It's Where I Am with Zandra Polard

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion on mental health and wellness, focusing on COVID-19 vaccination attitudes among older adults. Eric, a pediatric physician, and Chiquita, a gerontologist, discuss the personal nature of vaccine decisions, noting a general fatigue among older adults. They emphasize the importance of self-care, including sleep, diet, exercise, stress management, and social connections. Eric highlights the success of vaccines in reducing diseases like measles and the importance of parental self-care for their children's health. They also touch on the benefits and limitations of telehealth, advocating for informed patient-doctor communication and regular wellness checks.

The discussion focused on asthma in pediatric populations, particularly among African Americans, highlighting its inflammatory nature and genetic predisposition. Key preventive measures include awareness, identifying triggers, and maintaining a healthy diet to avoid obesity. Regular well checks and vaccinations are crucial for newborns and elders. The conversation also addressed ageism, advocating for the term "older adults" over "seniors." Chiquita emphasized the importance of education and caregiving for older adults, including those with dementia, and stressed the need for early diagnosis and proper care. The program concluded with a reminder to tune in for part two.

The discussion on "It's Where I Am" focused on mental health, civil unrest, and the impact of news consumption on anxiety and depression. Host Zandra Polard and guests Wes Knight and Jinx Diaz discussed the recent peaceful protests, including the No Kings Day event with 5 million participants. They highlighted the correlation between negative news and mental health, emphasizing the importance of taking breaks from constant news exposure. The conversation also covered the fears and challenges faced by the Latino community, including the financial burden of maintaining U.S. citizenship and the misuse of power by ICE. Practical advice included...

The discussion on "It's Where I Am" focused on the mental health impact of civil unrest, particularly the No Kings Day protests. Zandra Polard, Wes Knight, and Daniel Isaiah Elias, aka AM, discussed the emotional toll on families and the lack of therapeutic support. They compared the current unrest to past events like the Rodney King riots and highlighted the systemic issues driving protests. The conversation also touched on the historical context of fascism in America, the economic impact of COVID-19, and the destabilization of regulatory bodies. They emphasized the importance of education, activism, and community support in addressing...

Zandra Polard and an anonymous guest discuss autism, its spectrum, and misconceptions. The guest emphasizes the lack of definitive causes for autism, mentioning theories like paternal age and in-utero factors. He highlights successful cases like Elon Musk and Bill Gates, noting their high-functioning autism. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial, with treatment including speech, occupational therapy, and ABA. The conversation shifts to mental health, focusing on the use of Metformin for weight management in patients on antidepressants. The importance of self-referral for therapy and recognizing mental health issues early is stressed, along with the need for better communication among...

The discussion focused on the Altadena fires, highlighting the community's multi-racial harmony and the devastating impact of the fires. The fires, which affected 161 historically reviewed homes, were attributed to Edison's negligence, with the tower's sensor going off 87 times. The conversation also touched on the lack of government and insurance company support, the historical significance of Altadena, and the challenges residents face in rebuilding. The speaker emphasized the need for better resources and support, particularly from insurance companies and the government, to help the community recover.

Zandra Polard discusses water pollution with environmental scientist Amber Smith, focusing on stormwater pollution. Amber explains that acid rain, caused by air pollution, can be harmful to forests and aquatic life. She highlights that untreated stormwater picks up pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides, which directly affect waterways and sea life. Amber emphasizes the importance of choosing organic and local produce to reduce pesticide runoff. She also discusses the varying state regulations for stormwater pollution prevention and the impact of industrial facilities. The conversation also touches on the benefits of spring water over purified water and the misconceptions around...

Natasha McCrea, an author, director, and empowerment strategist, discusses the importance of self-care and breaking free from the "hamster wheel" of life. She emphasizes creating personalized self-care routines and the significance of accountability. Natasha shares her method of blocking two hours on one's calendar for self-care and the concept of "pattern interrupts" to break habitual behaviors. She also highlights the need for women to prioritize themselves to avoid burnout and achieve their goals. Additionally, Natasha talks about her whiskey brand, Jackson McCrea, which aims to disrupt the male-dominated whiskey market by catering to women's preferences.

