Create with Franz
A podcast dedicated to sharing actionable steps we can take to improve our well being and mental health, so we can create the life we want!
Who do you think you are? Your beliefs create your reality.

Have you ever wondered why you can't seem to manifest the life you want, despite your best efforts? The truth is, it’s not about what you want, but who you believe you are. We often create our reality based on subconscious beliefs that can lead to self-sabotage and block our success.
In this episode, we sit down with certified Hypnotherapist and RTT Therapist Beatrice Zamfir to demystify manifestation. She reveals the precise reasons why you may be getting rejected or failing to succeed, and then shares the exact steps and powerful techniques you need to take to...
The Great Digital Detox: From Distraction to Higher Purpose.

Do you ever feel drained and constantly distracted by your digital devices? In a world of notifications, social media, and endless emails, it's easy to lose focus on what matters most—your relationships, your peace, and your personal purpose.
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brian Bovee, a seasoned tech expert and professor at California Baptist University, to explore how the "attention economy" is designed to hijack our focus. Brian shares his personal journey from a distracted life to a deeply purposeful one, guided by his book, The Focused Faith. He provides powerful, intentional strategies to...
From conflict to connection: why couples therapy matters

Are conflicts and growing emotional distance leaving you feeling exhausted and disconnected from your partner? Many couples find themselves in a cycle of frustration, where misunderstandings and unresolved arguments create a gap that feels impossible to close. You might be wondering if it's possible to restore the connection you once cherished.
In this episode, we talk with Arkadiy Volkov, a registered psychotherapist and founder of Feel Your Way Therapy. Arkadiy, who specializes in couples therapy, shares his unique insights on how to move "From Conflict to Connection."Drawing on his experience and faith-based approach, he explains why...
Navigating life’s storms with art therapy

My new episode features Adriana Marchione, a celebrated movement-based expressive arts therapist and educator. The discussion is for anyone grappling with deep feelings of sadness, despair, or grief, whether due to personal loss, health issues, or general life struggles.
We will challenge the common reactions of sinking into depression or numbing pain with substances, suggesting a zero-cost alternative: nature and art therapy.
Adriana shares her powerful personal story of overcoming addiction and the profound grief of losing both her husband and father. She explains how she used accessible tools like dance, music, and a deeper c...
Unraveling dyslexia

Unraveling dyslexia
Have you ever felt a persistent sense of being out of sync, easily distracted, or struggled with organization and planning, even if your career seemed to flourish? In this insightful second part of our conversation, we delve into Jonathan Kemp's remarkable journey through undiagnosed dyslexia.
Every person experiences dyslexia in a different way and it’s important to recognize that each person will find a different way of dealing with it.
As for Jonathan, despite a distinguished career spanning law enforcement, entrepreneurship, and academia, he battled a persistent sense of being di...
AI: Tool or Temptation? A spiritual view

In the evolving debate about Artificial Intelligence, where do you stand: are you a "doomer" or a "bloomer"? Is AI merely a tool, or something more akin to an intelligence that subtly shifts our perception of ourselves? This episode unpacks the profound implications of our growing reliance on AI chatbots.
Our guest, Abdu Murray—an attorney, psychologist, author, and minister—sheds crucial light on the escalating dangers of AI, particularly for young minds. He reveals how AI, designed to please, often confirms biases without challenge, even to the point of encouraging self-harm or, tragically, inciting suicide. Beyond thes...
Finding peace of mind - despite depression, dyslexia and bipolar

In this episode, we delve into a profound and often unseen battle with our guest, Jonathan Kemp. Despite being born into a world of privilege, Jonathan's early life was shaped by an inner struggle he couldn't name, leading him to believe he was never quite good enough.
‘Work harder!’- He was told. But it wasn’t that easy!
Join us as he shares his journey of living with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, depression, and dyslexia, and how these invisible challenges impacted his life and career. This conversation offers a gentle yet powerful...
Beat OCD with radical bravery

OCD can ruin your life if you start living in avoidance and if you believe that all your catastrophic thoughts are the truth. Guilt, shame, embarrassment follow as OCD takes a grip of every aspect of your life and you limit your action in fear of feeling terrible.
It seems to be impossible to get out of this powerful grip, but there’s more than one way through the darkness of OCD, and it starts with a single step. Join us as we explore the principles of Radical Bravery with insights from Renee Zukin's journey, learning how to...
AI & Your Health: The Future of Personalized Medical Care

