The Mindful Living

Mindful Activism: Creating Sustainable Change with Mathias Lemos Castillo

In this transformative episode of The Mindful Living, host Sana sits down with DEI consultant and cultural bridge builder Mathias Lemos Castillo to explore the powerful intersection of mindfulness and activism. Mathias shares how we can create sustainable social change by integrating self-awareness, intentional communication, and emotional resilience into our advocacy work. From managing burnout to building inclusive spaces, this episode offers practical strategies and a compassionate framework for anyone looking to make a difference—without losing themselves in the process.About the Guest:Mathias Lemos Castillo is a strategic DEI consultant, cultural connector, and facilitator with years of experience guiding organizations toward inclusive, people-centered transformation. He specializes in empowering underrepresented communities and helping businesses develop sustainable, values-driven impact. Mathias leads with integrity, presence, and a deep belief in building movements that last.Key Takeaways:Mindful activism balances passion with self-care to avoid burnout.Words matter: conscious communication fuels effective DEI work.Rest and reflection are not passive—they are part of the activism.Different forms of activism—from education to digital to workplace—are all valid.Start with reflection: identify your cause, recover your energy, and take aligned action.Connect with Mathias Lemos Castillo:LinkedIn: Mathias Lemos CastilloWant to be a guest on The Mindful Living?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/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#mindfulliving #mindfulactivism #mathiaslemoscastillo #healthymindbyavik #socialimpact #mentalhealth #podmatch

Breaking Free from Covert Narcissism: A Conversation with Marie Birtel

In this soul-awakening episode of The Mindful Living with Sana, we are joined by Marie Birtel—psychological counselor, journalist, and author of I Love You When. Together, we dive deep into the world of covert narcissism, betrayal trauma, and toxic family systems. Marie vulnerably shares her personal story and professional insight on why so many of us stay in emotionally abusive relationships, and how to begin the healing process. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling trapped by emotional manipulation or struggling to reclaim their voice. Healing begins with awareness—and this conversation is your starting point.About the Guest:Marie Birtel is a trilingual psychological counselor, author, and advocate for survivors of covert narcissistic abuse. Based in France and Germany, she empowers women worldwide through her book I Love You When and personalized trauma recovery coaching. With firsthand experience and professional expertise, Marie helps others identify destructive patterns and find the strength to break free.Key Takeaways:Covert narcissism is subtle, manipulative, and often disguised as concern or victimhood.Betrayal trauma by a parent or caregiver is one of the deepest wounds—but healing is possible.You don’t need your parents to change to begin your own recovery.Finding the right therapist or support system is crucial—healing isn’t linear, but it is transformational.You are not crazy, and you are not alone. Choosing peace is an act of radical self-love.Connect with Marie Birtel:Website & Freebie Guide: mariebirtel.comOffers trauma-informed counseling in English, French, and German to clients around the world.Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living? 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/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/newandnew/#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

Designing a Mindful Life Through Retreats with Shannon Jamail

In this soul-nourishing episode of The Mindful Living with Sana, we sit down with Shannon Jamail, bestselling author, retreat leader, and founder of Retreat Ranch, to explore the power of mindfulness retreats in cultivating presence and intentional living. Shannon shares her personal journey from corporate life to mental health therapy, and how that path led her to create immersive, nature-based retreats that help people reconnect with themselves. She opens up about the transformative impact of stillness, vulnerability, and mindful pauses—especially in a world that glorifies busyness. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or new to the idea of mindfulness, this episode offers grounded insights, practical tools, and inspiring stories to help you create your own mindful sanctuary—right where you are.About the Guest:Shannon Jamail is the visionary behind Retreat Ranch, a 46-acre retreat space in Texas Hill Country, and founder of Mind & Body Complete. With over 15 years in mental health and wellness, she curates transformational experiences combining nature, community, and conscious leadership. Her Retreat Leader Academy also helps aspiring hosts design impactful, soulful retreats of their own.Key Takeaways:Retreats create the space for real inner transformation by removing daily stressors.Stillness can feel uncomfortable—but it’s often where the healing begins.Mindfulness can be practiced in bite-sized ways: nature walks, art, breathwork, or even 1-minute pauses.Resistance to mindfulness is normal; breakthroughs often happen when we lean into discomfort.You don’t need to travel far to access retreat-level peace—start by unplugging and stepping into nature, even briefly.Connect with Shannon:Explore Shannon’s retreats and programs at: https://www.mindbodycomplete.com/Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM Me on PodMatch: 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

