It's Your Life

Dr. Rebecca Mannis focuses on the growing challenges facing teens, including anxiety, social media pressures, test anxiety, and the impact of AI and technology on mental health and self-esteem. Dr. Mannis emphasizes that emotional well-being is strengthened when students develop healthy coping strategies, maintain balance between online and offline activities, and focus on self-worth beyond grades, likes, or external validation. She encourages teens to manage stress through organization, realistic expectations, supportive relationships, and self-care practices such as adequate sleep and mindfulness. Her message highlights that staying mentally strong in a fast-paced world is not about avoiding challenges but about building resilience, adaptability, and confidence to navigate them successfully.

Dr. Rebecca Mannis Biography

Dr. Rebecca Mannis is a learning specialist  with expertise both in neuropsychology and instruction / intervention /advocacy who is based in New York and has a global practice. Her program, Ivy Prep Learning Center, bridges neuropsychology or the brain science of learning and tactical support and intervention /enrichment across the lifespan. Masters Harvard Grad School of Education, where she also served as an appointee to the Ed School’s Alumni Council, PhD from Teachers College, Columbia U. Through her nonprofit, The Mannis Foundation, provides advocacy, programming and support for children and adults whose educational needs are not sufficiently met.

Social Media

Facebook: @ivypreplearningcenter

Facebook: Rebecca Mannis  

Twitter: @ivypreplearning

Instagram: @ivypreplearning

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/rebeccamannis

Website:

www.ivy-prep.com

This conversation with Dr. Michael Mantell focused on the connection between mental health, resilience, and overall well-being. Dr. Mantell shared insights on the importance of developing a positive mindset, managing stress effectively, and building healthy habits that support both emotional and physical health. He emphasized that personal growth begins with self-awareness and intentional choices, and that resilience can be strengthened through practice and perseverance. The discussion highlighted practical strategies for maintaining balance, overcoming challenges, and living a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Dr.Michael Mantell Biography

Dr. Michael Mantell, a Renowned and Esteemed Mental Health Architect, earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1976 and his MS in Clinical Psychology in 1972 from Hahnemann Medical College. He guides clients to disturb themselves less, by identifying, challenging, and restructuring irrational beliefs, helping them build a reliable foundation of rational, flexible thinking, and adopt healthier behaviors and attitudes. His expertise bridges the art and science of mental health, empowering clients to disturb themselves less and construct a mindset that enables them to respond to life’s challenges with resilience, acceptance, and self-compassion.

Throughout his career, Dr. Mantell has held various prestigious positions, including Chief Psychologist for Children's Hospital of San Diego, Chief Psychologist of the San Diego Police Department, and Chief Behavior Science Consultant for the American Council on Exercise. He was a co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Plus Size Certified, Inc. and is a member of the Science Advisory Council of the International Council on Active Aging. In addition, he served as Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UCSD Medical School, where he taught the Doctor-Patient Relationship course. He brings a specialty focus on physician wellbeing, physician burnout and elevating the patient experience. He has lectured at Pt. Loma Nazarene University and has provided a yearly 3-day Physician Wellness Studio for the American Society of Hematology. He is an invited guest instructor at Harvard University.

Dr. Mantell is a prolific author with four books to his name, including his recent work, "The Link is What You Think," "Ticking Bombs: Defusing Violence in the Workplace," and his iconic 1988 original "Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff PS: It’s All Small Stuff" and its 25th Anniversary Edition. Dr Mantell has been a member of SAG-AFTRA since 1981, Chair of its Election Committee and Vice-Chair of the Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee. He was elected to the Board of SAG-AFTRA San Diego in September, 2025. He’s been bringing psychology to the broadcast media for decades including regular appearances on Good Morning, America, Oprah Winfrey and weekly spots on local and nationwide news.

You can follow his free daily “MantellPoints2Ponder” on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with Dr. Debbie Joffe Ellis -licensed psychologist, licensed mental health counselor, presenter, writer and adjunct professor at Columbia University and Robin W. Thorburn - Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist.

 Show Summary

Today’s show discusses Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), developed by Albert Ellis, which teaches that emotional suffering is often intensified not only by difficult events themselves but by the beliefs and interpretations we attach to those events. REBT helps lessen emotional pain by identifying irrational thoughts, challenging unhelpful beliefs, and replacing them with more realistic and flexible ways of thinking.

