Wisconsin Wellness
đď¸ Wisconsin Wellness Podcast With Laurie Groh, MS, LPC, Therapist + Wellness Guide What if feeling better didnât mean doing moreâbut doing what matters? The Wisconsin Wellness Podcast is your weekly breath of fresh airâoffering grounded advice, real conversations, and compassionate tools to help you care for your mind, body, and life. Hosted by therapist and business owner Laurie Groh, this show is for busy professionals who crave wellness but struggle to make it stick. Each episode blends insight with honesty, humor with heart. From boundaries and burnout to sleep, relationships, midlife shifts, and mindset resetsâyouâll get practical suppo...
55 | Weighted Blankets, Nervous-Systems & Finding Safety in a Busy World

In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, Laurie Groh talks with Elizabeth Grojean, founder of Baloo Living, about the science and story behind her ethical weighted blanket brand. Elizabeth shares how a leap of faith to Bali turned into a thriving businessâand how slowing down can lead to deep transformation. You'll also hear:
Why deep pressure touch helps regulate your nervous system How weighted blankets improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and even help during trauma work The importance of listening to your body over your inner critic How stress isn't always badâit can fuel purpose Why...54 | Dad Mode Activated: Mental Health Tools for Fatherhood

Guest: Bradley Brown, MS, LPC-IT â Therapist at Shoreside Therapies
Host: Laurie Groh, MS, LPC â Shoreside Therapies
Description:
In this special Fatherâs Day episode, Laurie sits down with Shoreside Therapiesâ Bradley Brown to talk about the evolving mental health needs of dads. From identity shifts to emotional modeling and burnout, this conversation is packed with honest insights and practical tools. Whether you're a dad, partner, or someone supporting one, you'll leave with ideas for reflection, connection, and real growth.
What We Cover:
The invisible load of fatherhoodWhy âdad guiltâ is realâand...
53 | Aging with a Sharp Mind: What Neuropsychology Teaches Us

In this eye-opening conversation, Laurie Groh is joined by Shoreside Therapiesâ Victoria Hagan to explore how small daily choices can make a big impact on our brain health. From forgetting why you walked into a room to boosting memory and clarity as you age, this episode breaks down the science and gives you actionable tools. Learn about the five key pillars of cognitive wellnessânutrition, exercise, sleep, social engagement, and stress reductionâand how these changes can reduce your risk of dementia by up to 40%! Plus, Victoria shares insights from the fascinating Nun Study and leads us through a calming box-breathing practice.
Why You Should Listen:
Understand the difference between norm...52 | Re-release: Beyond the Five Stages of Grief with Julianne Manske Rollefson

No waitlists. No jumping through hoops. Just real therapy, when you need it. Explore our services and meet your match today.
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This podcast explores the significance of grief education and the Grief Mentor Method with guest Julianne Manske Rollefson, a grief educator and podcast host. Listen as Laurie and Julianne discuss the universal experience of grief, the necessity of acknowledging an...
51 | The Power of CBT: Stop the Spiral & Shift Your Thoughts

Set up a free 15-minute consult today! Now offering video counseling. Click the link to set up a time that works for you.
â https://shoreside.mytheranest.com/appointments/newâ
đŻ Why You Should Listen:
Are your thoughts running the show? In this episode, Laurie Groh breaks down how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify thought traps, challenge spirals, and reframe your inner dialogue. If you struggle with overthinking, labeling, or feeling like your emotions run your lifeâthis oneâs for you.
đĄ Key Takeaways:
Youâre not you...
52| How to Feel Safe in Your Own Body (Again): How Weighted Blankets Can Help

In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie Groh speaks with Elizabeth Grojean, founder of Baloo Living, about the importance of slowing down for creativity and health.
Elizabeth shares her personal journey of leaving a corporate job to find purpose and fulfillment, leading to the creation of her company that specializes in weighted blankets. They discuss the science behind weighted blankets, their benefits for sleep and mental health, and the importance of creating a calming environment. The conversation also touches on the impact of sleep on overall well-being and the role of weighted blankets in...
51 | The Power of CBT: Stop the Spiral & Shift Your Thoughts

Set up a free 15-minute consult today! Now offering video counseling. Click the link to set up a time that works for you.
https://shoreside.mytheranest.com/appointments/new
đŻ Why You Should Listen:
Are your thoughts running the show? In this episode, Laurie Groh breaks down how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify thought traps, challenge spirals, and reframe your inner dialogue. If you struggle with overthinking, labeling, or feeling like your emotions run your lifeâthis oneâs for you.
đĄ Key Takeaways:
Youâre not...
50 | Boundary Basics: How to Overcome Guilt and Maintain Your Boundaries Pt. 2

