Fearless Happyness Podcast
The Fearless Happyness Podcast showcases phenomenal individuals, from across the United States and from all walks of life, who overcame serious traumas, addictions, life obstacles and challenges to living the life of their dreams. Listen in as each week, Max and his guests sit down to share their experiences and spread strength, hope and faith to help others also become fearless in their pursuit of happiness!!
info_outline
A Couple Whose Relationship's Downfall Turned Into Its Saving Grace with Britton & Carolee Beckham | 218
11/19/2025
A Couple Whose Relationship's Downfall Turned Into Its Saving Grace with Britton & Carolee Beckham | 218
Carolee and Britton Beckham grew up in the Mormon Church. They followed all the steps. They got married. They had children. They believed. And when infidelity became a problem, they went to the Church for guidance, fully expecting healing. When they got the opposite, the couple decided to make a big change, one from within (and without the Church). The Beckhams speak candidly about all the ups and downs of their marital and spiritual journeys and share what saved them. For more from the Beckhams: TheMagicalStoryofUs.com For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit MaxNijst.org
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/39060000
info_outline
Recovering Addict Who Finally Discovered His Way To Get And Stay Clean with Jason Mazur | 217
11/12/2025
Recovering Addict Who Finally Discovered His Way To Get And Stay Clean with Jason Mazur | 217
Jason Mazur is a recovering heroin and meth addict who tried EVERYTHING to get and stay clean. Enter ibogaine. It’s not approved in the states, but he swears by its effectiveness. And he’s here to tell you about his experience and how he’s become an advocate for finding what works for you. For more from Jason: Facebook- Jazon Mazur (from Indianapolis) Email: Cell: 812-361-6714 For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/39000535
info_outline
Psychotherapist With A Conviction: You Are Not Your Trauma with Alisa Gracheva | 216
11/05/2025
Psychotherapist With A Conviction: You Are Not Your Trauma with Alisa Gracheva | 216
Psychotherapist Alisa Gracheva specializes in trauma. As you may guess, she has her own story (which is fascinating), and it led her here. She speaks with Max about the importance of self-awareness, explains the physiology of panic attacks, and much more. For more from Alisa: Social Media- @alisa_art Work- For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38917570
info_outline
CEO/Founder of Real Estate Investment Firm Who Rebuilt His Life After Incarceration with Bo Belmont | 215
10/29/2025
CEO/Founder of Real Estate Investment Firm Who Rebuilt His Life After Incarceration with Bo Belmont | 215
Steven "Bo" Belmont is a CEO/Founder of a successful real estate investment firm called Belwood Investments. To look at him, you'd never know he'd been incarcerated...but he was. And he wouldn't change it now if he could. Listen as Bo tells Max about the impact prison made on the man he ultiamtely became. (Spoiler alert: it's inspiring.) For for from Bo: (or the Belwood Investor app) Book: Email: For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38785120
info_outline
Author, Mother , Trauma Survivor, & Nonprofit Founder Who WILL Find A Way With Julie Barth | 214
10/23/2025
Author, Mother , Trauma Survivor, & Nonprofit Founder Who WILL Find A Way With Julie Barth | 214
Mother (of 6) Author, and Charity Founder Julie Barth is a force to be reckoned with. Her daughter Tatym suffers from a rare genetic condition called Primordial Dwarfism, which led her to have over 40 surgeries to repair her trachea. She lost her husband to pancreatic cancer when her oldest was ten and the youngest was six months. And yet, she never quit. Not even when she found herself in a toxic relationship. Not even…fill in the blank with the next hardship. Do yourself a favor and witness the absolute treat of Julie’s resilience. It’s inspiring. More from Julie: Website: BooK: More from Max: visit MaxNijst.org
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38752065
info_outline
Community Advocate, Mentor, & Speaker Who Uses His Past Mistakes As A Stepping Stone With Marcel Clarke | 213
10/15/2025
Community Advocate, Mentor, & Speaker Who Uses His Past Mistakes As A Stepping Stone With Marcel Clarke | 213
Marcel Clarke is a serial entrepreneur with a unique journey to success. An honor student of the streets, he transformed his life. Now, he is a successful entrepreneur and real estate developer, with investments in the stock market and cryptocurrency. Marcel is also a community advocate, speaker, and mentor, dedicated to sharing industry knowledge and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Marcel discusses his journey with Max, and it's a great hang! For More From Marcel: | Marcel's Book: For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38569995
info_outline