Dr. Debbie Joffe Ellis Biography

Dr. Debbie Joffe Ellis was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. New York City has been her home base for the past two decades. She is a licensed psychologist (Australia), licensed mental health counselor (New York), presenter, writer and adjunct professor at Columbia University in New York City where she teaches Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Comparative Psychotherapies. For years she worked with her husband, the brilliant and renowned pioneer of modern cognitive therapies: Dr Albert Ellis, giving public presentations and professional trainings in his approach of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), as well as collaborating with him on writing and research projects until his death in 2007. Before his passing he stated and wrote that he entrusted her to continue his work. She is recognized as a world-renowned expert on REBT, and regularly presents, throughout the USA and in countries around the world, to students, academics, practitioners in the helping professions, and to members of the general public. She wrote the second edition of the book Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (published 2019) that she co-wrote with her husband in its first edition. She is also featured in a DVD produced by the American Psychological Association (APA) demonstrating and discussing the REBT approach. She has written chapters for various text books, articles, and has reviewed publications for APA’s PsycCritiques Journal. In 2014 she was named “Legend in Counseling” at the American Counseling Association annual conference, and has received various other awards and acknowledgments for her work. She recently was nominated by former American Psychological Association President, Dr Frank Farley, and renowned psychologist and author, Dr Stanley Krippner, to receive the American Psychological Association's International Division's "Global Citizen Award". She joyfully and passionately continues her mission of informing as many people as possible - through her presentations, teaching, writing, and the ways she strives to ‘walk her talk’ - that each one of us has the power to create our emotional destinies despite and including challenging circumstances, and through teaching the ‘how-to’s’ of doing so!

Website

www.debbiejoffeellis.com

Robin W. Thorburn ADHP (NC) MNRHP FNSHP UKCP (H) Biography

Robin W. Thorburn, the founder of Exclusive Hypnotherapy Edinburgh, is one of the UK’s leading Hypno-Psychotherapists.  He has 33 years verifiable clinical experience and has successfully conducted over 20,000 Hypno-Psychotherapy sessions.

Robin has literally helped thousands of clients who have experienced debilitating panic attacks, phobias, anxiety, stress, insomnia, low self-confidence/esteem/self-worth, unexplained infertility, anger management, depression, imposter syndrome, public speaking and blushing, guilt, irritable bowel syndrome, unexplained infertility, pain control, sports psychology and enhancement of business performance,   He is also remarkably successful working with people who wish to stop smoking/vaping, improve weight loss or require, life coaching,  sexual and relationship problems are also helped with, as is bereavement.

 Website

www.exclusivehypnotherapy.co.uk 

A seated conversation with our royal guests from Ghana about their visit to the United States, receiving honorary doctorate degrees, and sharing their kingdom’s vision, philanthropic efforts, community impact, and partnerships with organizations dedicated to helping others.

Show Summary:

A Royal Week Of Festivities In Dallas Texas Hosted By Black Women Who Want MORE. 

We don't plan events, we create experiences. Starting Wednesday May 20th, The Queens Of 

Black Women Who Want More, will host the Kings Of Ghana at multiple celebrations, a graduation, a book signing and a global "mastermind" with international Thought Leaders.  

Tune In To Find Out How You Can Be A Part Of This Memorable LIVE event which will be streamed online and open to the public.  

Dr. Renee Toppin: Guest

Dr. Renee Toppin the Founder/CEO of Black Women Who Want More Academy is a highly accomplished Whole Life Empowerment Coach with more than 25 years of experience transforming lives through her distinctive coaching and training approach. As a dynamic professional public speaker, she motivates audiences worldwide and maintains a global social media presence exceeding 700,000 followers, with strong engagement across the United States, Nigeria, South Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean.

She has appeared on CNN as a surrogate for a former U.S. President and has been featured on numerous radio, television, and talk shows. Renowned for her powerful communication and impactful delivery, Ms. Toppin attracts women from around the globe to her online programs, classes, and courses.

As a licensed Evangelist, Ms. Toppin integrates biblical principles and the Word of God into her Life Coaching Academy, empowering women to pursue holistic personal growth—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially. Through multiple successful business ventures, she has expanded into global markets, ensuring sustainable growth and broad impact. She leads a team of elite coaches specializing in finance, health and wellness, accountability, spiritual awareness, book writing and publishing, and essential life coping skills.

Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with Jason Gootman - a Mayo Clinic Certified Wellness Coach and National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach as well as a certified nutritionist and certified exercise physiologist.

Summary:

This conversation explores the complex relationship between wellness, self-acceptance, and personal transformation — examining whether weight is a root cause of health challenges or a reflection of broader physical and emotional wellness. It also looks at how weight-loss medications are reshaping public attitudes toward obesity, treatment, and accountability, while highlighting the deeply empowering effect many people experience when losing weight and reclaiming control over their health and confidence.

Jason Gootman Biography

Jason Gootman is a Mayo Clinic Certified Wellness Coach and National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach as well as a certified nutritionist and certified exercise physiologist. Jason helps people reverse and prevent type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other ailments with evidence-based approaches to nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, holistic wellness, and, most importantly, lasting behavior improvement and positive habit formation. As part of this work, Jason often helps people lose weight and keep it off, in part by helping them overcome the common challenges of yo-yo dieting and emotional eating. Jason helps people go from knowing what to do and having good intentions to consistently taking great care of themselves in ways that help them add years to their lives and life to their years.

