The Mental Wealth Podcast

Fighting isn’t the problem. Fighting badly is.

Marriage and family therapist Emily Baggett joins Dr. Ethan Levine, Rob, and Mukund to explain how couples can turn conflict into connection. Emily specializes in couples work, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. About half her clients are not yet married: dating, engaged, or discerning marriage. She explains why conflict is healthy and how to see what’s really driving the fight.

In this episode:
Why opposites attract, then drive each other crazyLooking past the content of a fight (the dishwasher) to the context (what...

How do you quiet a mind that never stops moving? Psychologist and meditation coach Adrienne Charleston, founder of Butterfly Flow, joins Dr. Ethan Levine, Rob, and Mukund to break down meditation in practical terms. Adrienne went from military paralegal and court reporter to prison psychologist. She explains why she sees meditation as listening, not talking, and how she coaches clients at every level. In this episode:
Why belly breathing is the foundation, and how singing, sports, or yoga can helpGuided meditation vs. sitting in silence, and how to pick what fits youStarting at two minutes instead of thirtyMeditating for...

Pharmacist Dr. Monica Leriger joins the Mental Wealth Pod team to unpack how aging changes drug metabolism, why "new symptom = possible drug side effect," anticholinergic burden and cognitive fog, herbal supplement risks, generics vs. brand names, psych meds and food/drug interactions, and the future of personalized pharmacology.

Top highlights:
Rule of thumb: any new symptom in an older adult should be treated as a possible drug side effect firstAnticholinergic burden from combined OTC/prescription meds can mimic dementiaHerbals aren't regulated for potency/interactions — same "50mg" label can vary by sourceGenerics are FDA-equivalent except thyroid meds, where ma...

Dr. John Mezzullo — dual-trained in internal medicine and psychiatry — joins The Mental Wealth Pod team for a wide-ranging conversation on what's really changed in mental healthcare. Drawing on decades of experience across geriatric psychiatry and now young adult populations in a college-town referral center, Dr. Mezzullo pulls back the curtain on why he's seeing dramatically more psychosis and trauma-driven illness in patients as young as 18 — and what's actually driving it: substance use, COVID-era isolation, academic pressure, and a generation that's more "coddled" than the one before it.

He makes the case that psychiatry is still a young science — closer t...

Psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author Dr. Jennie Byrne talks to the Mental Wealth team this week to unpack ADHD in high-achieving professionals — CEOs, lawyers, doctors, entrepreneurs— who are told they're "too high-functioning" to have it. 

Dr. Byrne explains why she calls ADHD "a terrible name" and makes the case for thinking of it as neurodiversity rather than disorder. She walks through her three-part assessment process (clinical interview, computer-based attention testing, and executive function rating scales), and shares why sleep and screen habits are often mistaken for ADHD. The conversation covers:
Why professionals are so often misdiagnosed (bipolar, anxiety) befor...

In this episode of the Mental Wealth Podcast, geriatrician and hospice/palliative medicine specialist Dr. Surah Grumet — author of “Mindful Aging” — joins Dr. Ethan Levine to talk about what it really means to grow older in America. Dr. Grumet draws on 20+ years of family medicine and geriatric care to cover:

• Why dignity, not age-reversal, is the real goal of mindful aging
• How to start a conversation with a parent about memory loss or cognitive decline — without triggering defensiveness
• Navigating driving safety concerns and other tough independence conversations
• The critical difference between a power of attorney and a durable power...

Tim McDonald sits down with Rob, Mukund, and Dr. Levine to unpack his 2020 diagnosis, the oncologist he fired mid-treatment, and the 14-month search for his own liver donor. He shares the "ego script" technique that carried him through the emotional rollercoaster, how COVID complicated his care, why he distinguishes volunteers from advocates, and how the diagnosis reshaped his marriage and his bucket list. 

Tim is a Fight Colorectal Cancer ambassador, Man Up to Cancer member, and author of "From Patient to Advocate." This conversation covers mindset, caregiver communication, and turning a cancer diagnosis into a lifelong advocacy mission.

AI isn't just changing how we work—it's hollowing out the middle.

In this episode, Rob sits down with Pam Mandel, host of the Canned podcast, to talk about what's actually happening on the ground: the white-collar workers who've been out of work for 18 months, the job seekers drowning in fake AI-generated applications, the screenwriters who trained the machine that replaced them—twice. They dig into the psychological weight of job loss when your identity is fused to your work, why managers are failing their teams, and what solidarity between workers might actually look like.

