Mind Over Matter

From Rock Bottom to Karuna: Ben McQueen’s Journey of Sobriety, Kava, and Community Healing

In this transformative episode of Mind Over Matter, host Saima welcomes Ben McQueen, founder of Karuna Kava Bar and Beverage Company, who shares how kava—a traditional South Pacific root—helped him reclaim his life after years of alcohol addiction. From being homeless to launching a nationwide kava brand, Ben’s story is one of resilience, hope, and human connection. He reveals how kava not only eased his cravings but also introduced him to a vibrant community rooted in sobriety and purpose. If you’re exploring alternatives to alcohol or seeking a more grounded path to healing, this is your sign.About the Guest:Ben McQueen is the founder of Karuna Kava, a beverage company and community hub redefining what sober social spaces can look like. After battling addiction from a young age, Ben found healing in kava and turned it into a mission—now serving thousands across the U.S. through Karuna’s kava bars and ready-to-drink products.Key Takeaways:Kava is a natural, non-addictive root that offers calm, clarity, and community—without the chaos of alcohol.Healing begins with connection: Karuna Kava isn’t just a bar—it’s a sober, inclusive gathering space for real conversation and laughter.Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether through kava, therapy, or spiritual paths—hope and healing are always possible.Ben’s entrepreneurial journey shows how starting small (like a farmer’s market stall) can evolve into nationwide impact.Misconceptions about kava’s safety are largely outdated—traditional kava, when prepared properly, is safe and powerful.Connect with Ben McQueen:Explore Karuna Kava’s products and community: https://karunakava.comUse code SUMMER for 20% off your first order!Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PodMatch - Send me a message:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #kava #sobrietyjourney #healingalternatives #recoveryispossible

Glow From Within: Hormone Harmony & Skin Vitality with Ana Pang

In this powerful episode of Mind Over Matter, we’re joined by Ana Pang—menopause skin and vitality specialist—who is redefining what it means to thrive in midlife. With over 20 years of experience integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern skincare science, Ana shares how hormonal balance is the secret to radiant skin and sustained energy during menopause. From her personal battle with eczema to creating her own natural skincare line, Ana reveals why midlife is not a decline but a rebirth. If you’re ready to ditch the myths, nourish your body from within, and glow like never before, this is the episode for you.About the Guest:Ana Pang is a leading expert in menopausal skin and vitality, blending the philosophies of TCM with evidence-based skincare. At 47, she is a living example of how internal balance can create external radiance. Her programs focus on gut nourishment, herbal teas, natural oils, face yoga, and holistic stress management to restore hormonal harmony and skin health.Key Takeaways:Aging skin is not inevitable—hormonal imbalance is often the root cause.Menopause is a sensitive, sacred phase that requires a new wellness approach.Hydration with herbal teas like green or chamomile tea is a game-changer.Natural skincare and inner nourishment lead to glowing skin and vitality.Confidence blooms when you care for your body holistically.Connect with Ana Pang:Explore Ana’s offerings and book your free assessment at: www.menopauseskincare.lifeWant to be a guest on Mind Over Matter?DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

From Burnout to Balance: Yvonne Lee-Hawkins on Healing, Energy & Leadership

In this powerful episode of Mind Over Matter, we sit down with Yvonne Lee-Hawkins — corporate leader turned holistic coach — to unpack the emotional, physical, and energetic toll of burnout. Yvonne shares her personal wake-up calls, from decision fatigue to dangerously high blood pressure, and how she redefined success without sacrificing well-being. She reveals how grounding, energy healing, and setting sacred boundaries became her path to true balance. Whether you're teetering on the edge or deep in the trenches of burnout, this conversation is a compassionate call to pause, reflect, and reclaim your vitality.About the Guest:Yvonne Lee-Hawkins is a leadership strategist and certified advanced pranic healer who empowers high-achievers to recover from burnout and realign with their purpose. After two major episodes of burnout during a thriving career, Yvonne now blends holistic practices with practical leadership tools to guide others toward sustainable success.Key Takeaways:Yvonne experienced burnout twice in her career — first mentally, then physically — realizing that high performance without self-care is unsustainable. She outlines the four burnout triggers: physical, mental, emotional, and energetic. A pivotal moment came when she couldn’t even choose a pair of socks — a metaphor for total overwhelm. Yvonne’s healing included grounding rituals, daily meditation, and the discovery of pranic energy healing, which reshaped how she manages stress and relationships. She also teaches clients how to set healthy boundaries at work without guilt — reframing self-care as strategic leadership. Her biggest non-negotiables? Quality sleep and honoring her energy. Burnout, Yvonne says, doesn’t have to mean failure; it can be the start of a more conscious, joy-filled chapter.Connect with Yvonne Lee-Hawkins:LinkedIn: [Search Yvonne Lee-Hawkins on LinkedIn for updates and offerings]Website: www.yvonneleehawkins.comWant to be a guest on Mind Over Matter? DM on PM:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #burnoutrecovery #energyhealing #leadership #holistichealth