Are you tired of the endless frustrations of navigating our complex medical system? Has your condition become chronic because you are unsure on how to navigate it and your doctor has only limited time for consultations?
Do you feel like your doctors are overworked, and personalized care is a distant dream?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, this episode is for you. We are diving deep into a revolutionary approach to healthcare that promises to make medical care more wholesome, personalized, and truly focused on you.
Join me and health...
Shape your AI future

Are we on the brink of an AI revolution that could reshape our lives in unimaginable ways? Are we worrying about losing our jobs and ways of going things as usual? This is a very real concern that can affect our emotional well being.
This week, we sit down with Kristof Horompoly, Head of AI Risk Management at ValidMind and former Head of Responsible AI for JP Morgan Chase, to tackle the biggest questions surrounding artificial intelligence.
Kristof, with his deep expertise in the field, helps us navigate the promises and perils of AI. We...
AI Mastery for the Seasoned Mind.

Are you a seasoned human aged 60 plus and and feeling a bit overwhelmed by the rapid pace of new technology, especially AI? Perhaps you've even watched videos suggesting that Artificial Intelligence might soon wipe away humanity, leaving you with a sense that this is the end. Rest assured, those anxieties are common, and this episode is designed to help you navigate them. We'll dive into your biggest concerns, from worries about losing control and the sheer complexity of new tech, to very real fears about losing privacy and the increasing risks of security threats like deepfakes.
I...
Survive & Thrive in the AI Age

In this insightful episode, join us as we delve into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence with esteemed behavioral scientist Dr. Ja-Naé Duane and visionary futurist Steven Fisher, co-authors of the new book "SuperShifts: Transforming How We Live, Learn, and Work in the Age of Intelligence."
They'll explore the profound impact of AI on society, particularly focusing on the emergence of the "AI-Native Generation" and how future kids will learn and live. New technology is reshaping education, socialization, and even our very identities.
Instead of succumbing to fear, Dr. Duane and Steven Fisher encourage us...
AI tools: From growth to balance

How is AI going to change the way we work, and is it really going to be a total disaster as some are forecasting? Or maybe there is a way that we can all gain something from it? Before we get into panic mode, let us learn about it.
In this episode we focus on the ever changing artificial intelligence input into our lives and especially in the workplace. Zac Engler, CEO at Bodhi AI, writes about machine learning, AI, and how artificial intelligence is now becoming more than a tool. Machines are becoming partners, competitors, and m...
AI in the classroom: how will Artificial Intelligence impact our schooling system?

As AI enters the classrooms, are we all going to become lazy and maybe lacking critical thinking?
Dean Batson, a lecturer at Arizona State University, will address the issue. Dean teaches communication, persuasion, and consumer behavior and works with students of all ages, mostly Gen Z.
In this interview, Dean will highlight what we’re getting wrong about AI in education and specifically:
Why adaptability is the new communication superpower2) How to teach students to spot bias, think deeper, and still own their ideas
3) What happens when people treat AI like a short...
Four steps to conquer stress

If you are feeling stressed, and it sounds like this is affecting your well being, this episode is for you. Keynote speaker Tom Flateau, an expert in applied neuroscience, specializes in helping individuals, families and organizations to understand what stress is and how to manage it.
He will share with us the four steps he recommends to become resilient and bounce back by using the latest neuroscience findings.
Ready to rewire your brain and feel great? Do not miss the episode and share it with your friends.
You can find Tom for further...
The Mind-Body Roots of Fibromyalgia, anxiety and panic attacks

Join me in this inspiring episode featuring Megan Shekleton, a certified Executive Coach and 3x founder, as she shares her powerful journey of overcoming anxiety, panic attacks, and fibromyalgia.
For over a decade, Megan battled these challenges while climbing the corporate ladder, ultimately finding lasting transformation through the very coaching tools she uses with her clients.
Discover how vision clarity, mindset reprogramming, and nervous system regulation can lead to profound personal change. Megan discusses cognitive, somatic, and subconscious practices that helped her reclaim her life and find true fulfillment.
Learn how to access too...
Beyond Riding: The Healing Power of Equine Therapy

