Behavioral Health Today

BHT Bytes: Navigating Post-Presidential Election with Curiosity & Compassion – Episode 358

Polarization is not inevitable—it’s a tactic. The real challenge is learning to listen, seek understanding, and embrace the opportunity for growth that comes from different perspectives. In the first episode of BHT Bytes, hosts Dr. Graham Taylor and Sharlee Dixon explore how polarization is often a tactic designed to divide us, and how we can break free from it by focusing on understanding, listening, and growth. In this quick and digestible episode, we reflect on the political division post-election and discuss how we can approach the new year with a grounded, intentional mindset. Instead of reacting with frustration, we explore how to take control of what we can—starting with how we listen, understand, and make a meaningful impact in our local communities. Join us as we shift from division to agency and focus on creating positive change, one conversation at a time.

The Hopeless Generation, Pt. 2: Rebuilding Connection & Resilience in a Disconnected World with Dr. Henry Venter – Episode 357

Today’s youth face a convergence of challenges: delayed milestones, societal pressures, and a deepening crisis of meaning and purpose. Yet, resilience may hold the key to navigating these turbulent waters. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor welcomes back Dr. Henry Venter, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of psychology with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice and education. Dr. Venter’s research delves into the growing mental health challenges faced by young adults, with a focus on rising loneliness and the critical role of meaning and purpose in fostering happiness and fulfillment. Drawing from a holistic therapeutic approach that blends client-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and psychodynamic principles, Dr. Venter brings invaluable insights to this conversation. You can explore more of his work on his YouTube channel, @Restart. Join us as we unpack Dr. Venter’s findings on the loneliness epidemic, the rise of the 'Giving Up Generation,' and what can be done to turn the tide.

For more information about Dr. Henry Venter at National University and his various publications, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/degrees/social-sciences/faculty/dr-henry-venter/

For more information about Restart YouTube Channel, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@restartafterfailure

To contact Dr. Henry Venter, please email at: henryjventer@gmail.com

Connect with Dr. Venter on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhenryventer

Co-Pilots of Progress: Rethinking AI’s Role in Our Future with Ravi Bapna – Episode 356

From personalized learning tutors to real-time health insights, AI is revolutionizing how we live, work, and connect—not as a dystopian threat, but as a co-pilot for human progress. In this episode, Sharlee Dixonis joined by Ravi Bapna, chair of Business Analytics and Information Systems at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management and author of “Thrive: Maximizing Well-Being in the Age of AI”. An award-winning scholar, Ravi’s groundbreaking research delves into the transformative impact of AI and machine learning on areas such as online dating, social media, and workforce development. As the founder of the Analytics for Good Institute, he has spent over two decades guiding leaders to leverage digital transformation for societal benefit. Together, we explore how AI is reshaping our daily lives, dispelling common myths, navigating ethical challenges like data privacy, and unlocking its potential to enhance wellness, relationships, and mental health.

For more information about “Thrive: Maximizing Well-Begin in the Age of AI” by Ravi Bapna and Anindya Ghose, please visit: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262049313/thrive/
For more articles and research by Ravi, please visit: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=s420FPYAAAAJ&hl=en

To connect with Ravi, please visit: https://carlsonschool.umn.edu/faculty/ravi-bapna
For more information about the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota and their programs, please visit: https://carlsonschool.umn.edu

Connect with Ravi on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravi-bapna-1249241

Zero Overdose: Turning Awareness Into Action to Save Lives with Dr. Jorge Petit – Episode 355

Every overdose reversed is an opportunity to save a life—and it all begins with awareness, education, and community action. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor is joined by Dr. Jorge Petit, the Strategy and Development Advisor at Zero Overdose, a national non-profit organization committed to preventing overdose deaths. With over 30 years of experience in community and public psychiatry, Dr. Petit has been a champion for vulnerable populations, particularly those impacted by substance use disorders. His extensive career includes founding Quality Healthcare Solutions and serving in leadership roles at Coordinated Behavioral Care and Beacon Health Options. Today, he’ll share insights into overdose risk factors, harm reduction strategies, and how Zero Overdose is shaping the future of overdose prevention policies. We’re thrilled to have him on the show to highlight this critical work.