No econ...

In this episode of the Mental Wealth Podcast, clinical psychologist Dr. Ethan Levine joins host Rob to explore the psychology of resilience in an age of constant change. From information overload and AI in the workplace to remote work isolation and the fear of failure, Dr. Levine offers science-backed insights and practical strategies to help you think more clearly, adapt more confidently, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Whether you're a leader navigating organizational change or simply trying to keep up with the pace of modern life, this conversation is packed with tools you can use starting today.<...

Ever feel like you're not good enough, no matter what you accomplish? You're not alone.

In this episode, we sit down with therapist, educator, and author Diane Lang to explore the thought patterns that quietly undermine our confidence and what we can do to change them. Diane, author of "Worthy," shares insights on:
The difference between perfectionism and excellence, and why striving for perfection sets us up for failureHow a growth mindset and the power of "yet" can transform our approach to challengesPractical mindfulness techniques that take just 2-3 minutes but can reset your entire dayWhy over-apologizing...

Feeling overwhelmed by decisions? You're not alone. In this episode, we welcome back Emily Papps from RemakeTheRules.com to discuss "choice inflation" - a term she's coined to describe the modern phenomenon of having exponentially more choices to make AND vastly more information to process for each decision.

Emily breaks down the "cycle of exhaustion" that traps so many of us: uncertainty leads us to create information management tools, but those tools actually create choice inflation, leading to information overload, then decision fatigue, and ultimately back to uncertainty - without resolving any of our original discomfort.

...

This complement episode continues the disucssions in previous episode 35. Here Dr. Levine answers questions on common work-place related issues, providing practical advice that is aimed to reduce stress and help you make meaningful changes to improve your mental health.

Previous episode: https://mentalwealthpod.com/episode-35-whats-really-happening-to-our-mental-health-at-work

DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information presented here is for general information and entertainment purposes only. The "Mental Wealth Podcast" and "Pedal My Way" names and all forms an...

In this essential episode, we dive deep into the mental health challenges facing today's workforce. From the anxiety that creeps in during Monday morning meetings to the burnout that builds over months of overwhelming demands, workplace stress has become a defining issue of our time.

We speak with Dr. Ethan Levine to explore the psychological toll of return-to-office mandates, examine why work-life balance feels more elusive than ever, and discuss practical strategies for protecting your mental health while advancing your career. Whether you're struggling with impostor syndrome, dealing with toxic workplace dynamics, or simply trying to find breathing...

In this candid and insightful episode, we sit down with Pam and Amy from the Canned Podcast to explore one of the most challenging professional experiences many of us will face: getting fired. Far from just another career setback, losing a job can trigger a complex web of emotions, self-doubt, and uncertainty about the future.

Pam and Amy bring their expertise and personal experiences to discuss the often-overlooked psychological impact of termination. They dive deep into the mental health aspects of job loss, from the initial shock and shame to the longer-term effects on self-esteem and identity. The...

In this episode, we’re talking about something we don’t often hear enough about—the emotional aftermath of disaster. When hurricanes, fires, or other large-scale emergencies strike, the physical damage is easy to see—but the mental and emotional toll is just as real, and often much harder to navigate.

Joining us today is Dr. Tom Hlenski, a dedicated leader in the American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health program, based in Long Island, New York. With years of experience supporting individuals and communities through unimaginable moments, Dr. Hlenski offers a deep look into how disaster affects mental health—a...

In today’s episode, we’re diving into choice tech — not just the tools businesses use, but how they choose them. Because in a world filled with platforms that promise to boost productivity, streamline collaboration, and automate the busywork, what often gets overlooked is the bigger picture: the long-term impact of those choices on your team, your culture, and your bottom line.

And sometimes, the tools meant to help… end up doing more harm than good.

To unpack all of this, I’m joined by Emily Pabst, founder of RemakeTheRules.com. Emily works with organizations to rethink th...

Joining us once again for this thought-provoking conversation is Emily Pabst, the founder of Remake the Rules. Emily is able to bringing a human-centered lens to the way we approach modern systems.

In this episode, Emily helps us explore the profound impact of data on our lives, the overwhelming flood of information we face daily, and how this overload affects our ability to make clear, grounded decisions. Emily also shares critical insights on the growing role of AI, the risks of outsourcing decision-making to machines, and the importance of slowing down to evaluate situations with intention and awareness.<...