I am very excited to share my new episode with you! You will discover the transformative power of equine-supported therapy in this insightful interview with Christina Marz, a psychotherapist based in Ecuador.
If you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or a lack of connection, you'll be amazed by the profound impact of interacting with horses.
Christina explains the crucial difference between recreational riding and therapeutic engagement, revealing how horses in a therapeutic setting can foster calm, balance, and compassion.
Learn about heart coherence and how the peaceful energy of horses can be transferred to...
Rewrite Your story: heal your inner critic

Feel the weight of constant self-criticism? You're not alone. That relentless voice in your head, telling you you're not enough, is a burden many carry. Imagine transforming your pain into power. This episode dives deep into the roots of self-judgment, revealing it's a learned behavior, not your truth. Our guide will be Hope Rose, an entrepreneur and author and wellness advocate whose mission includes helping others navigate loss and grief.
✅ Discover the key to breaking free: We'll explore practical steps to release shame and embrace self-compassion, rewriting the negative narratives that hold you back.
✅ Learn to r...
From Chronic Illness to Lasting Wellness: 5 zero-cost steps to prevent or reverse common lifestyle conditions

From Chronic Illness to Lasting Wellness: 5 zero-cost steps to prevent or reverse common lifestyle conditions
In an era where chronic illness and mental health struggles seem increasingly prevalent, we often reach for quick fixes without addressing the root causes. Join us as we delve into the profound impact of modern lifestyle on our overall wellbeing and how ancient wisdom can change that.
This week, we welcome again Lauren Farina-Prieto, LCSW, a psychotherapist and performance coach, who brings a functional, integrative approach to mental and physical health. Lauren, who is certified also with the Institute for In...
Understanding emotionally unavailable partners

Are you caught in a relationship with someone who remains emotionally distant? Do you feel shut out, wondering if it's your fault? Or are you unable to open up with your date or partner and you can’t understand why?
Join us as we explore the complex world of emotionally unavailable partners with Hollywood hypnotherapist and holistic coach, Maria Freeman.
Maria reveals where emotional unavailability often stems from. We'll delve into how unresolved issues can manifest in behaviors like addiction and avoidance, and how cultural influences can also play a role.
Discover why so...
How to avoid Narcissistic Relationships: red flags and boundaries

Have you ever felt drawn to someone who later revealed a manipulative or destructive side? This episode is dedicated to understanding and avoiding narcissistic individuals in your life. Join us as we speak with Dr. Sarah Schewitz, a Licensed Psychologist and Founder of Couples Learn, who specializes in helping people build healthy relationships.
We'll explore the subtle qualities that attract narcissistic individuals and, more importantly, learn how to identify red flags early on. Dr. Sarah will equip you with actionable strategies to recognize these traits and protect yourself from emotional harm.
This episode cuts through...
Understanding chronic pain

Chronic pain is an invisible burden, often underestimated and overlooked. On this episode, we delve into the profound connection between chronic pain and mental health with Professional Clinical Counselor J. Cangialosi. Discover how chronic pain can trigger depression and anxiety, and conversely, how mental health struggles can intensify pain.
We'll explore the science behind chronic pain, understanding how it differs from acute pain and its significant impact on daily life. Learn why raising awareness is crucial for those suffering, and how it can improve access to vital medical and mental health care.
More importantly, we'll f...
Healing OCD with Neuroscience

Is OCD holding you back? On this episode of Create with Franz, we're tackling the complex world of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder with expert Dr. Avigail Lev. We'll explore the science behind compulsions, the different faces of OCD, and why early intervention is key. Dr. Lev shares her insights on schema and somatic therapy, and introduces NeuroImmerse, a revolutionary approach combining neuroscience and immersive sound.
Get ready to understand your brain better, break free from anxiety, and discover powerful tools for healing. Plus, access free guided exercises to experience the transformative power of NeuroImmerse!
Topic covered: OCD, O...
Finding peace as a high performer

Are you a high-performing individual who's achieved significant success, yet still grapples with stress, codependency, or a sense of unease? Many high achievers face these challenges, often driven by personality traits like perfectionism and people-pleasing.
In this episode, we talk with Lauren Farina-Prieto, LCSW, a psychotherapist, performance coach, and founder of Invited Psychotherapy & Coaching, who specializes in supporting high performers.
Lauren, whose work has been featured in publications like Forbes and Business Insider, delves into the "high-performer archetype," exploring the complex relationship between these traits and both achievement and well-being. She shares her ins...
Belonging: The Missing Piece of Workplace Culture