For more information about Zero Overdose, please visit: https://zerooverdose.org

For more information about upcoming specialist training and safety planning, please visit: https://zerooverdose.org/services/

If you would like to donate to help save lives, please visit: https://zerooverdose.org/give-now/

Connect with Zero Overdose on Instagram at: https://instagram.com/zerooverdose/

Connect with Zero Overdose on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-overdose/

Connect with Zero Overdose on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ZeroOverdoseOrg

Connect with Zero Overdose on X at: https://twitter.com/zerooverdoseorg

The Strength in Vulnerability: How MELD is Redefining Men’s Mental Health with Owen Marcus & Duncan Rich– Episode 354

Redefining Masculinity: It's not about standing alone—it's about connecting deeply with ourselves and each other. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor is joined by Duncan Rich and Owen Marcus from MELD, a men's wellness organization focused on emotional resilience and mental health. Owen, with over 40 years of experience working with men’s groups and somatic programs, develops transformative programs at MELD to help men build emotional intelligence and live fully. He’s also the author of Grow Up: A Man’s Guide to Masculine Emotional Intelligence. Duncan, co-founder and Head of Operations at MELD, brings his expertise in creating meaningful experiences, from retreats to large-scale festivals. Together, Duncan and Owen lead a global movement empowering men to embrace vulnerability, overcome societal pressures, and build deeper connections through MELD’s somatic-based approach, group work, and community healing.

For more information about MELD and their men’s mental health programs, please visit: https://meld.community

For more information about the PRIME Retreat on Feb. 27^th–Mar. 2^nd, please visit: https://app.meld.community/meld-prime-retreat

To schedule a free coaching session with a facilitator, please visit: https://meld.community/schedule-a-call/

Connect with MELD on Instagram at: http://instagram.com/meld.men

Connect with MELD on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meldmenscommunity/

Connect with MELD on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/@MELD-men

Connect with MELD on X at: https://twitter.com/meldmen

Connect with MELD om Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/meldmen

FirstWork’s Approach to Accessible Learning for Special Needs with Patrick Faga – Episode 353

Immediate feedback, personalized learning, and user-friendly tools—FirstWork is transforming the way children with special learning needs thrive. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Patrick Faga, the founder and CEO of FirstWork, a groundbreaking digital application designed to simplify Discrete Trial Training (DTT). With a strong foundation in Behavioral Neuroscience and Behavioral & Decision Sciences, Patrick created FirstWork to provide a structured, customizable digital experience that empowers parents, professionals, and children. Join us as Patrick shares his inspiring journey, the innovative ways FirstWork streamlines DTT, and how its reward-based, customizable features are making learning more effective and accessible for all.

 

For more information about FirstWork App, please visit: https://firstworkapp.com
To download the FirstWork App on the Apple Store, please visit: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/firstwork/id6468642504?mt=8&shortlink=FirstWork&pid=FirstWork&af_xp=custom&source_caller=ui
To download the FirstWork App on the Google Play Store, please visit: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.firstwork.app&hl=en_US&pli=1

Connect with FirstWork App on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/firstworkapp/

How to Navigate the Depths of Seasonal Affective Disorder with Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt – Episode 352

True wellness thrives in the balance of stress, sleep, nutrition, and mindful practices that support the autonomic nervous system. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon sits down with Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt, a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, OCD, and grief. Specializing in the integration of psychology and spiritual growth, Dr. Bajt empowers clients to achieve harmony between mind, body, and spirit. Named a Top Woman in Medicine in 2023 and honored with the Impact Award for her transformative work, Dr. Bajt joins us today to explore Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—how it differs from typical depression, the importance of sunlight and Vitamin D for mental health, and practical strategies for managing SAD.

 

For more information about Dr. Theresa Rose Bajt, please visit: https://drbajt.com/
For more information about “Do One Thing Different: Ten Simple Ways to Change Your Life” by Bill O’Hanlon, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Do-One-Thing-Different-Simple-ebook/dp/B00CKOV8YQ
For more information about “Nutrient Power: Heal Your Biochemistry and Heal Your Brain” by William J. Walsh, PhD, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Nutrient-Power-Heal-Biochemistry-Brain/dp/1620872587

View helpful resources on the American Psychological Association (APA) at: https://www.apa.org
View resources at the National Institute of Health (NIH) at: https://www.nih.gov
View resources or Find a Therapist at Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

View resources at the Mayo Clinic at: https://www.mayoclinic.org

View resources at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at: https://www.nami.org

Mindful Minds: Building Brain Resilience Through Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Sui Wong – Episode 351

Your brain thrives on balance—sleep, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness. Small changes lead to a life well-lived. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Dr. Sui Wong, an award-winning neurologist and neuro-ophthalmologist based in London. Dr. Wong specializes in integrating mindfulness and lifestyle medicine into brain health, blending over 20 years of clinical expertise with cutting-edge neuroscience research. She is passionate about turning science into actionable, person-centered solutions and dedicates her time to volunteering with organizations like the Visual Snow Initiative and IIH UK As the founder of the Brain Health Practice, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to well-being, focusing on balancing the autonomic nervous system and empowering patients to create lasting behavioral change. Today, she shares her journey into neurology and how mindfulness, lifestyle medicine, and practical strategies can transform both brain and body health.