Social Media

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasongootman/

https://www.facebook.com/jasongootman

https://www.instagram.com/jasongootman/

https://x.com/jasongootman

In this episode, Dr. Stephen Sideroff explores the concept of going beyond burnout by introducing what he calls “burn-up”—a state of chronic stress where individuals continue functioning on the surface but are internally depleted, overwhelmed, and at risk of breaking down. He explains how to recognize the warning signs of burn-up, from constant fatigue to emotional disconnection, and outlines the serious risks it poses to both mental and physical health. With life becoming faster and more complex, Dr. Sideroff shares practical strategies to reverse this condition and build true resilience, emphasizing the importance of sustainable habits and mindset shifts. He also introduces his “9 pillars of resilience,” offering a structured approach to regaining balance, improving well-being, and thriving despite ongoing challenges.

Dr. Stephen Sideroff Biography

Dr. Stephen Sideroff is an internationally recognized expert in resilience, optimal performance, addiction, neurofeedback and alternative approaches to stress and mental health.

He is Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, with a joint appointment in the Department of Rheumatology at UCLA’s School of Medicine, as well as the Director of the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Ethics.

For over 40 years, Dr. Sideroff has been passionate about studying and understanding resilience and optimal performance.  He has developed and established innovative models of behavior and treatment approaches for restoring physical, emotional and mental balance and effectiveness in North America, Europe and Asia.

Dr. Sideroff presents seminars and professional training programs nationally and internationally.  He has conducted cutting edge research in brain and behavior at UC Irvine, McGill University in Montreal and UCLA.  His published research using Neurofeedback in substance abuse is a model for applying this innovative approach and he has helped to establish such programs at Sierra Tucson Treatment Center and other addiction treatment facilities. 

He has applied a similar approach in research designed to alleviate symptoms related to cancer and cancer treatment.  He was the director of the UCLA certification course in addiction for over 30 years. Dr. Sideroff helped establish the Gestalt Therapy clinic in Los Angeles, and is also the founder and former Clinical Director of Stress Strategies, a hospital based program addressing stress, burnout and psychosomatic conditions at UCLA/Santa Monica hospital.

In 2001 Dr. Sideroff was invited to China for the first of his pioneering visits to bring biofeedback, neurofeedback and his approach to behavioral medicine to the hospitals and universities of the People’s Republic of China. He was named Joint Director of China-US Biofeedback Training and served as the first Director of continuing education for the entire country from 2001 through 2005.

Dr. Sideroff was a co-founder and the Clinical Director of Moonview Treatment and Optimal Performance Center from 1998 to 2012.  He helped develop the programs that became the foundation for Moonview, a unique treatment and optimal performance center that brought together wisdom and approaches from all over the world, both new and ancient.

As Clinical Director, he integrated the skills and approaches of some of the most respected clinicians in the field to establish the Moonview Model, a trademarked treatment method that utilizes a novel team approach and a combination of mind, body and spiritual modalities. It created a unique synergy and integrative approach yielding breakthroughs in healing and optimal functioning. Currently, Dr. Sideroff uses this approach in his work with executives that he calls, The Path.

Dr. Sideroff has written and produced a number of self-help audio programs aimed at helping individuals develop greater resilience including: “Stress control with biofeedback” (which has been translated into four languages and has sold over 50,000 copies), “Journey into Sleep”, “Resilience”, “Peak Performance in Golf”, and “Resilient Living”, in which he presents his new and innovative nine component model of resilience. His book, The Nine Pillars of Resilience and Success takes readers on a journey of discovery, healing and growth that has been referred to as a “true bible for living in balance and spirituality.”

A former college handball champion, Dr. Sideroff specializes in the strategies of peak performance in sports and the science of optimal functioning in all areas of life.  He is a member of an elite sports psychology association called “The Mind Room”, first established in conjunction with AC Milan soccer.

He has worked with a number of elite athletes, as well as teams, including the UCLA men’s basketball team, the Pepperdine men’s basketball team, the UCLA women’s golf team, the US Men’s National soccer team, and the Nike women’s beach volleyball team.  He has translated his experience with athletes into innovative performance strategies with executives and others that he calls, The Path.

Website

https://drstephensideroff.com/

Social Media

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/stephen.sideroff/

Instagram-  [email protected]    Charts12!

LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/drstephensideroff/

X- https://x.com/DrSideroff

Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@dr.stephensideroff9170

Robin W. Thorburn focuses on helping individuals rewire subconscious patterns that drive anxiety, enabling calmer and more adaptive responses. The discussion also addresses breaking conditional beliefs around self-worth to build a more stable and intrinsic sense of identity. Finally, it explores developing confidence through action and managing modern stress by reducing overwhelm and improving mental resilience.  

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Robin W. Thorburn - Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist.

·       Anxiety – Rewiring the Subconscious Response

·       Self-Worth – Breaking Conditional Identity

·       Confidence – From Hesitation to Action

·       Stress – Managing the Modern Overload

Robin W. Thorburn ADHP (NC) MNRHP FNSHP UKCP (H)

Biography

Robin W. Thorburn, the founder of Exclusive Hypnotherapy Edinburgh, is one of the UK’s leading Hypno-Psychotherapists.  He has 33 years verifiable clinical experience and has successfully conducted over 20,000 Hypno-Psychotherapy sessions.