You know what healthy boundaries look like, but how do you actually set them? Part one of our Boundaries Workshop was all about awareness, but this episode will help you take action.
Laurie further explores why boundary-setting can feel so difficult and how we can avoid the exhaustion, resentment, and overwhelm that builds when boundaries aren't honored â by you or others. You'll walk away with tools and strategies to overcome the guilt of saying "no," shift your mindset, and manage your emotions as you practice boundary work.
Tune in to walk through our Healthy Boundaries Ch...
49 | Boundary Basics: Signs You Need Stronger Boundaries Pt. 1

Does saying no feel impossible? Are you constantly overwhelmed by everyone's demands? Afraid to disappoint others? These are signs of poor boundaries.
Listen to this live workshop as we explore why boundaries are so much more than just saying ânoâ â with real-life examples and insights to help you understand what healthy boundaries really look like.
We dive into the difference between automatic and conscious boundaries, when boundaries should be flexible, and the reasons why so many people struggle to set the right boundaries. Youâll learn how to spot the signs of poor boundaries in your own...
48 | Boys Donât Cry: How to Unlearn Emotional Suppression and Find Connection w/ Jason Lange NEW

We grew up hearing "boys don't cry," but more men are choosing emotional connection â and itâs changing everything. In this episode, menâs group facilitator Jason Lange explains how these spaces help men unlearn emotional suppression and give themselves permission to be vulnerable and simply feel.
We explore how our culture has shaped men's emotional experience, the impact emotional detachment has on the body and relationships, and what healthy masculinity actually looks like. Join us to learn how men are finding healing through presence, connection, and support!
Topics discussed in this episod...
47 | Navigating Wellness with Annie Delre: Building Confidence and Setting Boundaries

Your poor time management might really be a boundary issue in disguise. In this episode, we dive into all things boundaries with health and wellness coach Annie Delre. From saying ânoâ at work to reducing screen time at home, Annie shares practical strategies to help you reclaim your time and find relief from burnout and digital overwhelm.
Youâll learn how to stop wasting time on your devices, increase productivity, and build the confidence to set boundaries â even when it feels uncomfortable. Tune in for easy tips you can put into action right away!
To...
46 | Sex on a Plate: Aphrodisiac Insights with Amy Reiley

Feeling sexy starts with feeling good â mind, body, and plate. Amy Reiley, food expert and author of Eat Something Sexy, takes a playful, practical approach to how food affects mood, libido, and sexual performance.
In this episode, she breaks down the science behind aphrodisiac foods, what foods boost energy and heighten desire, and the differences between menâs and women's sexual health. From everyday habits to creating âpeak love experiences,â Amy offers simple, flirty strategies to feel more confident and more connected with your partner. Tune in to learn why food is the secret ingredient to a great se...
45 | Redefining Stress and Pressure Through Performance Psychology w/ Dr. Brian Hite

Stress and pressure arenât as unavoidable as you think. According to Dr. Brian Hite, performance psychologist, stuntman and resilience coach, the key to thriving in high-stakes situations is already in your control â and easier to tap into than you realize.
In this episode, we explore the science of resilience and challenge the idea that stress and pressure are essential for peak performance. Dr. Brian explains the difference between stress and pressure, why long-term change is hard to achieve, and how a simple mindset shift can transform the way you handle stress. Join us for a deep dive...
44 | Immediate Steps for Peace: Mastering News and Social Media Boundaries

Between social media, the news, and constant notifications, our brains are on information overload 24/7. Itâs no wonder so many of us feel scattered, stressed, and overwhelmed, but there are simple ways to stay connected without feeling drained.
In this episode, the Shoreside Therapies team shares actionable strategies to manage your digital intake and prioritize your well-being. Learn how to set boundaries without guilt, balance advocacy with the need to stay informed, and stop doomscrolling. Tune in and start creating a healthier relationship with social media!
Topics discussed in this episode:
...
43 | How to Find Happiness Through Lifeâs Hardest Times w/ Ray Martin

If you had to rebuild your life from scratch, where would you start? After a series of unexpected losses and major life changes, Ray Martin found himself at a crossroads questioning everything he believed about success and happiness. What began as a short sabbatical abroad turned into a 14-year journey of self-discovery and personal growth â one that taught him powerful lessons he shares in this episode.
Ray outlines the guiding principles that helped him start living his authentic life, his six rules for happiness, and what his experiences have taught him about mindfulness and uncertainty. Whether they co...
42 | Beyond Sleeping Pills: Holistic Strategies for Better Sleep with Morgan Adams