In this episode we're exploring a topic that's reshaping the way we connect and build relationships — the intersection of social media and dating.Joining me for this insightful discussion is Emily Pabst, the brilliant mind behind Remake the Rules. Emily talks about how dating has shifted from in-person interactions to online platforms, the impact of dating apps, and how the overwhelming number of options can sometimes make it harder for people to make decisions about who to date. Emily will share practical tips for navigating dating apps, setting boundaries in a hyper-connected world, and building meaningful relationships that go beyond th...

Why do children behave the way they do? In this episode of Mental Wealth Podcast, we are joined by Hidayat Shah, who is the Founder & Clinical Director of Eden Behavioral Health. Hidayat helps us dive into the fascinating world of child psychology to uncover the reasons behind common behaviors — from temper tantrums to social withdrawal — and what they reveal about a child’s emotional and cognitive development. We explore how a child’s brain processes emotions, how their environment shapes their reactions, and why certain behaviors may seem irrational but are actually part of their growth. Most importantly, we provide practica...

In this episode, we tackle two deeply connected topics: the state of healthcare in the United States and the emotional toll it can take on individuals navigating the system. From the complexities of accessing care to the financial and emotional burdens faced by millions, we explore the ways healthcare impacts mental health. We also dive into strategies for dealing with negative emotions, whether they stem from personal struggles, systemic challenges, or daily stressors.

Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or someone seeking emotional balance in tough times, this episode offers insights and support.


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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Scott Saslow, who shares his journey of discovering identity, purpose, and happiness in the face of life’s toughest challenges. Scott, a graphic artist, shares his deeply personal experiences of navigating adversity, revealing how those moments shaped his sense of self and led him to a more fulfilling, purpose-driven life.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and actionable insights, Scott discusses the power of vulnerability, the importance of self-compassion, and how to transform setbacks into stepping stones toward growth. Whether you're facing personal struggles or looking for tools to thrive during difficult times, th...

In this episode, we delve into the results of the 2024 presidential election and unpack its immediate impacts on the political landscape. From contentious debates to the shifting priorities of governance, we explore the changes shaping America's future. How are citizens and leaders responding? What does this mean for you, your community, and the nation as a whole?

Join us as we analyze expert insights, discuss strategies for navigating the political and social ripple effects, and offer practical advice on staying informed and engaged in the months to come. Whether you're a seasoned politico or simply concerned about the...

In this episode, Rob and Mukund talk about the US Presidential Election, how the high-stakes nature of elections impacts mental health and stirs national anxiety, and we discuss the emotional weight, coping strategies, and broader societal implications of the race to the White House. Also sharing updates on Mental Wealth Podcast's journey this past year, and our plans for next year. 


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The mat...

In this episode, Rob and Mukund talk about the complexities of Alzheimer's, cognitive decline, aging, and their impact on leadership. Join us as we discuss these with Dr. Ethan Levine, a leading psychologist and expert in the field, as he provides insights into drug development, the potential causes of alzheimers, and how aging affects decision making.

Tune in to discover how embracing a deeper understanding of cognitive health can empower leaders to better navigate the aging process and foster more compassionate, inclusive environments for all. Join us as we explore the intersection of neuroscience, aging, and leadership, and...

In this episode, Rob and I talk to Dr. Ethan Levine, who is the clinical leader of psychotherapy at Eventus Wholehealth.

Join us as we explore what behavioral health is, how to manage stress, anxiety, and have a more balanced mental health.

Video podcast here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rE1MEpT6EY

Eventus' educational podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/full-circle/id1702075102


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do...

In this episode, Rob and I talk to Jake Herway to discuss what leadership is, and how to have a fulfilling career. 

Join us as we explore the essential qualities of effective leadership, including communication, decision-making, and adaptability. We'll discuss strategies for building strong teams, fostering a positive work culture, and achieving a healthy work-life balance.

Tune in for engaging conversations, actionable advice, and real-world anecdotes on how to overcome career challenges, embrace opportunities, and foster personal and professional growth. By integrating the wisdom of experienced leaders into your own journey, you can cultivate a fulfilling c...

In this episode, Rob and I discuss what inspires us. 

Join us as we explore the power of purpose, the impact of role models, and the role of curiosity in fueling our aspirations, and resilience in sustaining inspiration through life's challenges.