Robin has literally helped thousands of clients who have experienced debilitating panic attacks, phobias, anxiety, stress, insomnia, low self-confidence/esteem/self-worth, unexplained infertility, anger management, depression, imposter syndrome, public speaking and blushing, guilt, irritable bowel syndrome, unexplained infertility, pain control, sports psychology and enhancement of business performance,   He is also remarkably successful working with people who wish to stop smoking/vaping, improve weight loss or require, life coaching,  sexual and relationship problems are also helped with, as is bereavement.

Website

www.exclusivehypnotherapy.co.uk 

Dr. Diana Londoño, a board-certified urologist, will explore the powerful connection between emotional states and physical health, emphasizing how our inner experiences directly influence disease and healing. She will explain how the nervous system responds differently to fear and love—fear activating stress pathways that can weaken immunity and contribute to chronic illness, while love and safety promote balance, repair, and overall well-being. By contrasting the physiological and psychological impacts of fear versus love, she highlights how our emotional patterns can either harm or support our health. Central to her discussion is the idea that gratitude serves as a transformative bridge, fostering abundance, deeper human connection, and improved health by shifting the body and mind into a more resilient and harmonious state.

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Dr. Diana Londoño - Board-Certified Urologist and International Speaker and guest on multiple podcasts.

·       How Your Emotions Shape Your Health and Nervous System

·       Rewiring the Nervous System Through Love and Gratitude

·       Gratitude as Medicine: Bridging Emotion, Nervous System, and Well-Being

Dr. Diana Londoño

Biography

Dr. Diana Londoño is a Board-Certified Urologist and one of the 12% of urologists in the US who are women and the 0.5% who are Latinx and women.  She is originally from Mexico City, attended Claremont McKenna College for her undergraduate studies, and then went on to UCLA for medical school. She completed a 6-year residency in Urology at Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles.

She is an international speaker and guest on multiple podcasts, discussing topics including wellness, humanity in medicine, mindset, and urology. She has also appeared on Univision, Telemundo, Mundo Fox, CNN Latino, and KCET, and has been published in Kevin MD, Medscape, WebMD, and Men’s Health. She is a contributing author to books on burnout and heart-centered leadership.

She focuses on understanding and integrating the power of emotions as they interplay in our disease or wellness. She believes love should be the foundation and at the forefront of healthcare and our personal health, and that when we integrate and align our physical, emotional, spiritual, and energetic facets, we can attain true healing.

She is a Reiki Master and a Certified Pranic (Energy) Healer and the mother of two determined and joyful 7 and 10-year-old girls, Daniela and Paloma. 

Websites/Social Media
Dr. Diana Londoño - Urology, Prostate, Kidney Stones (dianalondonomd.com)

Diana (Thorne) Londoño, MD | LinkedIn

Diana Londoño, MD. Urologist, Life Coach. (@dianalondonomd) • Instagram photos and videos

https://www.youtube.com/@dianalondonomd

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Kim Downey – Physical Therapist, Physician Advocate, and Author.

·       Every time a doctor shares their story, another doctor feels less alone

·       Medicine is a life of sacrifice for the whole family

·       Stories of patient gratitude to their doctors

·       Upcoming physician retreat 

Summary:

White Coats, Human Hearts: True Stories of Healing, Belonging, and the Courage to Stay Human in Medicine by Kim Downey is a collection of deeply personal narratives that illuminate the emotional realities of healthcare professionals striving to preserve their humanity within a demanding medical system. Building on themes from her earlier work, the book highlights stories of struggle—such as burnout, trauma, and moral injury—while also emphasizing resilience, connection, and the importance of compassion in medicine. Through these firsthand accounts, Downey underscores the need for belonging, empathy, and systemic change, offering a hopeful vision for a more humane healthcare culture that honors both patients and providers as whole people.  

Biography

Kim Downey, founder of Stand Up (for) Doctors!, is a physical therapist, three-time cancer survivor, and fierce advocate for physician well-being. As an Ambassador for the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Clinician Burnout Foundation, and Community Ambassador for Medicine Forward, she brings deep insight into both the clinical and human sides of medicine. She amplifies the voices of doctors and patients, addressing challenges like burnout, moral injury, and loss of autonomy. Kim’s mission is to foster connection and advocacy for healthier doctors and a stronger healthcare system.   

Website

https://standupfordoctors.org/

Social Media

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-downey-a9307b72/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575836827532

https://www.youtube.com/@StandupforDoctors

While the helpful function of fear is most obvious, alerting us to potential threats in our environment to keep us safe, even the experiences of grief, shame, resentment, envy, and low mood are helpful, if we can learn to hold them, understand their messages, and identify what’s a helpful alarm for the current situation, and what might be a false alarm that may more resemble a past threat or be based on misunderstanding.  Our smoke alarms are set to have many false alarms—it’s better to be safe than sorry—as we don’t want to miss any fires.  But  once we identify the alarm is going off, we still need to investigate the situation to see if there’s actually a fire right now, or if a false alarm of our bagel burning in the toaster.

Our shame alarms warns us that we are potentially in a rejecting or psychologically environment so we must hide parts of ourselves to fit in, or find a healthier group of people.

The resentment alarm tells us when we need healthier boundaries. 