Zandra Polard hosts a radio show featuring her son, Roman Anderson, and his friends, Teyshaun and Kayvon. Roman, moving to Georgia, discusses his nervousness about leaving home for an extended period. Teyshaun shares his challenges of being away from Hawaii, while Kayvon reflects on his socially awkward nature. They discuss their friendships, formed online and in school, and their future plans. Teyshaun is studying finance at UNLV, inspired by his parents' business. Kayvon prefers blue-collar work, having tried being a CNA. Roman aims to pursue YouTube and streaming, motivated by the move. Zandra expresses her nervousness about Roman leaving...

Zandra Polard interviews Lauren Tallman, a writer known for her erotica, including her latest book, "Harem of the Dragon." Tallman discusses her journey from writing short stories to founding the Erotic Writers Group of Las Vegas. She describes "Harem of the Dragon," set in 15th-century China, detailing the life of a eunuch named Long in the Emperor's harem. Tallman emphasizes the importance of sensuality and research in her work, sharing insights into historical accuracy and the emotional depth of her characters. She also touches on her column "Seniors Still Do It," advocating for sensuality in relationships at any age.<...

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion with Brionna Hines, president of the Southern Nevada chapter of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). Hines explains bipolar disorder, its types (I and II), and symptoms, including manic and depressive episodes. She highlights the importance of medication, therapy, and coping mechanisms. Hines also discusses the role of DBSA in providing support and resources, including peer-led groups and warm lines for non-crisis support. She emphasizes the need for understanding and validation, especially for those experiencing depressive symptoms. Hines also mentions the challenges of medication adjustments and the stigma around mental health treatment.

Daniel Isaiah Elias, also known as AM, discussed his journey of discovering his father's adoption and his own family roots, which led to a name change in 2022. He emphasized the importance of mental health and wellness, inspired by his mentally ill mother, through his website, Genius Only, which offers music, clothing, books, and health products. Daniel shared his experiences performing in London with DJ AG and his focus on creating personal music. He also highlighted the challenges faced by the younger generation due to social media and technology, advocating for resilience and purpose. Daniel concluded by performing a rap...

Zandra Polard and Madison Gulli discuss the impact of menopause on sexual health. Gulli explains that perimenopause, which can last 5-10 years, often starts in the 40s and includes symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. She emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues with healthcare providers, noting that traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been debunked and that bioidentical hormones are now recommended. Gulli also highlights the need for lifestyle changes, such as prioritizing sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet, and stresses the importance of communication with partners and maintaining social connections.

Dr. G, a mental health professional, discusses his work with patients suffering from severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, at Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center in Las Vegas. He highlights the success of their wraparound program, which aims to reduce recidivism and hospital admissions by providing outpatient care and transportation. The center serves up to 85 patients daily. Dr. G also announces the expansion to San Bernardino, California, where they have already started seeing patients. He emphasizes the importance of addressing trauma and mental health issues, encouraging individuals to seek help and utilize available...

Mark Thomas and his fiancée Kelly have been victims of harassment and assault by their neighbor since 2019. Despite filing multiple police reports and complaints, the city prosecutor and police ignored their pleas. On October 2, 2022, six people assaulted Mark and Kelly. Despite being the victim, Mark was falsely accused by the city prosecutor. Mark was later shot by the neighbor while trying to get help. The neighbor, who has a history of violence, was only jailed for a week. Mark and Kelly, an interracial couple, face ongoing harassment and are struggling financially. They are seeking justice through media and l...

Zandra Polard and Angie Amico discuss the concept of midlife crisis, which Amico rebrands as the "edge of reinvention." Amico, a 45-year-old executive mind coach, emphasizes that midlife is a time for self-questioning and seeking more out of life. She introduces her new YouTube channel, "The Edge of Reinvention," launching March 15, aimed at providing practical advice for those in their 40s and 50s. Amico encourages viewers to challenge limiting beliefs, reevaluate relationships, and embrace new opportunities, such as travel or further education. She stresses the importance of mindset and self-acceptance in reinventing one's life.