Why do men sleep better than women? Is falling asleep quickly actually a sign of a problem? How can you break the cycle of revenge bedtime procrastination?
Find out today as I speak to holistic sleep coach Morgan Adams about why so many of us struggle with sleep and what we can do to fix it â without relying on sleeping pills. We dive into the unique challenges women face, misconceptions that could be making things worse, and three techniques that can make a big difference in your sleep.
Hit play now to learn how to st...
41 | You Canât Get Pinot Grigio from a Pineapple (& Other Lessons in Relationships)

Tired of fighting or feeling resentment? Thereâs a way to resolve conflict without letting your emotions take over. Lindsey Karnick, LCSW, MSW, MA, joins me today to explore why conflicts escalate and the cycle of resentment and defensiveness.
Learn how to manage your expectations, express emotions without making things worse, and most importantly â stop fighting. You'll gain a deeper understanding of your role in conflict and walk away with actionable strategies to break unhealthy patterns and communicate in a way that actually works. Tune in now for Lindseyâs insights that will change the way you approa...
40 | Cannabis and Health: The Power of the Endocannabinoid System w/ Dr. Joseph Rosado

Medical breakthroughs often come from unexpected places. Few are more controversial than cannabis, but the science is hard to ignore. In this episode, Dr. Joseph Rosado unpacks the science behind the endocannabinoid system, its overlooked potential in medicine, and the challenges patients face in accessing medical cannabis.
We also discuss the ground-breaking use of cannabis for Alzheimerâs disease, what most people donât understand about cannabis, and what patients should know before seeking treatment. Join us to learn about the benefits of cannabis in healthcare!
Topics discussed in this episode:
In...
39 | Law and Leadership: How to Build a Supportive Workplace Culture w/ Kyle Kaufman

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Hustle culture is overrated. Real success comes from balance, not burnout, but many leaders are still getting it wrong.
In the high-stress world of law, Kyle Kaufman of Hawley, Kaufman & Kautzer, S.C. understands how the relentless demands of the job impact both performance and well-being â and why leadership needs to change. Today, he shares how heâs transformed his firm to build a healthy, supportive workplace culture.
Tune in for insights on addressing burnout, overcoming organizational pitfalls, and improving team dynamics!
38 | Transforming Stress into Positivity with Phil Barth

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Gratitude has the power to reframe how you see the world. But how do you start? This episode with Phil Barth, author ofGreat Things Happen Every Day, will help you take small steps toward gratitude that lead to big shifts in your mental health.
He shares tips for managing stress and conflict, blocking out negativity, and making gratitude part of your daily routine. Discover how practicing gratitude can reduce stress, improve relationships, and bring more joy to your life!
Topics discussed in...
37 | 4-Step Framework for Personal Growth and Fulfillment w/ Emmett Kilduff

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Whenâs the last time you gave yourself permission to slow down? For Emmett Kilduff, founder of Pitstop, it was a major health scare that inspired him to leave behind a demanding career and build a life rooted in purpose and well-being. In this episode, we explore how Pitstop harnesses the power of intentional pauses to help men break free from societal expectations and focus on what really matters.
Our discussion highlights the cultural barriers that make it difficult for men to be vulnerable, the importance...
36 | Ambiguous Loss Unwrapped: Emotional Health During the Holiday Season

Shoreside Therapies:
Book aâ â â â â â free 15-minute consultationâ â â â â â online and get into mental health therapy within a week!
In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie Groh welcomes therapistKristen Holmes fromShoreside Therapy to discuss the concept of ambiguous loss and its impact during the holiday season.
They delve into the types of ambiguous loss, such as psychological presence with physical absence and vice versa, and provide examples to help listeners identify their own experiences. The conversation also touches on how various age groups, including children and adults, react differently to these feelings and share strategies for...
RE-RELEASE: Reimagining Productivity with Joe Sanok: The Four-Day Workweek and Slowing Down

Boost Productivity & Unleash Creativity by Doing Less In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie Groh welcomes special guest Joe Sanok, podcast host of 'Practice of the Practice,' and author of 'Thursday is the New Friday.'
Joe discusses the importance of slowing down to enhance productivity, the concept of a four-day workweek, and balancing work-life priorities. They explore how historical work schedules evolved, the benefits of a 32-hour workweek, and practical tips for both entrepreneurs and everyday individuals to incorporate rest and creativity into their routines. Joe also shares insights...
35 | The Therapistâs Tale: Navigating Characters and Clients with Susan Beth Miller

