Beyond Theory
Beyond Theory returns for its fourth season to dive even deeper into the historic breakthroughs shaping our understanding of mental health, trauma, and addiction and the extraordinary stories of the people leading the way.
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S6 E13: Dr. Kevin McCauley on a Compassionate View of Addiction
02/16/2024
S6 E13: Dr. Kevin McCauley on a Compassionate View of Addiction
In the season finale of Beyond Theory, we speak with Meadows Senior Fellow Dr. Kevin McCauley about how addiction creates dysfunction in the brain's dopamine-based value/reward system. We also revisit a conversation from last season about fentanyl and the use of CBD.
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S6 E12: Dr. Claudia Black on Healing the Whole Famly
02/09/2024
S6 E12: Dr. Claudia Black on Healing the Whole Famly
In this episode, we sit down with Meadows Senior Fellow Dr. Claudia Black as she explains why chronic, ongoing trauma can be very damaging to a child's development and lead to emotional dysregulation. We also have a conversation about why the power of storytelling can be impactful in conveying the emotional truth of traumatic experiences.
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S6 E11 Dr. Tian Dayton on Experiential Trauma Therapy
02/02/2024
S6 E11 Dr. Tian Dayton on Experiential Trauma Therapy
In this episode, Meadows Senior Fellow Dr. Tian Dayton discusses why role-playing is a core element of psychodrama and how it helps people externalize inner dynamics to see issues from different perspectives. Later, she explains why it's important for therapists to trust the process and remember to be of service to the client.
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S6 E10: Dr. Stefanie Carnes on Compulsive and Addictive Sexual Behavior
01/26/2024
S6 E10: Dr. Stefanie Carnes on Compulsive and Addictive Sexual Behavior
In this episode, MBH Senior Fellow Dr. Stefanie Carnes discusses the controversies surrounding compulsive sexual behavior disorder and its history seeking legitimacy as a diagnosis. She covers the role of complex trauma and attachment issues in driving these behaviors, as well as the need to recognize that women also struggle with compulsive sexuality.
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S6 E9: Sean Walsh on Leadership in Behavioral Health
01/19/2024
S6 E9: Sean Walsh on Leadership in Behavioral Health
In this episode we speak with Meadows Behavioral Healthcare Chief Executive Officer Sean Walsh. Listen in as we discuss how our Senior Fellows impact the care we provide, the process that goes into evaluating expansion efforts, and the importance of recovery coaching.
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S6 E8: Erie Hebert on Resiliency (Part 2)
12/19/2023
S6 E8: Erie Hebert on Resiliency (Part 2)
In this episode, we conclude our conversation with Erie Hebert who shares details of his challenging upbringing and the other hurdles he overcame before taking the helm of The Meadows Outpatient Center-Austin. Throughout his journey, he displayed incredible resilience that provides a powerful example of overcoming adversity. If you need someone to talk to, visit 988lifeline.org for more information.
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S6 E7: Erie Hebert on Resiliency (Part 1)
12/08/2023
S6 E7: Erie Hebert on Resiliency (Part 1)
For the first episode in this two-part discussion, Erie Hebert opens up about his personal experiences overcoming adversity. His story highlights how trauma impacts people in complex ways, and how healing requires connection and can lead to serving others.
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S6 E6: Jack Register on Toxic Masculinity
12/01/2023
S6 E6: Jack Register on Toxic Masculinity
In this episode, we speak with Jack Register, Clinical Director of the Claudia Black Young Adult Center, about toxic masculinity. He talks us through his experience as a military kid and the transition to being in relationships as an adult. Jack also shares how he helps young men navigate their emotions in his work here at MBH.
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S6 E5: Mike Gurr on Navigating Parenting
11/17/2023
S6 E5: Mike Gurr on Navigating Parenting
Parenting teenagers with mental health issues can be extremely challenging, but there are professional treatment options like therapy and residential programs that can provide individualized, trauma-informed care to help kids heal. As Executive Director of the Meadows Adolescent Center, Mike Gurr explains the assessments and protocols they use to support teens struggling with anxiety, depression and self-harm. Though the parenting journey has ups and downs, Gurr emphasizes that with the right treatment and family engagement, transformative change is possible.
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S6 E4: Magnus Johnson on Mission 22
11/10/2023
S6 E4: Magnus Johnson on Mission 22
In this special Veterans Day episode, we speak with Magnus Johnson, founder of Mission 22. He details his military service, why he started his non-profit, and shares thoughts on veteran suicide and mental health issues.