Entrepreneur and business strategist whose mission matters more than grief, breakdown, or burnout with Serina Justiniano | 212
10/08/2025
Entrepreneur and business strategist whose mission matters more than grief, breakdown, or burnout with Serina Justiniano | 212
Entrepreneur and Business Strategist Serina Justiniano has been through it...but it hasn't stopped her yet. Listen to her discuss her upbringing, betrayals by professionals she should have been able to trust, personal and professional setbacks, and how she ultimately got to where she is today (which is being a total entrepreneurial badass, by the way) without losing the most important part along the way: herself. For more of Serina: Instagram/TikTok: @thealigned_founder To work with her: For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38498645
info_outline
Entrepreneur & Recovery Advocate Who Loves To Help Addicts Find God with Estil Wallace | 211
10/01/2025
Entrepreneur & Recovery Advocate Who Loves To Help Addicts Find God with Estil Wallace | 211
Estil Wallace is a father, husband, entrepreneur and investor who has been sober for over 20 years (like Max!) Listen to him discuss his journey from addiction and homelessness to entrepreneurial business success...and all the highs and lows in between. For More from Estil: Instagram and Youtube: (Podcast: Struggle & Strive) For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38396685
info_outline
Your Voice Has The Power To Change Your Entire Life with Maryn Azoff | 210
09/24/2025
Your Voice Has The Power To Change Your Entire Life with Maryn Azoff | 210
Get ready to be amazed at your own power. Yep, you’ve had it inside you all along: your voice. Vocal Transformation Coach Maryn Azoff shares her own triumphant story of incredible healing through the power of her voice as well as tips for how to find yours. You don’t want to miss this important episode. And dare we suggest you watch it this time on YouTube? We found it extremely helpful to see Maryn as she coaches (and you) through some exercises. For More of Maryn: vocaltransformation.com Instagram/LinkedIn/TikTok: @vocal_transformation For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit MaxNijst.org
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38329125
info_outline
I Love with Troy Hadeed | 209
09/17/2025
I Love with Troy Hadeed | 209
Author, Speaker, Human Relations & Perspective Coach, and Yoga Teacher Troy Hadeed speaks with Max about the importance of LOVE in this day and age. And as many identifiers as there are above to describe Troy and what he does, he discusses his passion about his wish for us not to always need to categorize ourselves. Like his book title says, we're not all that different. How to find Troy: Instagram and TikTok: TroyHadeed Online Yoga: Book: My Name Is Love: We're Not All That Different For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit .
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38258115
info_outline
The Power of Sound Medicine with Andrew Ecker | 208
09/05/2025
The Power of Sound Medicine with Andrew Ecker | 208
In this powerful conversation with Max Nijst, Andrew Ecker shares his extraordinary transformation from a life shattered by generational trauma, addiction, and 3.5 years in federal prison to becoming a renowned drum circle facilitator who has led over 5,000 healing circles across psychiatric lockdowns, cancer treatment centers, and Native American reservations. Drawing from his Apache, Irish, and German heritage, Andrew reveals how discovering the ancient technology of drumming and his "Sacred 7" ceremonial process became the medicine that saved his life after losing both parents to drug-related deaths and surviving his own suicide attempts. He explains how rhythm creates a sacred space where demographics fade and people connect at the most basic level of humanness, and why helping others remember who they truly are—beyond their pain, beyond their stories—has become his life's mission in service to communities across Phoenix and an entire world of Fearless Happyness.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/38097675
info_outline
The Courage to Remember with Melissa Osorio | E207
08/22/2025
The Courage to Remember with Melissa Osorio | E207
In this profound conversation with Max Nijst, Melissa Osorio shares how losing her brother at age three and her father's murder at sixteen set her on a relentless pursuit of success that ultimately led to emotional bankruptcy. Despite building thriving businesses and achieving financial freedom in America, she found herself at 36 facing a complete breakdown that forced her to confront two decades of suppressed trauma. Melissa reveals how psychedelics and plant medicine became unexpected allies in excavating buried memories, teaching her that the shadows we hide from often contain the wisdom we need most. Her story is a testament to the radical transformation possible when we stop running from our pain and instead turn toward it with curiosity and courage, discovering that what we thought would destroy us can actually set us on a path to Fearless Happyness.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37918530