The guilt alarm tells us we’ve caused hurt or harm and need to be accountable and repair the situation.

The low mood alarm tells us the rewards of the environment don’t outway the potential risks so we need to find a new environment or approach or hibernate until the rewards come back

The grief alarm is a compass to our heart, showing us what’s important so we can rebuild it.

The envy alarm tells us what needs are unmet in us, that others have

Show Highlights

Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Dr. Joanna Cheek - Canadian psychiatrist, award-winning professor at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine, speaker, researcher, group facilitator, meditation teacher and psychotherapist.

·       Resentment Alarm

·       Guilt Alarm

·       Low Mood Alarm

·       Grief Alarm

·       The Envy Alarm

Biography

Joanna Cheek, M.D., is a Canadian psychiatrist, award-winning professor at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Medicine, speaker, researcher, group facilitator, meditation teacher, psychotherapist trained in numerous styles of therapy, journalist, and mom. She co-founded Mind Space (https://mind-space.ca), a collective of physicians offering mental health groups to tens of thousands of participants, to improve access to publicly funded mental health services in BC.  Her writing is featured in the Toronto Star, CBC, NeoLife, L.A. Times, Walrus, and Maclean’s, among others. Joanna sees mental health struggles as symptoms of the imbalances in our wider systems, hoping to decrease the stigma that is too often misplaced on the individuals who suffer rather than the ailing society around them. In addition to caring for individuals, she hopes to heal the harmful dynamics of domination, division, and indifference within our collective systems, teaching that collective-care is self-care.

Website

https://www.joannacheek.ca/

Show Highlights

·       Guest Host- Dr. Renee Toppin: The Founder of Black Women Who Want More has a sit-down conversation with India Archie, Owner "Insights With India" CJ Johnson - Author "Prophetic Parenting" and Gloria Bradley - Author "How To Revive Your Dreams 

·       The advantages and disadvantages of "ditching the 9-5" and keeping your dream alive

·       Stability vs. Fulfillment

·       Fear of Risk vs. Fear of Regret

·       Identity and Self-Worth

·       The Possibility of Balance

Summary:

How do you transition from being a 9-5 Employee to being a fully independent profitable business owner? 

Is it worth the risk?  How do you know when to make that move ?  Do you rely on Faith or do you need a solid plan? Many people feel stuck or unfulfilled working a job that does not align with their purpose or give them that internal satisfaction that they are doing the "thing" for which they were created. We will explore the advantages and disadvantages of "ditching the 9-5" and keeping your dream alive. From Employee To Entrepreneur.  The path to purpose.

Biography

Dr. Renee Toppin the Founder/CEO of Black Women Who Want More Academy is a highly accomplished Whole Life Empowerment Coach with more than 25 years of experience transforming lives through her distinctive coaching and training approach. As a dynamic professional public speaker, she motivates audiences worldwide and maintains a global social media presence exceeding 700,000 followers, with strong engagement across the United States, Nigeria, South Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean.

She has appeared on CNN as a surrogate for a former U.S. President and has been featured on numerous radio, television, and talk shows. Renowned for her powerful communication and impactful delivery, Ms. Toppin attracts women from around the globe to her online programs, classes, and courses.

As a licensed Evangelist, Ms. Toppin integrates biblical principles and the Word of God into her Life Coaching Academy, empowering women to pursue holistic personal growth—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially. Through multiple successful business ventures, she has expanded into global markets, ensuring sustainable growth and broad impact. She leads a team of elite coaches specializing in finance, health and wellness, accountability, spiritual awareness, book writing and publishing, and essential life coping skills.

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Joshua D. Hartzell, MD, MS-HPEd, FACP, FIDSA – Military Veteran, Practicing Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Physician, and a Certified Executive Coach

·       Leadership inspired by caring creates cultures where people can thrive personally and professionally. 

·       Leading from a place of caring is evidence-based leadership

·       Leading from a place of caring is not soft.

·       Leading with care can be learned and intentionally implemented. 

 Summary:

 According to Dr. Joshua Hartzell, caring should be the foundation that drives how we lead others, shaping cultures where individuals can truly thrive both personally and professionally. Leadership rooted in caring is not just an idealistic approach but an evidence-based one, consistently linked to higher engagement, stronger performance, and improved well-being. Far from being “soft,” caring leadership requires courage and discipline, as it involves holding high standards, making tough decisions, and providing honest feedback while maintaining respect and empathy. Importantly, leading with care is not an innate trait reserved for a few—it is a skill that can be learned, practiced, and intentionally implemented through self-awareness, consistent behaviors, and a genuine commitment to valuing people.