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S6 E3: Tina Aggarwal on Complex Trauma Within Marginalized Communities
10/20/2023
S6 E3: Tina Aggarwal on Complex Trauma Within Marginalized Communities
In this episode, we speak with Tina Aggarwal, Director of Outpatient Services at The Meadows-Silicon Valley, about her personal experiences as a complex trauma survivor and how it informs her work with those in marginalized communities. She breaks down how this type of healing works, reminding that it takes time, but transformation is possible.
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S6 E2: Breanna Mylius and Yvonne Marchese on Ageism
10/12/2023
S6 E2: Breanna Mylius and Yvonne Marchese on Ageism
According to the United Nations, it is estimated that one in two people are ageists. In this episode we talk to Breanna Mylius, Clinical Director of The Meadows (our flagship facility), and Yvonne Marchese, host of the , about the mental health implications and effects of ageism.
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S6 E1 Coach Mike Ferullo and Meaghan Langlois on Wellness Recovery
10/06/2023
S6 E1 Coach Mike Ferullo and Meaghan Langlois on Wellness Recovery
In the season six premiere, we speak with Coach Mike Ferullo and Meaghan Langlois of the Boston Bulldog Running Club and Wellness Recovery. Coach Mike provides insight on his approach to integrative wellness while Meaghan shares her story of finding the running club.
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Beyond Theory Season 6: Call To Action
09/21/2023
Beyond Theory Season 6: Call To Action
A preview of season six of Beyond Theory. New episode premiere October 6.
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S5 E15: Racial Trauma Within the Black Community
02/10/2023
S5 E15: Racial Trauma Within the Black Community
Season 5, Episode 15: Black trauma is a complex issue with many layers when you dive into its history. In the season finale of Beyond Theory, we speak with Deran Young and Dr. Sheldon Jacobs, who share their personal stories and the work they are doing to face the mental health challenges in the Black community. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to Deran Young, Founder of Black Therapists Rock. For mor infomation about her work, go to blacktherapistsrock.com Also, to Dr. Sheldon Jacobs, Member of the board of directors at NAMI and Adjunct Professor at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas. Sources to create this episode include ABC News, NBC News, NBC 12 Richmond, and New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.
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S5 E14: Tamu Lewis on Suicide and Her Brother's Legacy
02/02/2023
S5 E14: Tamu Lewis on Suicide and Her Brother's Legacy
Today, we speak with author and mental health advocate Tamu Lewis as she discusses the emotions around losing her brother. She also explains how therapy helped her grieve and eventually turn her brother's legacy into action by starting a foundation in his honor. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to Tamu Lewis, Co-Founder and Board President of the Lee Thompson Young Foundation. To learn more about her work go to . Sources to create this episode include the Atlanta Voice, ABC7 Chicago, and CBS Studios. Finally, thank you for listening, and I hope you join us next week for another episode of Beyond Theory.
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S5 E13: Dr. Bessel van der Kolk on Trauma
01/26/2023
S5 E13: Dr. Bessel van der Kolk on Trauma
Season 5, Episode 13: Trauma shows up in our bodies and our brains, having both a mental and physical impact. The long-term effects of trauma can even include changes in the brain, impacting memory, mood, and cognitive skills. Today we speak with MBH Senior Fellow Dr. Bessel van der Kolk about trauma and how early intervention can help decrease violence and incarceration rates. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to MBH Senior Fellow Dr. Bessel van der Kolk. To learn more about his work, go to www.meadowsbh.com/senior-fellows/ Sources to create this episode include the Veterans Administration, ABC News, The New York Times, WQED Pittsburgh, and Ted.com. Finally, thank you for listening, and I hope you join us next week for another episode of Beyond Theory.
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S5 E12: Dr. Kevin McCauley on Fentanyl
01/20/2023
S5 E12: Dr. Kevin McCauley on Fentanyl
Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for adults 18-45, according to the CDC, and is responsible for killing more than COVID-19, suicide, and car accidents. Today we speak with MBH Senior Fellow Dr. Kevin McCauley about the history and dangers of fentanyl. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to MBH Senior Fellow Dr. Kevin McCauley. To learn more about his work, go to www.meadowsbh.com/senior-fellows/ Sources to create this episode include the Centers for Disease Control, KCRA Sacramento, WYFF Greenville, WLWT Cincinnati, WKRN Nashville, DEA.GOV, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Finally, thank you for listening, and I hope you join us next week for another episode of Beyond Theory.