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In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Lori Groh speaks with clinical psychologist and author Susan Beth Miller about her journey from psychology to writing fiction. They explore the connections between therapy and storytelling, the development of characters, and the transformation that occurs both in therapy and in writing. Susan shares insights on creating unlikable characters and the importance of understanding the humanity behind their actions. The conversation highlights the parallels between being a therapist and a writer, emphasizing the need for receptivity and curiosity i...
34 | Revolutionizing Love: AI Matchmaking

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In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie welcomes Eric McHugh, a digital entrepreneur and President of ShopX and Dataing.io. Eric delves into his background, hobbies, and his transformative experience at a Vipassana meditation retreat. The discussion pivots towards his innovative dating app, Dataing.io, which uses AI to create authentic connections. Eric addresses common issues with traditional dating apps and explains how his platform aims to solve them by generating matches based on users' digital footprints and ensuring a safer, more effective dating ex...
33 | Midlife Empowerment: Wellness, Strength, and Vibrant Living for Women Over 40

In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, hostLaurie Groh invites certified health and lifestyle coachKaren Viesta to explore the transformative journey of midlife for women. The conversation centers on reimagining midlife as a period of empowerment and freedom, combining wellness and elegance ('Wellegant') to create extraordinary health and vitality. They discuss societal pressures, the importance of simplifying life, and embracing midlife changes positively.
The episode highlights the critical role of community, good nutrition, and essential supplements such as multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Strength training's benefits for preserving muscle mass and bone density are also underscored...
32 | Bridging Wellness and Technology Insights from Be OnÂŽWellness Platform

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In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, the host welcomes Andrew Ronquetto, owner of a digital wellness platform called Bridging Wellness and Technology: Insights from BE ON Platform. The conversation explores BEYOND's capabilities to enhance the relationships between wellness professionals and clients by providing personalized data management solutions. Ronquetto explains the platform's goal to extend human connections beyond therapy sessions, and its ability to create 'journeys' that consolidate client-practitioner interactions and data points.
The discussion also covers the platform's design focus on user experience, digit...
31 | Managing School Stress and Social Anxiety with Amanda Lo MSW, APSW, LCSW DSPS

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In this episode,Laurie Groh and therapistAmanda Lo discuss school stress, social anxiety, and imposter syndrome. She explains that stress is a physical or mental response to external events or stimuli, and it can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Amanda provides tips for managing stress, including prioritizing diet, sleep, and physical activity, engaging in fun activities, journaling and self-reflection, and practicing mindfulness. She also addresses social anxiety and suggests strategies such as role-playing, positive self-talk, and initiating conversations.
Lastly, Amanda discusses imposter syndrome and...
30 | Raising Resilient Kids in a Digital World: A Conversation with Lauri Budzynski MA, LPC, NCC

Shoreside Therapies:
Book aâ â â â â â free 15-minute consultationâ â â â â â online and get into mental health therapy within a week!
In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast,Lauri Budzynski MA, LPC, NCC, a child specialist from Shoreside Therapies, joinsLaurie Grohto discuss Jonathan Haidt's book 'The Anxious Generation.' The podcast delves into the effects of smartphones on Gen Z, highlighting the increase in anxiety, self-harm, and communication issues among young people since the proliferation of smartphones in 2010. They emphasize the importance of play, face-to-face interactions, and setting boundaries on phone usage to foster mental health and social development. They also t...
29 | The Science and Benefits of Red Light Therapy: An Interview with John Graham Harper

Laurie Groh speaks with John Graham Harper shares his journey into red light therapy, starting from his experiences as a competitive athlete in rugby, crossfit, and amateur boxing. He battled injuries, including a tumor in his head, which led him to discover the healing potential of red light therapy. With a background in entrepreneurship, John shifted his focus to recovery, wellness, and founded Lumaflex. He emphasizes the transformative power of light therapy and encourages exploring non-invasive treatments before considering more invasive options. In this conversation, John Graham Harper discusses the importance of self-awareness and managing competitiveness. He also explains...
28 | Navigating Financial Challenges in Divorce: Expert Advice from Rhonda Noordyk

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Rhonda Noordyk, founder and CEO of the Women's Financial Wellness Center, discusses the complexities of divorce and the importance of financial advocacy for women. She emphasizes the need for women to ask better questions and be prepared when navigating the financial aspects of divorce.
Rhonda explains that Wisconsin, despite being a marital property state, still requires careful consideration of property division and support calculations. She also highlights the importance of transparency in financial disclosure and the potential consequences of not fully understanding the value of...
25 | Psychedelic Healing: MDMA for Trauma Recovery with Jill Sitnick