Joshua D. Hartzell, MD, MS-HPEd, FACP, FIDSA

Biography

Joshua D. Hartzell, MD, MS-HPEd, FACP, FIDSA is a retired Army Colonel who spent 25 years in military medicine. Dr. Hartzell has held numerous leadership positions throughout his career including being Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency and Assistant Chief of Graduate Medical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Assistant Dean for Faculty Development at the Uniformed Services University. He deployed as a Battalion Surgeon with the 82nd Airborne Division to Afghanistan. Dr. Hartzell is also faculty at the MGH Institute of Health Professions where he teaches leadership development.  A practicing Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases Physician, he has devoted the last decade to developing leaders training and teaching thousands of students, residents, and faculty within healthcare. Dr. Hartzell has delivered over 100 talks on leadership development and has written numerous papers on the topic. Dr. Hartzell is a Certified Executive Coach and holds additional coaching certification in the Leadership Challenge 360.  He combined his years of boots on the ground leading in medicine with his research to teach other leaders practical strategies about how to sharpen their leadership skills in his book, A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership: Building a Culture of Compassion and Excellence.

Website: https://joshuahartzellmd.com/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshhartzellmd

Show Highlights

·       A sit-down conversation with Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author

·       How we disturb and upset ourselves

·       The key thoughts we use to sweat the small stuff

·       Self-rating is harmful

·       Stress… its negative impact on our lives

 SUMMARY:

We often disturb and upset ourselves not because of events themselves, but because of the way we think about them. When we “sweat the small stuff,” it is usually driven by key thoughts such as demanding perfection, assuming minor problems are catastrophic, or believing that mistakes define our worth. This leads to harmful self-rating, where we judge our entire value as a person based on single outcomes or flaws rather than viewing ourselves as complex and constantly developing individuals. These patterns of thinking fuel stress, which can negatively impact our mental focus, emotional well-being, relationships, and even physical health. By recognizing and challenging these unhelpful thoughts, we can reduce unnecessary stress and respond to life’s challenges in a healthier, more balanced way.

Biography

Dr. Michael Mantell, a renowned and esteemed mental health architect, earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1976 and his MS in Clinical Psychology in 1972 from Hahnemann Medical College. He guides clients to disturb themselves less, by identifying, challenging, and restructuring irrational beliefs, helping them build a reliable foundation of rational, flexible thinking, and adopt healthier behaviors and attitudes. His expertise bridges the art and science of mental health, empowering clients to disturb themselves less and construct a mindset that enables them to respond to life’s challenges with resilience, acceptance, and self-compassion.

Throughout his career, Dr. Mantell has held various prestigious positions, including Chief Psychologist for Children's Hospital of San Diego, Chief Psychologist of the San Diego Police Department, and Chief Behavior Science Consultant for the American Council on Exercise. He was a co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Plus Size Certified, Inc. and is a member of the Science Advisory Council of the International Council on Active Aging. In addition, he served as Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UCSD Medical School, where he taught the Doctor-Patient Relationship course. He brings a specialty focus on physician wellbeing, physician burnout and elevating the patient experience. He has lectured at Pt. Loma Nazarene University and has provided a yearly 3-day Physician Wellness Studio for the American Society of Hematology. He is an invited guest instructor at Harvard University.

Dr. Mantell is a prolific author with four books to his name, including his recent work, "The Link is What You Think," "Ticking Bombs: Defusing Violence in the Workplace," and his iconic 1988 original "Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff PS: It’s All Small Stuff" and its 25th Anniversary Edition. Dr Mantell has been a member of SAG-AFTRA since 1981, Chair of its Election Committee and Vice-Chair of the Government Affairs and Public Policy Committee. He was elected to the Board of SAG-AFTRA San Diego in September, 2025. He’s been bringing psychology to the broadcast media for decades including regular appearances on Good Morning, America, Oprah Winfrey and weekly spots on local and nationwide news.

You can follow his free daily “MantellPoints2Ponder” on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell-  renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with Lee Jordan, MS, NBC-HWC, SHRM-SCP- Adjunct Professor of Kinesiology & Integrative Wellness, Nationally Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, ACE Subject-Matter-Expert, author, speaker and consultant.

Fears – “Will I (HWC’s) be replaced?

Historical examples where skilled workers felt threatened by emerging tech but were actually elevated. One example is the emergence of calculators in the 70’s – instead of declining the mathematician profession, it took away tedious tasks and created time for conceptual thinking – automation of routine tasks raised the value of complex thinking and judgement. Another example more directly connected to health and wellness, when telemedicine rapidly expanded during and post pandemic there was concern in-person traditional practice might take a hit $ and erode. Instead, telemedicine expanded access and increased efficiency.

Primary Difference – “AI can hear but it can’t listen.” AI is very good at behavior tracking, personalizing engine for lifestyle data, admin and content tasks. A health coaches’ value is our ability to “be with someone” to be fully present, People crave acceptance and connection – they want to be valued NOT for what they can DO, but simply for who they are. AI can imitate but it can’t replicate the human experience. Listening is the True Superpower to facilitating the change people seek. This type of listening means we are listening to people’s words, emotions and expressions. We hear and notice not only what is being said, but what is not being said. The experience being delivered is that I have time for you… not just time to address your problem… time with and for you.  

The Link is What you Think - What HC’s chose to think about AI and their future as HC’s and how it impacts the people, they are called to serve will significantly shape their experience in the field.