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S5 E11: Britt Frank on Feeling Stuck
01/12/2023
S5 E11: Britt Frank on Feeling Stuck
We all feel stuck sometimes. It may be in a relationship or a job that no longer feels fulfilling. Today Britt Frank explains what happens to our brains when we feel stuck and how to reverse the process and become unstuck. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to Britt Frank, therapist and author of The Science of Stuck: Breaking Through Inertia To Find Your Path Forward. To find out more about her work and book, go to thegreenhousekc.com. Sources to create this episode include The Korean Vegan, Essence Magazine, Tony Evans.org, PBS News Hour, Oracle, Yahoo News and MSN.com. Finally, thank you for listening, and I hope you join us next week for another episode of Beyond Theory.
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S5 E10: Breanna Mylius on Hustle Culture
01/05/2023
S5 E10: Breanna Mylius on Hustle Culture
Hustle culture is deeply embedded in our society and is even romanticized as a necessary part of achieving the American dream. However, what happens when we overindulge in the hustle? What are the adverse effects? Today we speak with Breanna Mylius about the impact of hustle culture here in the United States and beyond. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Sources to create this episode include The New York Times, World Health Organization, International Labor Organization, History.com, and Wired.com.
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S5 E9: Kelley Kitley on Mommy Drinking Culture and Escapism
12/15/2022
S5 E9: Kelley Kitley on Mommy Drinking Culture and Escapism
Moms, parenting, and drinking have been a pop culture phenomenon by some estimates as far back as two decades ago, now known as mommy drinking culture. Today we speak with Kelley Kitley about the dangers of mommy drinking culture. And later, we discuss what we should be mindful of when it comes to our escapism this holiday season. Special thanks to Kelley Kitley, author & national mental health media expert. To learn more about her book and work, go to . Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include the Wall Street Journal, Centers for Disease Control, Happier Human.com, Harvard Health, Yahoo News, and Good Housekeeping.com.
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S5 E8: Dr. Elisa Hallerman on Soulbriety
12/09/2022
S5 E8: Dr. Elisa Hallerman on Soulbriety
Let’s say you have been in recovery for a few years. The negative behavior has gone away, but you still feel like something is missing. Maybe you are still hurting. Today we speak with Dr. Elisa Hallerman about doing the inner work to deepen our recovery and reconnect with our soul. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to Dr. Elisa Hallerman, author of Soulbriety. To find out more about her book and her work, go to Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include the Tell Your Story podcast, Inc Magazine, Psychology Today, and Variety Media
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S5 E7: Tracey Fuller on Stress Around The Holidays
12/01/2022
S5 E7: Tracey Fuller on Stress Around The Holidays
In a poll, 45 percent of Americans said they would have no problem skipping the holidays. With the stress and anxiety that comes with holidays, it is easy to understand why. Today we speak with Tracey Fuller about some of the stress we often feel around the season. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Special thanks to Tracey Fuller, a therapist from MBHConnect. To find out more about her work, go to meadowsoutpatient.com/virtualiop And Naomi Adams from Chicago Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include Insider.com, ABCNews, Yahoo News, NBCNews, and Everyday Health.
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S5 E6: Challenges of Women Veterans
11/11/2022
S5 E6: Challenges of Women Veterans
When you decide to put the uniform on, it's one of the most honorable things you can do. To serve your country is to serve a cause bigger than yourself. You understand the sacrifices, but you also know you will be connected with potentially lifelong companions that you have a shared experience with. That can be powerful. However, what is life like when you come home? You have lived a certain lifestyle for many years only to come back feeling as if everything has changed. And if you are a woman veteran, are there additional challenges? Today we speak with two women military veterans. MBH Connect’s therapist Kelly Walch, and Community Relationships Ambassador & host of the , Cat Corchado, discuss some challenges women face as veterans. Be sure to read Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include the Wounded Warrior Project, Veteran Affairs News, CBS Evening News, NBC12/ABC25 Jacksonville, Florida, WMGT Macon Warner Robins, Georgia, and the MilitaryTimes.com
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S5 E5: Kristin Kirkpatrick on Body Shaming
11/03/2022
S5 E5: Kristin Kirkpatrick on Body Shaming
There is a concerning trend, and it doesn't appear to be going away anytime soon. Even more concerning is that it appears no one is immune. Celebrities, news anchors, and even children. Why is this happening? What is the mental health impact? Today we speak with Meadows Senior Fellow about body shaming and where our focus should be. Later we discuss foods to consider as we age for positive mental health. Kristin Kirkpatrick is a nutritionist and Meadows Senior Fellow. Learn more about her at meadowsbh.com/senior-fellows/. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include Good Morning America, WCNC Charlotte, and the journals Clinical Nutrition and Nutrients, and both can be found in the National Library of Medicine.