Awaken Your Inner Universe: Conscious Living with Kerie Logan

In this enlightening episode of The Mindful Living, host Sana welcomes Kerie Logan—renowned therapist, empowerment strategist, and certified clinical hypnotherapist—for a soul-stirring conversation on human consciousness. Together, they explore how consciousness is more than brain function—it's a path to inner peace, transformation, and healing. From understanding the layers of 3D to 5D consciousness to using modalities like hypnotherapy, NLP, and past-life regression, Kerie reveals how we can shift from fear to freedom. The discussion dives deep into emotional resilience, generational trauma, energy healing, and creating sacred inner spaces for self-discovery.About the Guest:Kerie Logan is an award-winning hypnotherapist, empowerment coach, NLP practitioner, and host of Master the Upper Rooms Podcast. With over 20 years of global experience, she specializes in trauma-informed care, quantum healing, and guiding people toward elevated consciousness. Kerie’s grounded approach to spirituality and healing has helped thousands step into their true power and purpose.Key Takeaways:Consciousness evolves from societal conditioning to self-awareness and joy (3D to 5D thinking).Self-awareness is the ultimate tool for transformation and breaking free from ego-driven narratives.Hypnotherapy, NLP, and timeline therapy can heal trauma at both subconscious and generational levels.Safe spaces and mindful choices are essential for expanding consciousness in everyday life.Your environment, what you consume (mentally and emotionally), and your inner dialogue shape your energy and healing journey.Connect with Kerie Logan:Website: ⁠https://empoweredwithin.com⁠Podcast: Master the Upper RoomsMeditation App: Insight TimerFree Consultation AvailableJust Google "Kerie Logan" for more links and resourcesWant to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM Me on PodMatch: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik⁠Subscribe to Newsletter: ⁠https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/⁠Join the 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

Meditation, Motherhood & Momentum: Katie Krimitsos on Mindful Living in a Fast-Paced World

In this episode of The Mindful Living, we welcome Katie Krimitsos—founder of the Women’s Meditation Network—for a heart-centered conversation on how meditation empowers women to lead with intention, even in life’s busiest seasons. Katie shares how trusting her intuition during pregnancy led her to create a global meditation platform, helping millions of women slow down and reconnect. From building a 6-figure business to launching 20+ meditation shows while raising a family, Katie offers practical tools for finding presence amidst pressure. Whether you're an entrepreneur, parent, or simply seeking peace, this episode reminds us that stillness isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline.About the Guest:Katie Krimitsos is the CEO of the Women’s Meditation Network, a global podcast network offering daily meditations for women. With over 170 million downloads, Katie has redefined how meditation fits into everyday life—meeting women where they are, whether it’s in the shower or school drop-off. Her mission is to help women access their inner voice and design lives aligned with their deepest truth.Key Takeaways:Meditation is a gateway to self-awareness and soul alignment.Intuition is powerful—listen, trust, and take aligned action.Stillness can coexist with ambition.Start small: 5 deep breaths can change your entire day.Success doesn't require burnout; presence is your true power.How to Connect with Katie:Website: womensmeditationnetwork.comListen: Search “Women’s Meditation Network” on your favorite podcast platformWant to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM on PodMatch → DM Me HereSubscribe to Newsletter → Join HereJoin Community → Be a Part of ItStay Tuned and Follow Us!YouTube: Healthy Mind, Healthy LifeInstagram: @podhealth.clubThreads: @podhealth.clubFacebook: Podcast HealthymindLinkedIn: Avik #mindfulliving #katietalksmeditation #womeninwellness #meditationformoms #healthymindbyavik #podmatch #selfawareness

