Emotion Well

In this episode of Emotion Well, we talk with Nick Krehbiel from Agri-Prime Consulting. Bringing over a decade of experience in facilitation, education, and organizational development, he is a certified DiSC partner, helping teams strengthen communication and performance.

In this conversation, Nick shares real-world examples from his consulting work and explains what DiSC assessments are and how they go beyond labels to help individuals and teams work better together. We also discuss the bigger picture: how strong local businesses play a vital role in supporting rural communities.

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Sydney Marshman, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist and the founder of Happy at Home Consulting, where she helps individuals and families thrive in their own homes through practical, person-centered solutions—from simple adaptive tools to full remodel planning. A graduate of Drake University’s OT program with a background in kinesiology and public health, Sydney partners with clients, caregivers, and community organizations to support independence, accessibility, and aging in place. In this episode you’ll learn about what OT really is, how it relates to mental health, and how proactive planning can help people stay home and live we...

This episode discusses suicide and suicide prevention. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

In this episode of EFR’s Emotion Well Podcast, Hayl Bergeland, Suicide Prevention Grant Coordinator at EFR, joins us for an important conversation on suicide prevention, awareness, and support. Hayl discusses why suicide remains such a difficult topic for people to talk about, the stigma that still surrounds it, and how we can break down barriers by talking openly and compassionately. She also highlights the latest data on suici...

Are you a caregiver struggling with attending to your own self-care needs? In this episode of EFR’s Emotion Well Podcast, Melody Vachal, Amazon best-selling author, speaker, and caregiving advocate, shares her experiences on both sides of the caregiving journey—having spent many years as a primary caregiver to her son with special needs and then having to be the recipient of care after a serious car accident. She gives practical advice on how to carve out the mental, emotional, and physical spaces needed so caregivers can show up as the best versions of themselves to the people who rely...

Do you want the children in your life to develop not only physical strength, but mental strength, resilience, and confidence? Laura Arneson, owner of The Little Gym, joins us to discuss how encouraging physical activity and participation in sports helps children develop these important life skills. Laura talks about her early experiences in sports and shares how the support of her parents and other mentors influenced her growth and development. She believes one of the most important lessons is learning that the effort is just as important as the outcome. In this conversation, Laura shares how promoting physical activity...

National Board–Certified Health Coach and Firefly Wellness owner Kimberley Jackman joins us to share why a workstation setup is more than a comfort perk—it’s foundational for whole‑person well‑being. From emotional wellness to physical fitness, she dives into how your workspace ergonomics impact both body and mind—and why small adjustments can lead to big changes in comfort, focus, and energy throughout the day. Whether you're at a desk or on your feet, this episode will help you rethink what “the right fit” really means.

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Licensed psychotherapist Bronwyn Schweigerdt—host of “Angry at the Right Things”—joins us to rethink anger as a vital barometer, not a character flaw. We talk alexithymia (the struggle to recognize and express feelings), why anger is often suppressed rather than expressed, and how tuning in to this emotion can reveal insightful information. Bronwyn shares practical tips for spotting the signals in your body, communicating them clearly, and channeling anger into constructive change. Listen in and learn how to transform frustration into your most clarifying tool for well‑being.

Check out Bronwyn's podcast, Angry at the Righ...

Leadership can be as rewarding as it is challenging—especially when you focus on cultivating and motivating people, rather than just “fixing” issues. In this episode, we’re joined by international keynote speaker and author Jones Loflin, who shares a human-centered approach to leadership. Learn how embracing a gardener’s mindset and viewing team members as individuals first unlocks creativity and resilience that boost performance, productivity, and career growth. Tune in for motivating, real-life examples that will help you tend to your team more effectively—and grow as a leader in the process.

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For 35 years, Joy Peterson lived with chronic health conditions that were dismissed, overlooked, or misdiagnosed. Doctors couldn’t connect the dots, but she knew something wasn’t right. When she finally received the diagnosis she had been searching for, everything clicked—"My life finally made sense." But a diagnosis isn’t a cure—it’s a starting point. Now armed with the right information, Joy is making choices that protect her health and future. In this episode, she shares what decades of self-advocacy have taught her, why you should never stop fighting for answers, and how having the right support syst...

In a world of health fads and quick fixes, what does healthy living really mean? And how do you create a lifestyle that supports it? In this episode, we sit with Kevin Peterson, a lifestyle medicine provider, to discuss the foundational health practices that lead to lasting well-being. Kevin explains why it’s so important to meet yourself where you are right now. He explains how identifying what’s already working in your life can help you answer the question, "What does healthy living mean for me?" He dives into the one thing we can all count on—change—and how...