Word on the street – Daniela Amodei, cofounder and president of Anthropic, an AI company (Claude) that raised $30 billion in Series G funding valuing their company at $380 billion, says, “The things that make us human will become much more important instead of much less important… “And what I mean by that is when we look to hire people at Anthropic today, we look for people who are great communicators, who have excellent EQ and people skills, who are kind and compassionate and curious and want to help other people.

Lee Jordan, MS, NBC-HWC, SHRM-SCP

Biography

Lee Jordan lives out his purpose to "show up for people in meaningful and transformative ways" through his work as an Adjunct Professor of Kinesiology & Integrative Wellness, Nationally Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach, ACE Subject-Matter-Expert, author, speaker and consultant.

Lee helps people throughout the United States live a full life through his physician-endorsed behavior change program, 30 Seconds to Victory™. In his role as a consultant he has helped shape and deliver corporate health and wellness coaching programs and works with digital health companies creating apps engineered with evidence-based health behavior constructs. Lee speaks on health and wellness coaching and other wellness-related topics at conferences such as the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) and the IDEA Nutrition & Behavior Change Summit. Lee is dedicated to equipping a legion of passionate wellness professionals with the practical competencies needed to transform lives.

Social Media:

www.linkedin.com/in/leejordanhealth

Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantel - renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with Linda Roszak Burton –NBC-HWC, ACC, BBC, BS, is President of DRW Coaching. Linda is an executive and board-certified health and well-being coach, academic researcher, author and public speaker
Summary:

Harnessing the Science of Gratitude: Blending positive psychology, neuroscience and gratitude research to elevate individuals, teams, organizations and communities. 

1)Individual Well-Being - purpose, values and strengths, personal GPS and fuel system.

2)Teams - stronger collaboration, psychological safety, moral cognition, more prosocial behaviors (IHB)

3)Leaders – presence - starts at the top, enhanced engagement, virtuous cycle

4)Community - enhanced social bonds and a greater sense of community

Biography

Linda Roszak Burton, NBC-HWC, ACC, BBC, BS, is President of DRW Coaching. Linda is an executive and board-certified health and well-being coach, academic researcher, author and public speaker. As a coach, Linda champions humanism in healthcare. She is committed to bringing well-being and strength-based coaching methodologies to her clients—methodologies informed by cutting-edge research and evidence-based practices in neuroscience, positive psychology, gratitude and positive organization behaviors (POB).

As an academic researcher, she supports initiatives in leadership development, employee engagement, and the fostering of a healthy, positive work environment. Her international studies include gratitude interventions to support stress management, mental health of nurses, managers and support staff and employee engagement and meaningfulness of work.

Linda is a credentialed executive coach through the International Coach Federation, a National Board Certified Health and Well-being Coach (NBC-HWC), a certified Brain-Based Coach through the NeuroLeadership Institute, a certified Positive Psychology-Based Health and Well-Being Coach through the College of Executive Coaching, and a Charter Member of A Loving Organization. A member of the Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School Affiliate, she holds a B.S. in Health Education from Virginia Tech and has completed coursework pursuing an M.S. in Conflict Management at the University of Baltimore.

Linda is the author of Gratitude Heals®- A Journal for Inspiration and Guidance (Available on Amazon). Additionally, her Great Mills TEDx Talk on Gratitude- The Power to Heal the World was released in December 2022. Linda has been a regular contributor to the Wharton Healthcare Quarterly on the science of gratitude since 2017.

Website www.drwcoaching.com

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindaroszakburton/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/_lroszakburton/

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·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell- renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with

Dr. Harvey Castro -- AI Futurist, Healthcare Visionary, and Author.

·       The Good: Where AI Is Already Delivering Real Value

·       The Bad: Risks We Cannot Ignore

·       The Unknown: Agentic AI and the Shift from Advisor to Actor

·       The Leadership Imperative: Building Human-Centered AI

SUMMARY:

In healthcare, AI is already delivering real value by enhancing diagnostic accuracy, accelerating research, optimizing workflows, and supporting more personalized patient care—the clear “Good.” At the same time, the “Bad” includes serious risks such as algorithmic bias, patient privacy concerns, cybersecurity threats, regulatory gaps, and the danger of overreliance on automated systems in high-stakes clinical environments. The “Unknown” emerges with the rise of agentic AI, which could move beyond supporting clinicians to independently initiating actions, fundamentally shifting AI’s role from advisor to actor and introducing new ethical, safety, and accountability challenges. This reality creates a leadership imperative: healthcare organizations must intentionally build and govern human-centered AI systems that prioritize transparency, equity, oversight, and trust to ensure technology strengthens clinical judgment and patient outcomes rather than undermines them.  

Biography

Harvey Castro, MD, MBA known online as #DrGPT is an emergency physician, AI futurist, and Chief AI Officer at Phantom Space. A 5× TEDx speaker and advisor to governments and health systems, Dr. Castro focuses on building human-centered AI that enhances safety, performance, and trust from hospital systems to space-based health innovation.

He is the author of ChatGPT & Healthcare and a leading voice on responsible AI governance, digital twins, and the future of clinical decision-making. With over 50,000 LinkedIn followers, he helps clinicians and executives move beyond hype toward practical, safe AI deployment.