Rewire Your Reality: The Healing Power of EFT with Sophia Torrini

In this transformative episode of Mind Over Matter, host Aanya sits down with Sophia Torrini, a clinical EFT practitioner and transformation catalyst, to explore the incredible healing potential of emotional freedom techniques, neuroplasticity, and energy medicine. After surviving a life-threatening illness and 16 years of debilitating health issues, Sophia discovered the missing link to true healing—processing and transmuting emotions. She shares how subconscious beliefs shape our physical health and how techniques like EFT can help us reprogram our reality, release trauma, and unlock true wellness.About the Guest:Sophia Torrini is a clinical EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) practitioner and transformation catalyst, trained under Dr. Joe Dispenza and the Hacking Reality framework. With a background in public health and energy medicine, she helps people rewire their subconscious minds and heal from emotional and physical pain. Through her platform TapIntoYourBestSelf.com, Sophia offers free consultations, masterclasses, and educational resources on brain science and healing.Key Takeaways:The body can’t heal in fight-or-flight; healing requires activating the parasympathetic system.EFT helps release stored emotional pain and allows physical healing to occur.Our subconscious beliefs, not conscious desires, often dictate our reality.Healing requires both awareness and somatic release—not just meditation.Neuroplasticity makes it possible to rewrite limiting memories into empowering beliefs.Healing begins with curiosity, compassion, and consistent emotional practice.Connect with Sophia Torrini:Website: TapIntoYourBestSelf.comGet free consultations, masterclasses, and blogs on neuroscience and emotional healing.Want to be a guest on Mind Over Matter? DM on PMDM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

From Burnout to Balance: How High-Achieving Women Can Reclaim Energy with Maddison Sutton

In this insightful episode of Mind Over Matter, we sit down with Maddison Sutton, Certified Integrative Health Coach and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, who helps high-achieving women escape the burnout trap. Maddison shares why burnout isn’t a flaw—it’s a signal that something deeper is out of alignment. We dive into how chronic stress hijacks your hormones, wrecks your nervous system, and impacts everything from sleep to digestion to emotional health. Maddison reveals practical steps to shift from survival mode to sustainable ease, including daily rituals, nervous system regulation techniques, and how to reconnect with your body’s natural rhythm. If you're tired of pushing and ready to flow, this episode is your starting point.About the Guest – Maddison Sutton:Maddison Sutton is a Certified Integrative Health Coach and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner dedicated to helping high-performing women reclaim their energy, heal their hormones, and create a life of balance. With over 15 years in holistic wellness, she blends science and soul to guide clients toward true well-being.Key Takeaways:Burnout is not just about doing too much—it's often about chronic misalignment and unregulated stress.Stress isn’t just mental—it creates real hormonal imbalances, impacts your gut, sleep, and immunity.Nervous system regulation is a game-changer; even one minute of breathwork can reset your system.Sustainable change starts with small acts of self-attunement—like asking “What do I need today?”Flow isn’t found, it’s created—through intentional choices and honoring your body’s signals.Connect with Maddison Sutton:Instagram: @maddisonsuttonwellnessWebsite: www.maddisonsutton.comWant to be a guest on Mind Over Matter?DM on PodMatch: DM Me HereSubscribe to the Newsletter: Click HereJoin the Community: Click HereStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube: @healthymind-healthylifeInstagram: @podhealth.clubThreads: @podhealth.clubFacebook: facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/newandnew#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #burnoutrecovery #hormonehealth #mindbodyconnection #womeninwellness