Join us as we delve into the crucial topic of belonging in the workplace with Dr. Beth Kaplan, a global expert on the subject and author of the upcoming book, Braving the Workplace: Belonging at the Breaking Point. Dr. Kaplan shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including her newborn's cancer diagnosis, depression, and workplace trauma, to find her own sense of belonging.
She'll reveal groundbreaking research and practical strategies for individuals to cultivate belonging in any work environment, reclaim their power, and unlock their full potential. Dr. Kaplan also provides a step-by-step guide for le...
Mind Over Matter: Bone Health Mindset

My guest Elizabeth Katzman, is a seasoned functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and a certified perimenopause expert. She offers a holistic approach to supporting women through this transition. With a strong background in medical law, Elizabeth combines scientific knowledge with practical advice to help women set and achieve sustainable health goals.
Today Elizabeth will share valuable insights into:
🦴 The unique bone health challenges faced by women, including thin women, including the impact of different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
⚖️ The dangers of traditional weight loss approaches on bone density.
🍲 The critical...
From Fear to Fortune: Transforming Your Relationship with Money

Do you ever feel like your relationship with money is…complicated? Like there's something deeper going on than just budgeting and spreadsheets? You're not alone. This week, we talk with Wealth Consciousness Specialist Roselyn Perez, LCSW, about the surprising connection between your nervous system and your finances.
Roselyn reveals how childhood experiences and societal messages can actually wire us for certain money behaviors, often without us even realizing it. We explore how the need for safety plays a huge role in our financial decisions, and how those old wounds of abandonment, rejection, or unworthiness can show up in...
Calm your busy mind

Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and unable to switch off? You're not alone. In this episode, we talk with award-winning coach and bestselling author Sue Belton, who knows firsthand the crushing weight of a demanding career. Sue shares her powerful journey from burnt-out BBC TV producer to leading leadership coach, revealing the secrets to reclaiming your peace of mind. She dives into the core principles of her book, Screw Meditation!, offering practical, actionable strategies to tame that busy brain, boost productivity, and finally enjoy life again. If you're tired of quick fixes that don't work and crave real change, this episode...
Our Home, Our Chores: when Caring means Sharing

Feeling like you're carrying the mental load in your relationship? From scheduling doctor's appointments and driving the kids to school, to remembering birthdays and sending cards, the invisible labor of managing a household can create resentment and impact relationship satisfaction.
You're not alone. This week, we talk with licensed couple therapist Kate Engler about this often-unseen burden and why it's so prevalent. She'll explain how couples can work together to create a more equitable division of all household responsibilities – physical, mental, and emotional.
Learn how to move past defensiveness and towards real s...
Find Your Voice: Reclaiming Your Power as an HR Leader

HR leaders are the backbone of any organization, yet they often face immense pressure and burnout, prioritizing everyone else's needs above their own. This can lead to a loss of self, voice, and confidence, turning them into reactive "ticket takers" rather than proactive change agents.
In this episode, we speak with Mindy Honcoop, a seasoned HR executive with 24 years of experience, who is dedicated to helping HR professionals reclaim their power and thrive. Mindy shares her insights on the challenges HR leaders face and offers practical strategies for healing, reconnecting with oneself, and finding your voice.
Find Your Tribe: Overcoming Loneliness & Embracing Change

Feeling stuck in a rut? Yearning for deeper connection and a life bursting with purpose? Join us as we delve into the challenges and rewards of breaking free from the familiar.
In this episode, we explore practical strategies to overcome loneliness and cultivate meaningful connections, even when embarking on a major life change like moving abroad. Our guest, Christina Marz, a renowned holistic psychologist, and a German expat living in Ecuador, shares her insights on:
Understanding the root causes of loneliness and disconnection. Breaking free from limiting beliefs and societal expectations. Cultivating self-compassion and self-love. Building...From Ashes to Alchemy: Transform your relationships

Tired of dating fireworks that fizzle out into ashes? You're not alone. In this episode, we dive deep with Orna and Matthew Walker, California-based holistic dating coaches, and explore the hidden patterns that might be sabotaging your love life.
We'll uncover how childhood beliefs, societal pressures to rush into intimacy, and the fear of loss can unknowingly push away the very connections you crave.
Orna and Matthew, with Matthew also a skilled hypnotherapist, bring a unique blend of wisdom and practical strategies to help you break free from these limiting patterns.
Get ready...
Life, Loss, & Little Ones: A Conversation About Death