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Jill Sitnick shares her personal journey with MDMA therapy for PTSD and how it helped her heal from childhood trauma. She explains the process of MDMA therapy, which involves preparation, the therapeutic journey, and integration. The therapy allows individuals to reframe traumatic memories and calm their nervous system, leading to healing and a reduction in PTSD symptoms.Â
Jill emphasizes the importance of safety, intentions, and setting in the therapy process. She also highlights the need for repetition and ongoing integration practices to solidify the heal...
25 | Creating Sleep Lists: A Tool for Insomnia with Helen Sernett

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Helen Sernett, founder of theSleep List Podcast, shares her journey of struggling with insomnia and how she created a podcast to help herself and others fall asleep.
She offers a variety of sleep lists, ranging from numbers to the periodic table to presidents of the United States, to provide a soothing and boring experience that helps calm the mind. Helen emphasizes the importance of sleep for overall well-being and how it can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance cognitive abilities...
24 | Reiki and Grief: Creating Safe Spaces for Healing and Hope with Linda Magnuson

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In this conversation, Linda Magnuson andLaurie Groh MS LPC SASdiscuss how Reiki can help with grief. They explore the concept of energy and how Reiki works to move stagnant or negative energy in the body.
Linda explains that Reiki provides a safe space for healing and relaxation, allowing clients to process their emotions. She also mentions that Reiki can help clients gain clarity of mind and have aha moments about their grief.
The conversation highlights the importance of creating a nurturing environ...
23 | Beyond the Five Stages of Grief with Julianne Manske Rollefson

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This podcast explores the significance of grief education and the Grief Mentor Method with guest Julianne Manske Rollefson, a grief educator and podcast host. Listen as Laurie and Julianne discuss the universal experience of grief, the necessity of acknowledging and processing it in various life changes, and the role of rituals in coping with losses like death, divorce, or job loss. Rollefson introduces a holistic approach to grieving, emphasizing mindfulness, energy management, nourishment, outdoor activities, and the importance of incorporating rituals and rest in navigating grief...
22 | End of Life Care: Insights from Death Doula Kathleen Mack

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In this episode,Laurie Groh MS LPC SASKathleen Mack, MSW, LCSW,a therapist andDeath Doula discusses the role of a death doula and the services they provide for individuals facing terminal illness. She explains that a death doula is an objective person who advocates for the needs of the terminally ill individual, creating a safe space for them to express their wishes and feelings. Kathleen highlights the importance of a death doula in facilitating conversations and processing unresolved issues, as well as assisting with legacy projects and vigil...
21 | The Power of Intuition in Decision-Making with Megan Anderson LPC

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In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie Grow interviews Megan Anderson, the founder of Therapist and a Couch. Megan shares her journey of becoming a therapist and her passion for approaching therapy from an existential and humanistic perspective. They discuss the importance of slowing down and paying attention to our intuition, distinguishing it from fear and instinct. Megan emphasizes the need to deeply know ourselves and trust our intuition, even when it feels uncomfortable. They also touch on the role of intuition in the...
20 | From Burnout to Balance: Rediscovering Your Purpose with Rebecca Claeys

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In this episode, host Laurie Groh interviews Rebecca Claeys about burnout and how individuals are feeling increasingly drained. Rebecca shares her perspective on burnout and introduces the concept of the Soul Alchemy Cycle, a framework she developed to work out of burnout and prevent its recurrence. They discuss the societal pressure to tie personal worth to productivity and the challenges of breaking free from this mindset. Rebecca emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's purpose and shifting the focus from doing to being. They also touch on the broader i...
19 | Navigating Life and Work with Soft Skills Power with Paula Kramer

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In this episode of the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast, host Laurie Groh MS LPC SAS interviews Paula Kramer, a woman who turned her traumatic childhood experiences into a platform for teaching others about resilience and soft skill power strategies. Having survived two murder attempts by her mentally unstable mother and living through a tumultuous family life, Paula shares how these adversities led her to develop soft skills for positive control in various aspects of life. She speaks about her therapeutic journey to acknowledge and heal from her pas...
18 | Investing in Employee Well-being with Andrew Nett

In this conversation,Laurie Groh and Andrew Nett discuss the importance of destigmatizing mental health and the role of mental health services in the workplace. Andrew Nett, a licensed clinical social worker, shares his experience providing mental health services to employees at Delta Defense.
They discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding seeking mental health treatment, the benefits of normalizing mental well-being, and the power of therapies like EMDR. They also explore ways to decrease the stigma around mental health, such as offering lunch and learns and group sessions in the workplace. Overall, the conversation highlights the need...