Website

www.Harveycastromd.com

Social Media Platforms

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harveycastromd

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/harveycastromd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harveycastromd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarveyCastroMD

Twitter: harveycastromd

A certified IRS tax professional explains that effective IRS tax strategies and credit repair go hand in hand when building long-term financial stability. By leveraging legal deductions, credits, proper entity structuring, and proactive tax planning, individuals and business owners can reduce tax liability while remaining fully compliant with IRS regulations. At the same time, strategic credit repair—such as correcting reporting errors, reducing utilization ratios, negotiating settlements, and establishing positive payment history—helps improve credit scores, increase borrowing power, and lower interest costs. When coordinated properly, smart tax planning can enhance cash flow, which in turn supports debt reduction and credit rebuilding, creating a comprehensive approach to financial growth and protection.  

Biography

My name is Kim Shockey-Hampton. I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and recently retired after nearly 40 years of federal civilian service, primarily with the Department of the Army.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio, graduating Magna Cum Laude. I was honored with selection into Kappa Gamma Pi Honor Society, which recognizes excellence in leadership, scholarship, faith, and service. My passion lies in supporting others, particularly in achieving financial independence.

Following graduation, I was chosen as an Army Materiel Command (AMC) Fellow and relocated to Texarkana, Texas. There, I completed a Master’s degree in Business Management at Texas A&M College.

To further my expertise, I pursued advanced coursework to become an IRS Certified Tax Professional. This qualification allows me to be listed in the IRS Tax Preparers Guide, connecting clients seeking assistance with tax preparation in their local area. Additionally, I possess electronic filing authorization for client tax returns, ensuring efficiency and compliance in the filing process.

Co-Authored a book entitled “The Path to Financial Independence” Strategies for Eliminating Debt and Gowing Wealth.  I am also a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), which provides access to timely updates on tax law changes and knowledgeable staff support throughout the tax season. NATP offers regular tax webinars to ensure I remain current on all tax industry changes and developments.   I also maintain a subscription to weekly IRS tax newsletters.

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·       A sit-down conversation with Gloria Y. Bradley - Author, Educator, Licensed real estate professional, and Faith-based community leader

·       Reviving dreams through faith, action, and purpose

·       Writing your vision down

 Summary

In this powerful and uplifting episode, author and educator Gloria Y. Bradley joins the show to discuss how faith, action, and perseverance can revive dreams that feel delayed, discouraged, or forgotten. Drawing from her book How to Revive Your Dreams That Have Been Buried Six Feet, Gloria shares personal stories, practical wisdom, and spiritual insight to help listeners rediscover purpose, overcome setbacks, and move forward with hope. From youth searching for direction to adults navigating financial and life transitions, this conversation offers encouragement, clarity, and a reminder that no dream is buried too deep for God to revive.

Biography

Gloria Y. Bradley is an author, educator, licensed real estate professional, and faith-based community leader with more than four decades of experience empowering individuals, families, and communities. She is the author of How to Revive Your Dreams That Have Been Buried Six Feet, a faith-driven book that helps people rediscover purpose, hope, and direction through God, faith, and action.

Gloria has been a California state–licensed real estate agent for over 11 years, specializing in first-time homebuyers, housing education, and down payment assistance. She regularly serves as a Guest Speaker for Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles and West Angeles Church Community Development Corporation, teaching First-Time Homebuyer Workshops and empowering families toward sustainable homeownership.

Her work has been featured on NBC News Los Angeles and will be highlighted in an upcoming documentary focused on the importance of down payment assistance programs. Gloria is also the founder of Driving Detective, a driver education company serving teens and adults, and My Travel Dreams with Lady Gloria B., a purpose-driven travel business.

Her message is simple and powerful: No dream is buried too deep for God to revive.

Show Highlights

·       Dr. James JC Cooley along with Co-Host Dr. Michael Mantell- renowned and esteemed mental health architect and prolific author have a sit-down conversation with Dr. Susan Baumgaertel – Internal Medicine Physician, healthcare navigator, medical advocate, author, and talk show host.

· “Voices With Vigor” talk show

· Dr. Baumgaertel career: physician, advocate, guide, author, writer, talk show host

Biography

Dr. Baumgaertel’s internal medicine practice began in 1996, encompassing many types of clinical work over time. In 2021 she stepped away from direct patient care to expand her impact through myMDadvocate, a virtual consultation and advocacy service that serves as a bridge between patients and the often-complex healthcare system. As a physician consultant, healthcare navigator, and medical advocate, Susan shares her wisdom on everything from referral advocacy to chronic condition management, from aging gracefully to supporting caregivers through their most challenging moments. Her passion for helping women through life transitions led to the creation of MenopauseMenu, a comprehensive online resource offering evidence-based information and holistic support. This work formed the foundation for her 2023 book, The Menopause Menu — an all-in-one guide that transforms medical complexity into accessible wisdom. In 2025 Susan launched a vibrant talk show, Voices with Vigor, showcasing guests from diverse backgrounds who share common threads of curiosity, kindness, dedication, and resilience.