After five years as the voice of Emotion Well, EFR's Wellness and Marketing Manager Johanna Dunlevy steps into the guest seat to share how the podcast began, the episodes that left a lasting mark on her life, and how a trifecta of powerful resources—Al-Anon, Life Coaching, and Counseling—provided pivotal support while navigating life's most difficult changes.

Joined by colleague and host Jen Perez, Johanna opens up about the profound role self-care played during her father’s final days, and the two reflect on how life's circumstances changed their childhood dreams in unexpected ways, shaping...

Meet Wendy Padob, a board-certified health & wellness coach specializing in executive stress management. Wendy helps high-achieving professionals prevent stress from impacting their health and careers.

Before founding her practice, Wendy spent over two decades as a communications executive in high-pressure environments. Her unsustainable, fast-paced lifestyle led her to severe burnout and physical injuries that forced her to take disability leave. Her experience was a powerful wake-up call: “If you don’t make time for wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for illness.”

Wendy shares her journey from executive burnout to wellnes...

Join us for a conversation with Tammy Hoyman, CEO of Employee & Family Resources (EFR), as she takes us through the incredible journey of EFR— from its start in 1964 as the Iowa affiliate of the National Council on Alcoholism, to establishing Iowa's first EAP, through its expansion today. With over 25 years at EFR and serving as CEO since 2009, Tammy provides insights into the growth of our EAP, SAP, and SAS programs and offers her perspective on the changing landscape of mental healthcare in workplaces, schools, and communities.

Learn more about our 60th Anniversary Event on Oc...

For 1 in 10 women, the hormonal shifts of the menstrual cycle can trigger extreme, debilitating emotions. In this episode, we sat down with Meredith Gallivan for a vulnerable conversation about her experience with pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Meredith describes the overwhelming 'hell week' she faced each month—like PMS on steroids—and how, after years of trying different medications for depression and anxiety, a perceptive leader urged her to seek answers. Meredith talks about how she pursued a diagnosis and shares resources for those navigating this often misunderstood and stigmatized condition.

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Join us as Jennifer Anderson provides a glimpse into the unique challenges faced by the first responder community. Whether you're a front-line responder or behind-the-scenes dispatcher, exposure to constant unpredictability and moment-to-moment challenges can create repeated trauma. This stress extends to families, fueling anxiety and uncertainty about what their loved ones face each day.

We'll discuss how EFR’s new First Responder Coaching benefit is a powerful tool for support that connects emergency response workers with peers who understand their experiences. Jennifer also shares details about an upcoming event hosted by First Responder Coaching.

Join Mary as she shares her 25-year transformative journey with yoga as a participant and an instructor. She explores how this welcoming and inclusive practice reshaped her physical and mental health in unexpected ways. Mary and Johanna dive deep into how yoga transcends the mat, offering tools for mindfulness that improve everyday life. Whether you're new to yoga or an experienced yogi, we'll cover insights to help you begin or deepen your practice, transforming your mind and body from the inside out.

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Join us as EAP/SAP Counselor Jessi Allard provides a glimpse through the lens of a mental health professional, unraveling the crucial role of self-advocacy in mental well-being. Breaking the silence can be challenging, but Jessi explains why it's essential for overcoming the barriers that stigma creates. She delves into how advocating for yourself bridges gaps in understanding and why this is especially critical in healthcare settings and interpersonal relationships. With her extensive experience, Jessi offers actionable strategies to recognize, embrace, and move forward in your mental health journey. Tune in to empower yourself with the skills to advocate...

Join us as we welcome MJ Andonie, a counselor and mother of two, for a heartfelt exploration of self-care in motherhood. MJ offers a transparent look at her journey into parenthood, revealing how it reshaped her practice and perspective of self-care. Discover the joys and challenges of raising children guided by deep-rooted values and gather invaluable insights into nurturing well-being while nurturing others. Tune in for an episode full of heart and practical wisdom!

Book Recommendations from MJ:

Raising Good Humans

Whole Brain Child

Year of Yes

Dive into an unforgettable episode as Saul Hammond opens up about fostering and ultimately adopting his son. Beginning when his son was just six weeks old, Saul shares the highs and lows of loving and parenting within the foster care system, describing the experience as an "emotional rollercoaster." With raw honesty, he recounts the challenges and milestones, from recognizing early signs of autism to pursuing a diagnosis. This episode is a testament to Saul's relentless dedication to his son's well-being and his courage to face the future's uncertainties with love. Join us as we delve into the beauty and c...