Zandra Polard interviews her sister Zaneta Polard about the emotional impact of the Eaton Canyon fires. Zaneta recounts the night of the fire, describing the lack of warning and the urgency of evacuation. She highlights the heroic efforts of a neighbor, Jeff, who saved their house from burning. Zaneta discusses the aftermath, including the toxicity of their home and the community's resilience. They emphasize the importance of checking on neighbors, especially the vulnerable, and provide resources for mental health support. Zaneta also plans to volunteer to aid in the recovery efforts, underscoring the need for community support.

Zandra Polard and Rick Morton discuss retirement planning, emphasizing the importance of socializing, having a plan, and staying active. Rick highlights the benefits of being married and volunteering, mentioning his work with the Nevada Homeless Alliance and schools. He advocates for financial planning, including consulting a financial advisor and understanding military benefits. Rick also shares his passion for pickleball and cooking, suggesting activities like ethnic food nights. He advises against retiring too early, noting that working an extra year can significantly extend lifespan. Rick plans to continue writing and teaching post-retirement, stressing the importance of having a buffer zone...

Dr. Sandra Pierre-Louis discusses the challenges of getting men to prioritize their health, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups and addressing issues like diabetes, mental health, and erectile dysfunction. She highlights that 72% of men would rather do household chores than visit a doctor, and 77% prefer shopping with their partner. Dr. Pierre-Louis stresses the role of family involvement, particularly in educating adult children about health. She also mentions a Cleveland Clinic survey indicating men's reluctance to seek medical care due to fear of diagnosis. Dr. Pierre-Louis's practice offers both in-person and virtual mental health services, with appointments available.

Zandra Polard discusses business planning with Coach Amber J, emphasizing the importance of having a clear business plan and understanding financial needs before starting a business. Coach Amber J highlights the necessity of securing funding through loans or grants and knowing your target audience. They discuss the role of AI tools like ChatGPT in creating business plans and the significance of personal development and coaching. Coach Amber J also mentions her experience in fashion and rebranding, her podcast "Key Talk," and her book "The Key: You Are the Master Key." The conversation underscores the importance of investing in personal...

Zandra Polard discusses the issue of "failure to launch" among young adults, attributing it to social media and technology overexposure, leading to social isolation, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Sandra Pierre-Louis from Divine Soul Mental Health emphasizes the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and establishing routines for children and young adults. She highlights the need for personalized care, considering both physical and mental health factors. Dr. Pierre-Louis also discusses her work at UNLV, focusing on chronic illnesses and mental health, and the importance of early career planning and volunteer work. She encourages parents to seek professional help and mentorship for...

Dr. Goeglein discussed her book "Don't Die Waiting to Be Brave" and the upcoming "Unicorn Ageless Edge Challenge" for 2025, focusing on positive psychology techniques to live in the present. She emphasized managing thoughts to avoid future anxieties, using Thanksgiving as an example. Dr. Goeglein suggested setting boundaries and having open conversations to mitigate family tensions during holidays. She also introduced a new six-month program starting in 2025, which will include deep dives into books like "The Big Goal" and "The Tomorrow Mind" to help participants achieve their goals and adapt to AI's impact. The program will involve monthly Zoom sessions...

Zandra Polard interviews Shane Mosley Jr. about discipline, particularly in the context of boxing and personal life. Shane emphasizes the importance of setting goals, prioritizing time, and maintaining a disciplined diet. He shares his experience of training his son, who struggled with schoolwork, and how discipline transitioned from boxing to academics. Shane discusses the significance of having a framework for success, whether in sports or personal life, and the value of mentorship. He also touches on the role of faith in his life, the importance of family time, and the benefits of homeschooling his children. The conversation concludes with...

Zandra Polard interviews Denise Hooks, a psychologist specializing in trauma, somatic experiencing, and psychedelics. Denise explains the differences between cognitive behavioral therapy and somatic experiencing, emphasizing the latter's focus on the body's response to trauma. She discusses how trauma is stored physically and the importance of releasing it through somatic practices. Denise also explores the use of psychedelics in therapy, highlighting their non-addictive nature and effectiveness in treating addiction and PTSD. She stresses the need for post-psychedelic integration support to prevent shock and ensure proper psychological integration.