In this episode, we explore the delicate topic of how to talk to children about death. Joining us is Dr. Marianne Matzo, a nurse with years of experience in child development. We'll delve into the importance of honest and age-appropriate communication, dispelling common misconceptions and the potential harm of euphemisms.
Dr. Matzo will guide us on how to address children's questions and fears with compassion and understanding, helping them navigate grief and prepare for the inevitable. Together, we'll learn how to approach this sensitive subject with openness and create a supportive environment for children to pr...
How to be laser focused on what matters to you

Remember those shiny, worthy goals you set every new year, and by mid January start to drift away in a super busy calendar, where you do so much - but most of it is not bringing the results you were looking for?
Do you EVER, ever realize that a whole hour of your time has gone down the drain and you have no idea what happened? (And was there any digital device close by?) Or did you start a task, just to leave it half way to search for something, then half finished a totally different job...
Psychedelics: the future of mental health?

Are you looking for a way to step out of chronic mental illness by resetting your brain?
In this episode, we meet Kathryn A. Walker, a former ER and ICU nurse turned CRNA and CEO of Revitalist Lifestyle and Wellness, (with clinics in Florida and Tennessee).
Kathryn has witnessed firsthand the limitations of our current mental health system, where patients are often left feeling stigmatized, unsupported, not listened to by doctors, and chronically ill with a ‘one size fits all approach that does not help them.
Through years of intensive training as a ps...
Cancer: A Story of Hope and Healing

Have you just been diagnosed with an incurable disease or a serious health condition? It might feel overwhelming and scary for you and your family. We want to help you lighten up the emotional roller coaster you are probably facing.
Our guest Dawn Mc Grath, a vibrant Chicago mother of two, shares her unexpected journey after a shocking cancer diagnosis that changed her life just before Christmas 2023. What she thought was just a routine tests brought a startling revelation that something was wrong and needed medical intervention.
The hospital trips, the treatment and realising just...
Unlocking Peak Performance: The Pure Sports Mindset

Are you looking to take your sports performance to the next level? Whether you're a beginner, a coach, or a professional athlete, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we'll discuss three essential skills that will help you achieve your goals:
Mindfulness: Learn how to be fully present in the moment, which can help you focus on your performance and reduce stress. Goal setting: Set realistic and achievable goals that will help you stay motivated and on track. Visualization: Use visualization to improve your performance and build confidence.Our expert guest, Kate Schneider, a...
The Power of Purpose: Creating a Life That Matters

In this episode, we explore the power of intentional planning for the New Year. Join me as I interview Elaine Proulx, a wellness expert who guides individuals in discovering their purpose and setting meaningful goals.
Here's what you'll learn:
The pitfalls of traditional New Year's resolutions: We'll discuss why generic resolutions often fail and how to avoid falling into the same traps. The importance of values-based goal setting: Elaine will share a practical exercise to help you identify your core values and use them to guide your goal-setting process. Creating actionable and sustainable goals: We'll delve...EMDR: A Breakthrough Therapy for Trauma and Anxiety

The new Year is upon us! How about a fresh start by getting rid of those depression and anxiety-triggering old memories of negative events. If you have enough of feeling you are stuck in the past, and you want to know how to neutralize painful old memories, join us for an insightful conversation with expert guest Janet Bayramyan, LCSW.
In our chat we will delve into the world of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). In this episode, you'll discover:
How EMDR works: Learn about the science behind EMDR and how it helps reprocess distressing memories. T...Holiday joy for divorced parents

The holiday season can be a bittersweet time, especially for those navigating the complexities of divorce. In this episode, we're joined by Nicole Sodoma, a divorce attorney and author of "PLEASE DON'T SAY YOU'RE SORRY," who offers invaluable insights and practical advice for finding joy and peace during the holidays after divorce.
Nicole understands the unique challenges divorced individuals face, from managing loneliness and navigating awkward family dynamics to rebuilding cherished traditions and prioritizing self-care. She draws upon her professional expertise and personal experiences to provide listeners with actionable strategies for coping with the emotional rollercoaster of...