From childhood dreams to the NFL, EFR board member Josh Lenz takes us on his journey from high school sports to the spotlight at Iowa State University and, eventually, signing with several NFL teams as an undrafted free agent. During our conversation, Josh reflects on the exhilarating highs and challenging lows of pursuing his dream. He shares how shifting away from that season of life inspired him to mentor the next generation of athletes. Tune in for an inspiring tale of resilience, transition, and giving back.

Connect with Josh on LinkedIn!

Tune in for a compelling conversation with Jen Perez, EFR's Call Center Manager, as she shares her dual experience of providing direct care to at-risk populations and seeking support to manage the demands of her role. Jen opens up about the rewarding yet challenging nature of her work and the secondary trauma that took hold, highlighting the critical moment when she realized the necessity of self-care to continue caring for others. In this candid discussion, she reflects on overcoming secondary trauma, the importance of mental health support for caregivers, and the life-changing impact of professional support in developing resilience.<...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with EFR's newest board member, Jim Wichman. In this episode, Jim opens up about his lifelong struggles with his mental and emotional health. He recounts how reaching out to EFR's counseling became a catalyst for change as he confronted and healed from childhood trauma. Witness how developing his mental well-being turned into a ripple effect, transforming his professional aspirations from public schools to public speaking and, most importantly, deepening his relationship with his family.

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Join 'The Budget Captain,' Dave Won, as he uncovers a crucial aspect of financial well-being – your personal relationship with money. This episode dives into how childhood experiences shape our money habits. Dave reveals that financial health is not just a "money in versus money out" math equation; it's deeply rooted in behavioral science. He explains why having more money isn't a cure-all if your ingrained money behaviors are unhealthy. Gain valuable insights into achieving true financial wellness by integrating both the psychological and practical sides of money management.

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Join us as we sit down with Andrea Dencklau from Iowa ACEs 360, delving into a topic that hits closer to home than you might expect: Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs. If you're thinking this doesn't apply to you, Andrea's insights might just change your mind. We'll explore how these early experiences have a ripple effect and shape not just individuals, but entire communities. Andrea will unpack the crucial need for systemic changes to support those facing adversity, share strategies for preventing ACEs, and highlight the transformative power of healing-centered engagement in helping people overcome challenges rooted in their formative...

Join us as we dive deep into the power of human connection. Our guest, Mary-Lyn Kieffer, sheds light on the transformative perspective shift within the simple acts of reaching out to receive or offer help and the strength you can draw from realizing you're not alone.

We explore Togetherall, a platform that unites people from across the globe in a secure and welcoming space where they can share, connect, and provide invaluable support. Don't miss this discussion on the power of community and the shared human experience.

Have EFR's benefits a...

Step into a world of impact with Emily Holley of the American Red Cross. Beyond initial disaster response, the Red Cross volunteers are pillars of support for those facing challenges after immediate relief efforts have concluded. Emily sheds light on the everyday, inspiring stories of volunteers who bring solace and restore hope through mental health recovery resources in the aftermath of disasters. Delve into the heart of volunteering with the American Red Cross, and find your place in roles like the Disaster Action Team and beyond.

Disaster Action Team information here

Red...

Join Emotion Well as we sit down with Angie Chaplin as she shares her raw and powerful journey to sobriety. In this candid conversation, Angie reveals her struggles with career shifts, grief, and relationship woes that led her to lean on alcohol for a decade. After a life-changing wake-up call and attempts to heal through conventional methods, Angie found her lifeline: identifying her core values. Don't miss this powerful reminder that true liberation lies within ourselves.

Visit Angie's website: https://www.angiechaplin.com/leadership

Access resources from James Clear

Explore...

Get ready to dive deep into a topic that affects everyone, yet often goes unexplored - how your pelvic floor plays a vital role in your quality of life. Join us for an eye-opening discussion as we uncover the fascinating connections between your pelvic floor and your overall well-being with informative insights and unfiltered candor. From intimate relationships to everyday activities, Courtney Buhrow and Haylee Wilkening unravel the mysteries and myths surrounding this overlooked part of your well-being. 

https://www.reviveptwdsm.com/

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Scarlett Lunning joins us to discuss how life can be viewed from the inside out. She shares the Three Principles of mind, consciousness, and thought, and how they work together to create our realities. She shares her personal experiences with the Three Principles as well as recommends how someone can take small steps to greater self awareness.