Zandra Polard discusses Educare, an agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Executive Director, Kelli Slaughter, explains that Educare provides services from age 18 onwards, with five residential homes in Las Vegas catering to those with high medical needs, such as g-tubes and colostomy bags. Staff undergo extensive training, including 40 hours initially, and homes house six individuals with 24/7 care. Educare receives referrals from hospitals and nursing homes and emphasizes independence and social activities. The agency also offers employment opportunities and benefits for staff. The conversation highlights the need for more services and the challenges in providing care for...

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion with life coach Perry Richardson and Katie Ordonez on self-love and adolescent development. Perry's podcast, "The Mindset Babe," focuses on empowering women through positive self-talk, action towards dreams, and self-compassion. She emphasizes the importance of celebrating small achievements monthly. Katie, who works with adolescents, highlights the significance of instilling self-care habits early. They discuss the impact of societal messages on self-worth and the necessity of recognizing and addressing negative thoughts. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding and celebrating one's happiness and the role of peer support in mental health.

Dr. Andrea Goeglein discusses positive psychology, emphasizing a shift from focusing on mental illness to understanding what makes people thrive. She highlights the importance of mental health awareness and daily practices to maintain well-being. Goeglein suggests exercises like writing down the first thought of the day and reframing negative thoughts. She introduces "seeding your dreams" to improve future days and journaling with gratitude. Goeglein also mentions her "Unicorn Challenge," a 60-day program to integrate positive psychology practices, and her past podcast, "Hey Boss Lady." She encourages daily habits to prevent negative thought patterns and stresses the importance of community...

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion on bipolar disorder, featuring Brionna Hines, President of the Depression Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). Brionna shares her journey of being diagnosed with bipolar type one in 2018 after experiencing severe depression and a manic episode. She emphasizes the importance of professional help, the challenges of finding the right medication, and the role of peer-led support groups like DBSA. Brionna also discusses the impact of bipolar disorder on her family and the significance of understanding triggers and coping strategies. The conversation highlights the need for mental health awareness and resources, including upcoming events like the NAMI...

In this enlightening episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard engages with school counselor Katie Ordonez to explore the vital differences between school counselors and psychologists. They delve into the importance of social-emotional wellness in students, discuss innovative programs like the Hope Squad aimed at suicide prevention, and highlight the critical role peers play in supporting each other. Katie shares valuable insights on identifying warning signs of distress in youth, the significance of mindfulness, and the transformative power of journaling. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in fostering mental health awareness and support within schools...

Zandra Polard hosts a discussion on mental health and wellness, focusing on adolescents. Dr. Kennard emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in their child's treatment, highlighting that parents are experts on their child. Danielle McCafferty stresses the need for parents to regulate their own emotions to model healthy behavior for their children. They discuss the significance of understanding both the child's and parent's perspectives. Dr. Kennard introduces Sun Arch Academy, a residential treatment facility for adolescents aged 12-17, offering multidisciplinary services. They also touch on the importance of community support and advocating for oneself when seeking mental health resources.<...

In this episode, host Zandra Polard sits down with Dr. Kennard, a behavioral health expert, and Danielle McCafferty, an educator and trauma-informed yoga instructor, to discuss the challenges of working with adolescents. They explore practical strategies for teachers, like fostering trust and connection, dealing with trauma, and managing classroom behaviors. Dr. Kennard shares her experience from a residential care facility, explaining how to support adolescents with complex needs. Meanwhile, Danielle emphasizes the importance of empathy, somatic practices, and creating structured environments in schools.

In this enlightening episode of It's Where I Am, host Zandra Polard interviews renowned yoga instructor Danielle McCafferty about her innovative approaches to stress management and trauma healing through yoga and breathwork. Danielle shares her extensive studies across Southeast Asia and Europe, highlighting techniques like ecstatic breathwork and Thai massage that bridge somatic therapies with modern wellness practices. The conversation delves into the scientific benefits of breathwork, its application in behavioral health, and Danielle’s mission to make yoga accessible and relatable through humor and community. Additionally, Danielle discusses her upcoming Breathwork Academy and initiatives to support adolescents and ad...