From Trauma to Transformation: Rewriting Your Story with Kurt Bush

In this powerful episode of Mind Over Matter, trauma-informed coach and certified IFS practitioner Kurt Bush shares how our earliest “first formations” unconsciously shape our adult lives. From childhood conditioning to autopilot reactions, Kurt explains how awareness, reflection, and internal family systems (IFS) can unlock a path to healing. Discover the transformational power of his simple yet profound formula: Encounter + Reflection = Transformation. Whether you lead a team, a family, or just yourself, this episode offers a soul-deep invitation to pause, reflect, and reclaim your inner truth.About the Guest:Kurt Bush is a trauma-informed coach, certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) practitioner, and co-founder of Brimstone Coaching Group. With a unique blend of compassion and strategy, Kurt helps individuals reframe their internal narratives and step into empowered, self-led lives. His work centers on healing first formation wounds, cultivating self-awareness, and creating sustainable change from the inside out.Key Takeaways:“First formations” shape our responses and beliefs, often without us realizing it.Self-awareness is the gateway to transformation—once you see a pattern, you can choose to change it.The difference between what happened and the meaning we make is a critical leadership and personal growth insight.IFS (Internal Family Systems) helps us welcome back exiled parts of ourselves—like anger or sadness—to move toward wholeness.Reflection is the daily practice that fuels long-term change. Just 5 minutes a day can shift your life trajectory.Connect with Kurt Bush:To learn more about Kurt’s coaching or inquire about working with him, visit Brimstone Coaching GroupWant to be a guest on Mind Over Matter?DM on PodMatchDM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

Healing from the Root: Lillian Easterly-Smith on Trauma, Addiction & the Power of Aruka Ranch

In this soul-stirring episode of Mind Over Matter, Lillian Easterly-Smith, founder of Aruka Ranch, dives deep into the often-missed truth: addiction is a symptom, not the root. From her own journey through addiction to helping thousands find real healing, Lillian shares why relapse happens, the connection between addiction and human trafficking, and how true recovery requires emotional, neurological, and spiritual restoration. She breaks down core emotions, explains why behavior modification isn't enough, and outlines how Aruka Ranch’s trauma-informed, holistic approach sets a new standard for healing.About the Guest:Lillian Easterly-Smith is a trauma-informed recovery leader and founder of Aruka Ranch, a transformational healing space in Florida that combines neuroscience, emotional healing, and holistic practices to support those battling addiction, trauma, and human trafficking recovery. Her work is inspired by her personal experience and deep compassion for those who’ve suffered in silence.Key Takeaways:Relapse often occurs when root trauma is unaddressed.Addiction is typically a coping mechanism for unresolved pain, not a moral failing.Aruka Ranch focuses on brain health, emotional processing, animal therapy, and spiritual recovery.Survivors of trafficking often carry co-occurring addictions—trauma-informed care is essential.Healing is possible when individuals feel seen, safe, and supported to do deep emotional work.Connect with Lillian Easterly-Smith & Aruka Ranch:Visit www.arukaranch.org for programs, resources, and retreats.Want to be a guest on Mind Over Matter?DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avikSubscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymindStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/podhealth.club/Threads - https://www.threads.net/@podhealth.clubFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

How to mindfully Prepare for Disaster with Jennifer Heller

Disaster preparedness isn’t just for doomsday preppers—it’s for everyone. With extreme weather events becoming five times more likely than they were two decades ago, having a plan could mean the difference between chaos and control. In this episode, Jennifer Heller, founder of Here Comes the Apocalypse, shares simple, actionable steps to prepare your family for emergencies. From creating a go-bag to mapping out evacuation routes, this episode is packed with practical advice that could save lives.About the Guest – Jennifer Heller:Jennifer Heller is on a mission to make disaster preparedness accessible and realistic for families. As the creator of Here Comes the Apocalypse, she provides step-by-step guides that help people prepare without feeling overwhelmed. With her no-nonsense approach, Jennifer simplifies emergency readiness so families can feel confident and secure, no matter what comes their way.Key Takeaways:Disasters are increasing in frequency and severity – Being prepared is no longer optional.Go-bags aren’t enough – Planning meeting locations and evacuation routes is just as crucial.Paper maps and hard copies of important documents – In a crisis, you might not have access to digital files.Mental preparedness matters – Simple drills and discussions with your family can reduce panic.Preparedness is self-care – It gives you peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy life without fear.How to Connect with Jennifer Heller:Website: Here Comes the ApocalypseFree 5-Day Preparedness Challenge: Available on the websiteWant to Be a Guest on Mind Over Matter?Stay Tuned and Follow Us! DM on PodMatch: Send a MessageSubscribe to the Newsletter: Healthy Mind by AvikJoin the Community: Healthy MindYouTube: Healthy Mind - Healthy LifeInstagram: @podhealth.clubThreads: @podhealth.clubFacebook: Podcast: Healthy MindLinkedIn: New & NewIf this conversation got you thinking, share it with someone who needs to hear it. A little planning today can save lives tomorrow. Stay aware, stay prepared, and take control of your future!