Breath, Resilience & the Power of Alignment with David Frost

In this empowering episode of The Mindful Living, host Sana is joined by David Frost, retired U.S. Navy veteran, master fitness trainer, and founder of Well Past 40. David opens up about his inspiring journey from a debilitating back injury to becoming a world champion rower—and how mindful breathing and mind-body alignment became the cornerstone of his transformation. Discover how David’s “MBA” (Mind-Body Alignment) lifestyle, his powerful “I CHOOSE” method, and the 7S model can redefine health at any age. Learn why breathwork, hugs, and even pet love can be life-changing, especially when it comes to chronic pain and aging. Whether you’re starting your wellness journey or looking to reconnect with your body, this episode is packed with wisdom, science, and heart.About the Guest:David Frost is a retired U.S. Navy veteran and a world-class master fitness trainer who overcame a major back injury in 2001. Founder of Well Past 40, David helps people thrive beyond midlife through mindful movement, breathwork, and strength training. He is also the author of several wellness books and an advocate for redefining aging through functional fitness and joyful living.Key Takeaways:Mindful breathing isn’t trendy—it’s transformative.David’s “I CHOOSE” acronym offers a holistic guide to health: Immersion, Chemistry, Hydration, Oxygen, Oxidative stress, Sleep, and Exercise.Chronic pain can be better managed with breath, hugs, and pet therapy.Overtraining can harm the heart; low-intensity, consistent exercise is key to longevity.The “7S” model—Strength, Stability, Stamina, Stretching, Sleep, Stress management, and Sustenance—helps build a strong physical portfolio well into later life.Connect with David Frost:Email: dave@wellpast40.comWebsite: www.wellpast40.orgInstagram: @davidemersonfrostWant to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life?DM on PodMatch - Send me a message:DM Me HereSubscribe To NewsletterJoin CommunityStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTubeInstagramThreadsFacebookLinkedIn#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

Build Success Without Burnout — Nervous System Support & Soulful Scaling with Heidi Weiland

In this heartfelt episode of The Mindful Living with Sana, we explore what it means to build sustainable success from the inside out. Joining us is Heidi Weiland, a holistic business coach for sensitive solopreneurs, who shares her journey from burnout and overworking to building a soulful business aligned with her values and nervous system. From redefining productivity to honoring your body’s signals, this episode offers a refreshing take on self-care, energy alignment, and building a business without sacrificing your health or spirit.About the Guest:Heidi Weiland is a holistic business coach and founder of Service With Soul, supporting sensitive solopreneurs and high achievers to scale their businesses with intention, nervous system support, and soul alignment. Her approach blends business strategy with energy awareness, boundaries, and human design insights to help you grow sustainably.Key Takeaways:Burnout often starts in the body — listen to the physical signs.Nervous system regulation is essential for business sustainability.Human Design can reveal your energy flow and optimal decision-making strategies.Your business should align with your values, not just your revenue goals.Start with small, restorative self-care rituals and build a 6–12 month grounded business plan.Support systems (coaches, accountability buddies, or Yoga partners) are key to staying regulated.It's okay to hustle — as long as it's intentional and balanced with recovery.Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Website: https://servicewithsoul.coFree Business Assessment for Sensitive Solopreneurs – available on Heidi’s websiteSoulful Scaling Coaching Program – explore Heidi’s coaching offering for sensitive entrepreneursHuman Design in Business – insight into energy flow, decision-making, and aligned planningNervous System Support Strategies – grounding tools to reduce overwhelm and anxietyConnect with Heidi Weiland:Visit https://servicewithsoul.co/Explore coaching, free resources, and connect via social media from her site.Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM 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/#mindfulliving #burnoutrecovery #soulfulscaling #nervoussystemsupport #healthymind #holisticbusiness #healinghustle #podmatch

Empowering Women Through AI: Personal & Professional Growth with Nicole Hilgenkamp