In this episode of "It's Where I Am," Zandra Polard sits down with Kristopher Fields, a remarkable community leader from Texas who has turned his life around from being an at-risk youth to receiving prestigious honors like the United States Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Kristopher shares his journey of overcoming personal struggles, finding redemption, and dedicating his life to inspiring the next generation. Through his organization, "Wise Up to Rise Up," and his book, From Dreams to Wings, Kristopher empowers others to realize their potential and make a lasting impact on the world. This conversation is a powerful reminder...

In this heartfelt episode, Zandra Polard sits down with Brian Hagens, founder of Dream Dads, an organization dedicated to supporting fathers across the country. Brian shares his deeply personal journey of growing up in Long Beach, becoming a father, and the challenges he faced in advocating for fathers in a society that often overlooks them. The conversation takes a profound turn as Brian, known as "Limmie" to his newly reunited family, recounts his experience of discovering his adoption, reconnecting with his biological family, and navigating the complexities of identity, loss, and love. This episode is a touching exploration of...

In this episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard sits down with Danielle McCafferty, a former crime scene analyst turned yoga instructor. Danielle shares her journey from the criminal justice field to becoming a yoga teacher, focusing on trauma healing. They discuss how yoga can be a powerful tool for addressing and releasing trauma stored in the body. Danielle also talks about her book "You Have the Key," which offers mantras and affirmations for personal growth. Listen in as they explore the benefits of yoga for mental health, the importance of self-care, and the integration of mindfulness...

In this inspiring episode, Zandra Polard sits down with Ashley Tesoro, reigning Mrs. Universe, to discuss her extraordinary journey in the world of pageantry and beyond. From starting in beauty pageants at the tender age of six to becoming a successful soap opera actress and now holding multiple prestigious titles, Ashley shares her experiences and insights. She delves into the mental health challenges of the industry, the importance of self-acceptance, and the significance of charitable work. Additionally, Ashley talks about her nonprofit work with her husband and announces her exciting new title, Mrs. Universe International 2024-2025. This episode is...

In this episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard explores the unexpected mental health benefits of boxing with Coach Danny Vela of Undefeated Boxing in Henderson, Nevada. Zandra shares her personal journey from a concerned mother to an enthusiastic supporter of the sport. Coach Danny delves into how boxing builds work ethic, character, and confidence in both children and adults. They discuss the gym's supportive environment, its impact on the community, and the transformative stories of those who have trained there. Tune in to learn how boxing can be a powerful tool for personal growth and mental...

In this episode, host Zandra Polard returns from a sabbatical and dives into a conversation with Alex Bernal, the Clark County Parks and Recreation Community Outreach Coordinator, and his colleague, Sharon Steele. They discuss their innovative rebranding of the "Gang Intervention Team" to the "Gap Intervention Team" and the multifaceted approach they take to support at-risk youth in Las Vegas. They delve into the importance of community involvement, preventive measures, and the crucial role of parental engagement. Alex also shares his personal journey as a foster parent, highlighting the impact of providing a stable and supportive environment for children...

Join Zandra Polard as she continues her insightful discussion with Alex Bernal and Sharon Steele in part two of their conversation on community outreach and youth intervention in Las Vegas. This episode delves into the critical services provided by Clark County's recreational centers, including educational support, life skills workshops, and vital resources for at-risk youth. The guests share inspiring success stories and emphasize the importance of addressing community needs through trust, collaboration, and innovative programs. Tune in to learn how local efforts are making a significant impact on fostering positive change and building a safer, more supportive environment for...

In this episode of "It's Where I Am" on 91.5 FM, guest host Dr. David Gennis from Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center discusses the integration of occupational therapy in mental health services. Joined by colleague Anna Ketron Cusano, an occupational therapist, they delve into the basics of OT, its historical roots, and its application in enhancing the quality of life for patients with severe mental illness. The conversation highlights the holistic, individualized approach of Great Mind Counseling, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and the positive impact of incorporating diverse therapeutic modalities. Listeners also get a glimpse of upcoming...