For more information about Dr. Sui Wong and to subscribe to her Thursday Tips, please visit: https://www.drsuiwongmd.com
For more information about “Mindfulness for Brain Health: Neuroscience-Informed Mindfulness in Plain English, Empowering You with Self-Care and Mindfulness Meditation Practices for Clarity, Peace, and Joy” by Dr. Sui H. Wong, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Mindfulness-Brain-Health-Neuroscience-Informed-Empowering/dp/1738558118
For more information about Sui’s other written books, please visit: https://www.drsuiwongmd.com/books
Connect with Dr. Sui Wong on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/drsuiwong.neurologist/
Connect with Dr. Sui Wong on Linkedin at: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dr-sui-wong-neurologist

The Hopeless Generation: Addressing Youth Isolation & Disconnection with Dr. Henry Venter – Episode 350

Young people today are drowning in hopelessness—disconnected, disillusioned, and abandoning love, dreams, and life itself. It’s time to offer a lifeline, not excuses. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor sits down with Dr. Henry Venter, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of psychology with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice and education. Dr. Venter’s research focuses on the growing mental health crisis among young adults, particularly the rise of loneliness and the critical role of meaning and purpose in achieving happiness and fulfillment. Drawing on a holistic therapeutic approach that combines client-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and psychodynamic principles, Dr. Venter offers valuable insights into addressing these challenges. Join us as we discuss his findings on the alarming rise of loneliness and the so-called “Giving Up Generation,” and explore the pathways to hope and reconnection. You can connect with Dr. Venter on his YouTube channel, @Restart.

 

For more information about Dr. Henry Venter at National University and his various publications, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/degrees/social-sciences/faculty/dr-henry-venter/

For more information about Restart YouTube Channel, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@restartafterfailure
To contact Dr. Henry Venter, please email at: henryjventer@gmail.com
Connect with Dr. Venter on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhenryventer

Clinicians Series: Raising Great Listeners Through Empathy & Connection with Christine Miles – Episode 349

Listening isn’t just hearing words—it’s about fostering empathy, connection, and understanding to build stronger relationships. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Christine Miles, a leading expert in transformative listening. Christine, author of What Is It Costing You Not to Listen?: The Power of Understanding to Connect, Influence, Solve & Sell, has dedicated over 25 years to helping individuals, families, and organizations enhance human connection.

With a BS in Psychology from Millersville University and a Master’s in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, Christine is also the Founder and CEO of Equipt, a company that empowers businesses to develop empathy-driven cultures and apply human skills for impactful results. Today, Christine shares why teaching kids to listen is essential, offers practical strategies to cultivate this skill, and provides tools to overcome common challenges and distractions.

 

For more information about The Listening Path, please visit: https://thelisteningpath.com

For more information about “What Is It Costing You To Listen” by Christine Miles, please visit: https://thelisteningpath.com/listening-book/

Connect with The Listening Path on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thelisteningpathsystem
Connect with The Listening Path on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGzP5PyPkrqG7BayFs0kU_g

Connect with The Listening Path on LinkedIn at: http://linkedin.com/company/equipt-the-listening-path/

Inside Casey's Clubhouse: Empowering Kids with Social-Emotional Skills with Laura Doerflinger Schneider – Episode 348

Helping kids thrive with emotional skills for life—Casey’s Clubhouse empowers children through storytelling, creativity, and empathy. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Laura Doerflinger Schneider, LMHC, a seasoned mental health therapist with over 31 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. As the founder of Casey’s Clubhouse, Laura created an engaging animated series for kids ages 6-12, equipping them with essential social-emotional skills like self-regulation, empathy, and problem-solving. Combining her expertise in counseling with innovative tools, Laura’s work inspires growth, resilience, and connection in both therapy and education. Join us as we explore the heart and vision behind Casey’s Clubhouse and its transformative impact on children’s emotional learning.

 

For more information about Casey’s Clubhouse, please visit: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com
For more information about Casey’s Clubhouse curriculum, please visit: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com/curriculum
Free curriculum resources for kids and parents can be found at: https://www.caseys-clubhouse.com/blog
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/caseysclubhouse
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/learnwithcasey/
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@caseysclubhouse
Connect with Casey’s Clubhouse on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4egYXC87lLRxGZvRNkqzZQ

Forgiveness as Medicine: Healing Through Unconditional Love & the Power of the Right Brain with Dara McKinley – Episode 347

Forgiveness is a healing journey fueled by unconditional love—learn to quiet the mind, engage the heart, and free yourself from emotional burdens. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Dara McKinley, a seasoned expert in spirituality and health with over 30 years of experience. Dara's exploration of forgiveness began with a profound personal challenge in 2012, inspiring her to create a practical, structured approach to this often-misunderstood process. By redefining forgiveness and breaking it down into clear, actionable steps, Dara empowers others to find peace and healing where traditional methods fall short. Join us as we dive into Dara’s unique framework, exploring how her personal journey and professional expertise converge to make forgiveness a powerful tool for lasting transformation.