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S5 E4: Amy Kennedy on Mental Health Advocacy in Schools
10/20/2022
S5 E4: Amy Kennedy on Mental Health Advocacy in Schools
Imagine you are a teacher. You are giving your weekly exam today, and your students are filing in for class, taking their seats. It’s not a major exam but one that lets you know your students have an understanding of the lesson from the past week. One of your top students asks to go to the restroom. You tell them that the exam shouldn’t take too long, and they can go afterward. The exam begins, and moments later, you look up and notice the student who asked to go to the restroom is now sweating and breathing erratically. They are also clutching stomach tightly. They don’t need a bathroom. They are experiencing a panic attack. So what’s the next step? How do you calm the student down? And probably the biggest question on your mind is, how could this have happened? Today we speak with Amy Kennedy, co-founder of The Kennedy Forum, about the importance of why there should be more mental health services in schools. Amy Kennedy is the co-founder of The Kennedy Forum, which leads a national dialogue on transforming mental health and addiction care in the U.S. Find out more about her work at www.thekennedyforum.org. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include The Australian Broadcasting Company, The US Department of Education, The Boston Globe, and the American School Counselor Association. For more information on Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, go to MeadowsBH.com.
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S5 E3: Ben Zobrist on Pressure and Anxiety (Part 2)
10/13/2022
S5 E3: Ben Zobrist on Pressure and Anxiety (Part 2)
In the conclusion of our conversation with Ben Zobrist, he discusses in-depth the aftermath of winning the World Series. And later, Ben details what he thinks about the steps Major League Baseball is taking regarding its players and mental health. Read If you need someone to talk to, dial or text 988. For more information, go to . Ben Zobrist is a former professional baseball player who is a two-time World Series champion and APAF board member. He is also a strong advocate for mental health and youth sports. Also, special thanks to Terrance from Nashville. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include Harvard Medical School and MLB.com.
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S5 E2: Ben Zobrist on Pressure and Anxiety (Part 1)
10/06/2022
S5 E2: Ben Zobrist on Pressure and Anxiety (Part 1)
Depression exhibits itself in many ways. For some, it's a feeling of hopelessness. For others, it can manifest itself in aches and pains. But what does it look like for a high-performing athlete? What happens when you reach the height of your sport and that anxiety still creeps in? Today we speak with two-time World Series Champion and APAF board member Ben Zobrist about his battle with depression and anxiety throughout his baseball career. Ben Zobrist is a former professional baseball player who is a two-time World Series champion and father of three. He is also a strong advocate for mental health and youth sports. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced, written, and hosted by Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at . Script Editor: Wendy Lee Nutwig Special thanks to Stacie Collins and Terrance White. Sources used to create this episode of Beyond Theory include NCAA.org, MLB.com, and the National Library of Medicine.
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S5 E1: Phil Rutherford on Recovery Advocacy
09/30/2022
S5 E1: Phil Rutherford on Recovery Advocacy
Advocacy. It's how we bring awareness to specific issues, marginalized communities, and more. However, what does that look like in practice? How can we ensure that our advocacy actually renders the change we’re looking for? Phil Rutherford is the Chief Operating Officer at Faces and Voice of Recovery, which is dedicated to organizing and mobilizing the over 23 million Americans in Recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs. He is also the host of “This Is What Recovery Looks Like. Findound out more about his work and the podcast at facesandvoicesofrecovery.org. Beyond Theory, powered by Meadows Behavioral Healthcare, is produced and hosted by me, Dominic Lawson. You can discover more at BeyondTheoryPodcast.com. Sources to create this episode of Beyond Theory include the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the WABC New York’s television program Life As It Is, and Throughline, an NPR podcast.
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Beyond Theory: A New Chapter
09/15/2022
Beyond Theory: A New Chapter
For this season of Beyond Theory, we want to dive deeper into the meaning behind our name by being more topic-focused and bringing you guests in a brand new format. We believe this will make for a more relatable and engaging experience, expanding the mental health conversation and adding more voices. The topics we will discuss this season prioritize self-care, hustle culture, spirituality in recovery, and so much more.
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