info_outline
From Bullsh*t to Botox to Bestseller with Sandra Lena Silverman | E206
08/13/2025
From Bullsh*t to Botox to Bestseller with Sandra Lena Silverman | E206
In this transformative episode of the Fearless Happyness Podcast, host Max Nijst sits down with Miami-based #1 bestselling author, wellness advocate, and beauty expert Sandra Lena Silverman for an inspiring conversation about redefining aging and embracing self-care with confidence. Sandra, author of the bestselling book "From Bullsh*t to Botox," shares her journey of personal experimentation with skincare treatments, wellness routines, and medical procedures. Sandra Lena Silverman: The #1 Best-Selling Author ... Now in her fifties but looking more than a decade younger, Sandra has the results to prove her methods work. Sandra opens up about cutting through beauty industry misinformation and helping women take control of their aging journey without losing their minds or their money. She discusses how she grew her Instagram following from 800 to over 200,000 through authenticity and a genuine desire to help others. She emphasizes that aging isn't a battle—it's a transition, and beauty isn't just about how you look—it's about how you feel in your own skin, every single day. This episode showcases Sandra's transformation from personal struggle to becoming a trusted guide for thousands, demonstrating the courage to redefine societal expectations around aging and beauty—truly embodying a life of Fearless Happyness.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37795120
info_outline
Unlocking Confidence in a Room of 400 Strangers with CJ Ledy | E205
08/06/2025
Unlocking Confidence in a Room of 400 Strangers with CJ Ledy | E205
What happens when a life-altering hypnosis experience in a room of 400 people completely transforms your ability to connect with others? In this captivating episode, Max sits down with CJ LEDY, mindset coach, keynote speaker, and author of "Tune Your Mind," who shares his remarkable journey from crippling social anxiety to becoming a sought-after speaker working with Fortune 100 companies and professional athletes. | CJ opens up about the pivotal moment when being hypnotized in front of hundreds of strangers unlocked something profound within him—the ability to talk to anyone without fear. Following this breakthrough and the devastating loss of four close friends, CJ forged an obsession with the power of the mind and its impact on quality of life. In this powerful conversation, CJ reveals how he transformed his newfound confidence into a mission to help others tune their mental instruments for peak performance. From living in an RV while traveling North America to building a $100M+ real estate portfolio, CJ demonstrates how mastering your mindset can revolutionize every aspect of your life. He shares his 3-step process for achieving follow-through and fulfillment despite the distractions and disruptions we all face daily. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, seeking to unlock your potential, or looking to break through mental barriers holding you back, CJ's story will remind you that transformation can happen in an instant—and that your mind is the most powerful instrument you'll ever possess.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37699160
info_outline
From Rock Bottom to Reel Success with Jamie Tall | E204
07/30/2025
From Rock Bottom to Reel Success with Jamie Tall | E204
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jamie Tall, a recovery coach, YouTube content creator, and self-proclaimed "hope dealer" who's transforming lives through authentic storytelling. Jamie shares their powerful journey from addiction to advocacy, revealing how they've built a platform that brings hope to thousands in recovery. In this episode, we explore the turning points that sparked lasting change, the power of vulnerability in healing, and practical strategies for breaking free from addiction. Jamie opens up about using social media as a recovery tool and the importance of community in the healing journey. Whether you're in recovery, supporting a loved one, or seeking inspiration to overcome life's challenges, this conversation will remind you that your darkest moments can become your greatest purpose. Jamie shows you how to transform pain into power and live a life of fearless happyness.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37604240
info_outline
The Power of Belief with Joel Bein | E203
07/22/2025
The Power of Belief with Joel Bein | E203