Healing Through Energy, Grief, and Transformation with Leigh-Ann Larson

In this soul-nourishing episode of Mind Over Matter, Leigh-Ann Larson—therapist, psychic, grief educator, and retreat leader—guides us through a multidimensional approach to healing. She reveals how tapping, EMDR, energy psychology, and spiritual practices can help process trauma, grief, and emotional wounds. Leigh-Ann explains why healing isn’t just about treating symptoms but integrating the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of who we are. Whether you’re navigating loss, emotional pain, or simply seeking deeper self-connection, this episode offers powerful insights and tools to support your journey.About Leigh-Ann Larson:Leigh-Ann Larson is a therapist, energy healer, spirit medium, and grief educator who helps individuals unlock their true potential as energetic beings. As a retreat leader and CEO of a private group mental health practice, she merges science and spirituality to facilitate deep healing and transformation. She is also a leader in the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology and a certified Reiki master teacher.Key Takeaways:✔️ Healing is holistic – The mind, body, and spirit must work together for true transformation.✔️ Energy is everything – We are energetic beings, and our thoughts, emotions, and relationships all impact our energy.✔️ EMDR is life-changing – It’s one of the most effective tools for processing trauma and grief at a neurological level.✔️ Grief is not an end—it’s a transformation – Connecting with the energy of lost loved ones can provide deep healing.✔️ Boundaries are essential – Emotional vampires and toxic relationships can drain our energy and hinder healing.✔️ You are not broken – Healing isn’t about fixing yourself; it’s about reconnecting with your inner power.Connect with Leigh-Ann Larson:🌐 Website: Leigh-Ann Larson📩 Join Her Free Grief Community: Here📖 Subscribe to the Energy & Eternity Newsletter: Sign Up here🏕️ Retreats & Holistic Grief Coaching Certification: Learn MoreWant to Be a Guest on Mind Over Matter? 📩 DM me on PodMatch: Send a message here💌 Subscribe to the Newsletter: Join Here🤝 Join the Community: Connect on NAS.io📲 Stay Tuned & Follow Us!▶️ YouTube: @healthymind-healthylife📸 Instagram: @podhealth.club🧵 Threads: @podhealth.club📘 Facebook: Healthy Mind Podcast💼 LinkedIn: Avik’s Profile#MindOverMatter #HolisticHealing #EnergyPsychology #GriefHealing #SpiritualWellness #Podcast

Reinventing Your Career with Shannon Russell

In this episode of Mind Over Matter, Aanya sits down with Shannon Russell, a career transition coach, author, and speaker who empowers women to leave unfulfilling careers and build purpose-driven businesses. As the host of the Second Act Success Career Podcast and author of Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch Your Business, and Create Your Best Life, Shannon shares her expertise on navigating career shifts at any stage of life.Shannon shares the pivotal moment that led her to leave a 16-year career as a TV producer and transition into entrepreneurship.How to recognize the difference between needing a break vs. needing a change.Why age should never be a barrier to reinvention—whether you're in your 30s, 50s, or even 60s.The biggest mindset shifts needed to transition from employee to business owner.The power of research, planning, and confidence in making a smooth career pivot.About the Guest – Shannon Russell:Shannon Russell went from producing major TV shows in New York and LA to helping women define success on their own terms. Through her coaching, podcast, and book, she provides step-by-step guidance for anyone ready to pivot into a more fulfilling career or business.Key Takeaways:✔ Career transitions can happen at any stage—it’s never too late to start fresh.✔ Research breeds confidence—the more you explore your options, the easier it is to make a change.✔ Fear is normal, but it shouldn't hold you back—having a solid exit strategy can ease uncertainty.✔ Define success on your own terms—not what society expects of you.✔ Listen to your gut—if you feel stuck and unfulfilled, it’s time to explore what’s next.Connect with Shannon Russell:Book: Start Your Second ActPodcast: Second Act Success Career PodcastWebsite & Coaching: secondactsuccess.coWant to be a guest on Mind Over Matter? Stay Connected with Us!DM us on PodMatch: Send a Message Here🔹 Newsletter: Subscribe Here🔹 Community: Join Here🔹 YouTube: Watch Here🔹 Instagram: Follow Here🔹 Facebook: Like Here🔹 LinkedIn: Connect Here🎧 If you're feeling stuck or craving a change, this episode is for you! Tune in now and start designing your Second Act.