In this powerful episode of The Mindful Living with Sana, corporate transformation expert Nicole Hilgenkamp breaks down how AI can empower women at home and at work. With over 20 years of leadership in procurement and innovation, Nicole shares practical ways women can use AI for stress relief, better time management, personal development, and career advancement. She talks about navigating AI bias, using tools mindfully, and how leaders can keep the human touch while scaling with tech. If you've ever felt left behind in tech or intimidated by AI, this episode will shift your mindset and show you how to start small—with childlike curiosity.About the Guest:Nicole Hilgenkamp is a corporate strategist, AI enablement leader, and mother of three. With 20+ years in business innovation, Nicole now helps professionals and companies transform through AI. She advocates for women in tech and leads communities like She Is AI, She Leads AI, and Women Defining AI—all of which are linked on her LinkedIn. Her practical, heart-centered approach to AI helps women take back time, reduce burnout, and build fulfilling, tech-enabled lives.Key Takeaways:AI is not just tech—it’s your coach, planner, and strategist. Nicole uses it for everything from managing emails to parenting support.Women are underrepresented in AI literacy. Only 23% are currently AI-enabled—now is the time to close that gap.Bias in AI is real. Nicole explains how women can challenge biased outputs and train AI to reflect diversity.You don’t need to code. AI is intuitive and can teach you in simple terms—just start asking questions.Start small. Use AI to create shopping lists, reduce decision fatigue, or even simulate a coaching session.Join communities. Nicole recommends groups like She Is AI and Women Defining AI for support and growth.Data privacy matters. Be mindful of what you input—no personal or sensitive info should go into public models.Human touch still matters. AI can support you, but empathy and connection should stay at the heart of leadership.Connect with Nicole:LinkedIn: Nicole HilgenkampCommunities: She Is AI, She Leads AI, Women Defining AI (Find all links in her LinkedIn bio)Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM on PodMatch → DM Me HereSubscribe To Newsletter → Subscribe HereJoin Our Community → Join HereStay Tuned And Follow Us!YouTubeInstagramThreadsFacebookLinkedIn#podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness

How to Pivot into Your Second Act with Confidence — featuring Shannon Russell

In this empowering episode of The Mindful Living with Sana, we sit down with Shannon Russell — career transition coach, business strategist, and founder of Second Act Success — to talk about how to recognize when your career no longer aligns with your life, and how to mindfully pivot into your next chapter. From walking away from a 16-year TV production career to becoming a multi-passionate entrepreneur and author, Shannon shares practical tools on identifying your transferable skills, crafting an exit strategy, and overcoming fear and guilt when choosing yourself.About the Guest:Shannon Russell is the CEO of Second Act Success, a certified career coach, podcast host, and soon-to-be author of At Your Second Act. After spending 16 successful years in television production, she transitioned into entrepreneurship to gain more flexibility and purpose. Now, she helps women design meaningful second acts using their existing skills and passions.Key Takeaways:Trust the signs that it's time to pivot — burnout isn’t always loud.Your past experiences carry valuable transferable skills — make a list and reflect.Guilt is common, especially for women — but choosing joy isn’t selfish.Creating an exit strategy (financial, mental, emotional) can make your transition smoother.You don’t have to announce your plan early — get confident first, then communicate mindfully.Connect with Shannon Russell:Visit startyoursecondact.com for free resources, book updates, and podcast episodes.Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living?DM 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

Choosing You: Vesta Hurlbutt on Mindful Living, Self-Forgiveness & Emotional Freedom

In this soulful episode of The Mindful Living, host Sana welcomes Vesta Hurlbutt—empowerment strategist, cardiovascular technologist, Ho'oponopono practitioner, and health coach. A resilient single mother, Vesta dives deep into the essence of mindful living, emotional healing, and the powerful practice of choosing yourself. From redefining meditation to transforming handwashing into a mindfulness ritual, Vesta shares her deeply personal journey of self-discovery, self-forgiveness, and letting go of control. Whether you're a caregiver, a busy parent, or someone on a healing journey, this episode is a gentle yet powerful reminder that mindfulness begins with small, intentional choices.About the Guest:Vesta Hurlbutt is a heart-led empowerment coach and health professional based in Hawaii. A single mom and seasoned healer, Vesta guides individuals toward reclaiming their self-worth through mindfulness, forgiveness, and emotional freedom. Her podcast, Open Heart Healing, and her daily gratitude practice, “rampage of appreciation,” are at the core of her mission to inspire transformation from within.Key Takeaways:Mindfulness is about presence—not perfection.Emotional freedom starts with forgiving yourself, not just others.Small acts like journaling or appreciating your morning coffee can shift your entire mindset.Mindfulness helps release control, especially in parenting.True self-care isn’t luxury—it’s choosing yourself in small, consistent ways.Connect with Vesta Hurlbutt:Instagram & Facebook: [Search “Vesta Hurlbutt” – she’s one of a kind!]Podcast: Open Heart Healing PodcastDM her directly for support and guidance.Want to be a guest on The Mindful Living? 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