Connect with Scarlett

One Thought by Mara Gleason

Coming Home by Natasha Swerdloff and Dr. Dicken Bettinger

The Missing Link by Sydney Banks

Enlightened Gardener by Sydney Banks

Zac Easter was an all-American kid; he loved football, he loved his family, and he had hopes and dreams for a future with his high school sweetheart. Zac also lived with mental illness that was the result of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE. Zac knew something was wrong with his brain and wanted others to understand what he was going through so he kept journals of his experiences. Having played football since elementary school, Zac had endured multiple brain injuries, or what we commonly call concussions. Zac died in 2015 as a result of his mental health issues and to...

To recognize Child Abuse Prevention month we hear from Greg Bellville and Abby Patterson from Prevent Child Abuse Iowa. They share the importance of shifting the focus towards proactive and preventative measures to protect children, such as identifying and supporting families in need of assistance, instead of the reactive way the system is set up to report, observe, and remove children from their families. In addition, hear how Prevent Child Abuse Iowa supports families and how you can become a member of their Imperfect Parent Club!

Prevent Child Abuse Iowa

Imperfect Parent...

Psychological testing is a highly requested service but the number of providers available to perform testing falls short leaving a very long wait for families looking for answers, support, and resources. Hear from Amanda Khader, a licensed school psychologist, about what type of behavioral health diagnoses are most common, how they are screened and tested, and why having a diagnosis can be helpful and important for children and their families. In addition, learn about EFR's new psychological testing services available.

Explore EFR's Services

Barb Ranck joins us to discuss what imposter syndrome is and what it isn't. She shares scenarios from childhood that could predispose someone to imposter syndrome and provides different ways for us to think through our insecurities. Barb reminds us that when you give yourself grace, space, and time, anything is possible and you can lead an authentic life.

Learn more about EFR's Life Coaching benefit

Learn more about Barb here

Check out Brenè Brown's Call To Courage on Netflix

We are joined by a clinical psychologist to have a candid conversation on emotional abuse with. In this episode we uncover common characteristics of emotional abuse and discuss why it can be difficult for people in abusive relationships to see themselves caught in the cycle of abuse. We explore the challenges individuals face when trying to leave an abusive relationship and the importance of having a safety plan when preparing to leave.

National Hotline for Domestic Violence: 800-799-7233

Definitions of Types of Emotional Abuse 

Checklist to consider if you’re...

Humans thrive when they feel supported and connected. Mary Doherty, LMSW, and one of EFR's counselors, shares how group therapy and support groups can make a difference when someone needs support outside of, or in addition to, individual therapy. Mary shares information about the new services coming to The Healing Space, EFR's new center for support groups, therapy groups, and classes.

Click to check out our group and class offerings!

Season six of Emotion Well kicks off with wellness experts, Johanna Dunlevy and Kylie Mitchell, sharing stories of setting New Year resolutions and helping guide others to do the same. Hear from them on the importance of habit stacking, the secrets to sustainable lifestyle changes, and how to consistently make the easy choice when it comes to healthy living.

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At some point we will lose people we know and love to death making grief an inevitable life experience. Buffy Peters, the Director of Hamilton's Academy of Grief and Loss, joins us to speak about the different ways grief presents itself, how people can embrace and grow with grief, and the abundance of resources available for those grieving.

Connect with Hamilton's Grief Academy

Learn More About November 6 Grief Symposium

Podcast Recommendations for Widows/Widowers

Check out Buffy's other podcast appearance on the Widowed Parent Podcast!

Book...

The demand for mental health services has never been greater but what does that mean for those living in rural and farming communities? Jason Haglund, a fifth generation farmer and expert in the field of mental health shares how accessibility, availability, and acceptability play a factor in addressing mental health and preventing suicide. Jason also shares how Mental Health First Aid can help move us towards greater acceptance and comfort when mental health concerns arise.

ISU Extension - Click for Stress on the Farm info

Bank of Iowa - Click to learn...

The demand for mental health services has never been greater but what does that mean for those living in rural and farming communities? Jason Haglund, a fifth generation farmer and expert in the field of mental health shares how accessibility, availability, and acceptability play a factor in addressing mental health and preventing suicide. Jason also shares how Mental Health First Aid can help move us towards greater acceptance and comfort when mental health concerns arise.

ISU Extension - Click for Stress on the Farm info

Bank of Iowa - Click to learn...

Kristin Clark empowers teenagers and young adults to focus on their interests instead of passions when planning for college and career paths. Kristin shares how using CliftonStrengths can help untangle college planning and how focusing on strengths can spark joy and fulfillment and lead to more long-term career satisfaction.

Click here to connect with Kristin!