with Tourette and OCD as a child, how that affected her family dynamics, and the coping strategies she picked up along the way. Emily opens up about everything from therapy and medical massages to what helped—and didn’t help—her manage her tics over the years. We have a conversation packed with insights for parents, professionals, and anyone walking the TS journey.

Emily Fleischman, RN is a New Jersey native and NYC based nurse. Having grown up with TS and OCD, she brings personal and professional insights to our discussion, which centered around her story, including her diagnosis, family, tic management, and tips/advice for those with TS.

Episode Highlights:

[0:34] Getting to know Emily and her connection to NJCTS.
[1:54] Emily’s early diagnosis and the challenges that followed.
[4:00] Family dynamics and what it was like for her brother.
[7:05] Struggling in school, holding in tics, and reaching a breaking point.
[9:50] Becoming a Youth Ambassador and finding her voice through advocacy.
[11:39] Writing a children’s book about Tourette to reach younger audiences.
[13:50] Nursing career journey and the role empathy plays in her work.
[15:15] Educating hospital staff about Tourette from the inside out.
[16:01] Why nursing was the perfect fit—and how it supports her lifestyle.
[18:26] CBT, reward systems, and tools that helped as a kid.
[21:15] How adulthood has changed her relationship with tics and OCD.
[22:13] Emily breaks down ABA therapy and how it connects to her own experience.
[25:54] Practical parenting tips: more time in the morning, identifying triggers.
[26:40] Communication tips for loved ones when it comes to pointing out tics.
[28:06] Why meditation and yoga didn’t help—but massages did.
[29:34] Talking openly with kids about their diagnosis.
[31:27] Emily’s advice for those newly diagnosed with TS.

Links & Resources:

Emily’s children’s book: Emily’s Tic – Available on Amazon

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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What does it mean to be truly free in our creativity? How do obstacles—both personal and societal—shape the way we express ourselves? In this episode, I sit down with Sara Henya, a Philadelphia-based composer, singer, harpist, guitarist, pianist, and music teacher, to explore these questions and more. Sara shares her journey as an artist, her deep connection to the Tourette Syndrome (TS) community, and her reflections on neurodiversity, resilience, and self-acceptance.

We dive into her experiences at the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome’s events, the impact of music therapy, and the role of executive function in creative pursuits. Plus, we discuss the obstacles to creative freedom—both in general and specifically within the TS community—and how Sara has navigated them.

Episode Highlights:

[00:22] Introduction – Welcoming Sara Henya and diving into her background as a multi-talented musician and composer.

[2:40] The Power of Community – How Sara and I met through the NJCTS and our work with the Tim Howard Leadership Academy.

[7:32] Songwriting for Change – The process of writing an Academy song with students and the joy of collaborative creativity.

[9:21] Tourette’s and Creativity – How TS forces innovation and adaptability, shaping the artistic process in unexpected ways.

[14:03] Healing Through Music – Sara’s personal reflections on therapy, trauma, and using music as a tool for self-expression.

[20:00] Breaking Up with a Therapist – The importance of self-advocacy and knowing when to walk away from unhelpful therapy experiences.

[27:43] Neurodiversity Within TS – Understanding the vast range of experiences within the TS community and how it fosters resilience.

[33:08] Coping Strategies for ‘Bad Tic Days’ – Practical tools and techniques Sara uses to navigate high-tic days.

[44:47] Creative Freedom & Overcoming Blocks – How self-doubt and executive dysfunction can limit creativity, and strategies to push through.

[46:01] Sara’s Upcoming Projects – A sneak peek into her Philadelphia Fringe Festival show and where to find her music and videos.

Links & Resources:

🌐 Sara Henya’s Website – www.sarahenya.com
📘 Facebook – www.facebook.com/sarahenyaharpist

Tim Howard Leadership Academy

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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