 

For more information about Dara McKinley, please visit: https://daramckinley.com
For more information about the upcoming How To Forgive, a 6-week structured forgiveness course, please visit: https://howtoforgive.com
Connect with Dara on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Dara-McKinley-688402261553989/
Connect with Dara on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/DaraMcKinley/

Habits for Thriving: Unlocking ADHD Strengths in Kids & Teens with Jon Zeitlin – Episode 346

ADHD isn’t a barrier—it’s a blueprint for success. By building habits, playing to strengths, and managing challenges, kids and teens can thrive in school, relationships, and life. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor speaks with Jon Zeitlin. Jon is the co-founder of HabitCoach, the Hallowell Todaro ADHD Center in California, and CoachJon, where he helps teens and adults with ADHD develop executive functioning skills and strategies. A three-time Chief Executive and senior corporate leader, Jon has personally overcome his own executive function challenges and ADHD symptoms, building compensating mechanisms to succeed in both his career and personal life. With degrees from Yale and Stanford, Jon brings a wealth of experience and insight into ADHD coaching, while also being a dedicated father of three, including one child with ADHD. Through HabitCoach, he is passionate about sharing his knowledge and creating effective resources to support kids and teens with ADHD. We’re excited to have Jon with us today to explore the creation of HabitCoach, how it addresses the shortage of ADHD support for kids and parents, the executive function challenges it targets, and the program's unique approach to building lasting habits and integrating parents into the process.

 

For more information about HabitCoach and take a Free Assessment Exam, please visit: https://habitcoach.com
For parenting resources, video training and more, please visit: https://habitcoach.com/parent-training/
Connect with HabitCoach on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/help-habitcoach
Connect with HabitCoach on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/habitcoachef/
Connect with HabitCoach on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561030866578

The Love Habit: Building Healthy Relationships Through Self-Awareness & Boundaries with Rainie Howard – Episode 345

Healthy love begins within. By cultivating self-awareness, setting clear boundaries, and aligning with what energizes you, you open the door to thriving relationships and uncover the habits that create a life of joy and connection. In this episode, Sharlee Dixon speaks with Rainie Howard, a sought-after speaker, bestselling author, media personality, and business leader whose global platform has inspired over 10 million people. Rainie’s book, “The Love Habit: Daily Self-Care Practices for a Happier Life and Healthier Relationships”, empowers readers to transform their lives through spiritual and mental growth while fostering meaningful connections. As the host of The Rainie Howard Show, she inspires audiences with her wisdom and actionable insights. Today, we’re excited to dive into Rainie’s personal journey of self-care, explore her transformative LOVE framework for healthier communication, and discover practical strategies for self-reinvention.

 

For more information about “The Love Habit: Daily Self-Care Practices for a Happier Life and Healthier Relationships” by Rainie Howard, please visit: https://www.broadleafbooks.com/store/product/9781506496740/The-Love-Habit
For more information about Rainie Howard, please visit: https://www.rainiehoward.com
For more information about The Rainie Howard Show podcast, please visit: https://www.rainiehoward.com/podcast
Connect with Rainie on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/rainiehoward/
Connect with Rainie on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Rainie.Howard.Author
Connect with Rainie on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/user/RainieHoward

Reclaiming Energy: Balancing Life, Work, & Connection in a Changing World with Dr. Gregory Charlop – Episode 344

Life isn’t just about productivity—it’s about discovering what energizes and sustains you. By embracing creativity, play, and meaningful connections, we can transform burnout into a call for balance and joy. In this episode, Dr. Graham Taylor welcomes Dr. Gregory Charlop, a distinguished physician, executive coach, and wellness expert. With training at Stanford and UCLA, Dr. Greg has managed complex medical cases in San Francisco and gained unique insights into mental health and nutrition through his work with elite plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills. As the founder of the Physician Wellness Project, he specializes in addressing burnout among healthcare professionals, helping them build healthier work-life relationships and reimagine their careers in the context of longer life spans. Together, they’ll explore how to assess your work-life balance, redefine career priorities, and tap into creative outlets to enhance well-being and fulfillment.

 

For more information about Dr. Gregory Charlop, please visit: https://www.gregorycharlopmd.com
For more information about the Corsica Conference, please visit: https://www.gregorycharlopmd.com/corsica-conference
Connect with Gregory on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregorycharlop/
Connect with Gregory on Twitter/X at: https://x.com/Gcharlopmd
Connect with Gregory on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC2AkiRFf6NDRc3MT0eBLNw