Tune in for heartfelt discussions, thought-provoking insights, and practical tips on how to uncover your own sources of inspiration and harness them to achieve your goals. By discovering what ignites the spark within us, we can illuminate our paths toward personal growth, meaningful connections, and a more inspired world.


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Join us as we explore the importance of embracing failure, developing resilience, and using your mistake to build a stong mindset. We'll discuss practical strategies for analyzing mistakes, extracting wisdom from them, and applying these insights to fuel personal and professional growth.

By learning from our mistakes and the experiences of others, we can empower ourselves to achieve our goals and lead more fulfilling lives.



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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or...

In this episode, Rob and I discuss how you can trick your mind into embracing fitness and making it a sustainable part of your lifestyle. 

Have you ever found yourself struggling with motivation or lacking the mental drive to stick to your workout routine? Well, you're not alone. Today, we'll uncover some psychological hacks and practical tips to help you overcome mental barriers and transform your mindset towards fitness. 

Get ready to unlock the power of your mind and discover how it can become your ultimate ally on your fitness journey. Let's dive in!

In this episode, Rob and I dive into the world of positive thinking—what it is, why it matters, and most importantly, how you can harness its power to transform your life for the better.

If you've ever found yourself feeling stuck in negative thought patterns or wanting to attract more positivity and abundance into your life, this episode is for you. Our goal today is to help you understand the immense benefits of positive thinking and equip you with practical strategies to foster a more optimistic mindset.


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In this episode, Rob and I talk about the contentment. What is contentment? How to identify contenment? Listen in to see how can you achieve happiness through contentment. This is part of our focus on mental health and how to achieve happiness and a happy mental state.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information presented here is for general information and entertainment purposes only. The "Me...

In this episode, Rob and I talk about the impact of technology and the social isolation because of certain new gadgets and tools. We talk about the slow emergence of VR/ AR with the Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest VR headsets. We propose people don't rely on these gadgets, and still connect with others in person as that forms the basis for good mental health and happiness.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or...

In this episode, Rob and I talk about the personal challenges - physical and mental - we went through. We also discuss what we did to address these challenges, and how we would approach issues going forward. Listen in to hear if we discuss something similar you are facing currently, or might have faced in the past.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information presented he...

In this episode, Rob and I talk about the social structure and support we have. A simple text message or phone call can make all the difference in our friends' life. This is something frequently overlooked. We talk about our experience in building this support structure, and provide some tips to help you reach out to others in your life.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material an...

Have you ever felt lost in your journey to self-discovery, unsure of who you are or how to find true fulfillment in liffe? In this episode, Rob and I going to help you navigate these challenges and find the answers you've been searching for - what it means to be you. Who are you? What defines you? Some dont have it figured out, and that is OK. We talk about our experience in pesonal identity, and how our environment and social structure defines who we are, and how we can define ourselves, understand our identity and uncover the keys to...

In this episode, Rob and I talk about the anxiety about the unknown. Anything from what happens when you go to the bank, to waiting for an email, the fear of uncertainty and how to deal with unknown in everyday life. We share our experience and what we do to handle the unknown.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information presented here is for general in...

In this episode, Rob and I talk take up the topic of mental stress relating to finances - fear of losing a job, stress of an emergency spend, and overall financial anxiety. Everyone goes through financial stress of some form. We share our experience and what we do to mitigate stress and how we prepare for any surprises.


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DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information pr...

In this episode, Rob and I talk about the mental issues men face - fear, stress, and anxiety. We are all born with these emotions as a way to cope with life, but trying to meet artificial societal norms are beginning to have a detrimental effect on men's mental state. We discuss our expereinces dealing with stressful and anxious situations, with the hope that men see it as normal and nothring to be ashamed or afraid about.


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In this episode, Rob and I talk about barriers to motivation. What roadblocks can exist for someone preventing them from working out. We share some ideas on how we motivate ourselves, and how to address external factors and internal mindset to overcome these obstacles.

DISCLAIMER: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not constitute legal, medical, or other forms of professional advice. The material and information presented here is for general information and entertainment purposes only. The "Pedal My Way" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner an...

We've all been there—struggling to find the drive to hit the gym, feeling like we're stuck in a rut, or losing sight of why we started our fitness journey in the first place. In this episode, Rob and I are going to delve into the world of workout motivation and discover practical strategies to keep you fired up and focused on your path to success.in team and indivifual sports. A fun and interesting look into what keeps us going and how one can get into the zone for their overall health and wellness. We share what we do to...