Join Max Nijst for a transformative conversation with Joel Bein, founder of Human Liberation, who shares his revolutionary discovery that our beliefs—not our circumstances—create our reality. In this profound episode, Joel reveals how negative beliefs hidden in the subconscious mind are the root cause of self-doubt and suffering, and demonstrates his groundbreaking approach to permanently removing these limiting beliefs for immediate and lasting freedom. Learn why traditional personal development often fails, how beliefs formed in childhood continue to shape our adult experience, and why removing them—rather than trying to override them with positive thinking—is the key to authentic transformation. Joel explains how this simple yet profound understanding can liberate anyone from patterns of self-sabotage and limitation, showing why belief work isn't about adding something new, but about removing what was never true in the first place. Tune in for a conversation that could fundamentally change how you understand yourself and what's possible in your life.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37499175
info_outline
How Music Saved a Life with Jonathan Taylor | E202
07/15/2025
How Music Saved a Life with Jonathan Taylor | E202
What if one concert could save a life? In this powerful episode, Max sits down with world-renowned classical guitarist Jonathan Taylor, who shares not just his musical journey but a lifetime of discipline, heart, and resilience. He opens up about the struggles of youth, the grind behind greatness, and the moment a stranger decided not to end his life after attending Jonathan’s performance. It’s a raw, thoughtful, and uplifting conversation about why real happiness comes from doing what you were made for. Connect with Jonathan: LinkedIn: IG: Check his YouTube Channel: Episode highlights: (1:07) Meet Jonathan Taylor: Concert guitarist with 32 albums (2:26) Early life, grandmother’s influence, and first ukulele (4:34) Inspired by Segovia at 16 (5:53) Mentors and hard lessons (6:46) “The dream is free, the hustle is sold separately” (11:03) Why you must keep growing (13:25) Real music is about heart, not perfection (20:35) Alcohol, functioning addiction & different paths (24:41) Discipline from age 10 and the journey to mastery (30:09) The surprising piano origins of Spanish guitar pieces (35:27) Guitar and piano: A new look at their sound (38:38) The concert that saved a man’s life (43:39) Know what you were made for (50:26) Jonathan on fearless living and finding happiness
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37398800
info_outline
From Radio Fame to Rock Bottom: A Journey to Sobriety and Strength with Jason LaChance| E201
07/08/2025
From Radio Fame to Rock Bottom: A Journey to Sobriety and Strength with Jason LaChance| E201
What happens when success masks deep inner pain? On this episode, Max sits down with Jason LaChance, a former radio personality turned recovery advocate. Jason opens up about growing up in a household marked by addiction, finding early escape in unhealthy habits, and how his career in broadcast media fueled his downward spiral. But this is a story of hope. Jason shares the moment that nearly cost him his life and how that crash became the turning point for lasting recovery. Don’t miss this powerful conversation, hit play and hear how Jason turned pain into purpose. Where to find Jason: 🌐 Website: 🤳 Check out PAIN on Instagram - @painnonprofit 📸 Connect on Instagram – @nooutsidesolutions Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:40) Jason's intro and background (3:05) Growing up in a family with addiction (8:36) How his addiction began and progressed (16:40) Hitting rock bottom and a near-death experience (25:30) True recovery begins (30:41) Life changes through doing the work (40:32) What does fearless mean to Jason (42:58) What happiness means today (47:35) One powerful piece of advice for growth
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37304950
info_outline
Surviving Family Abuse, Cults & Crime: Sabrina Kapper’s Fight for Truth and Healing | E200
07/01/2025
Surviving Family Abuse, Cults & Crime: Sabrina Kapper’s Fight for Truth and Healing | E200
What does it take to stand up to the very people who were supposed to protect you, but instead caused your deepest wounds? In this gripping episode, Max sits down with Sabrina Capper, author of Licking the Knife, a raw true crime memoir that recounts surviving extreme abuse within her own family. Sabrina opens up about growing up in a toxic home entangled with cult-like religion and organized crime, and the courage it took to confront her dying abuser face to face. From breaking the silence to finding her voice, Sabrina’s story is heartbreaking, brave, and inspiring. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing begins the moment you speak your truth. Sabrina Capper is a successful PR and Communications professional representing Fortune 500 companies and incredible leaders worldwide. In 2023, she left the corporate world to pursue creative endeavors including writing and art. Her goal is to spark a conversation with generations of women raised in silence. Where to find Sabrina: 🌐 Website: 🤳 Follow Sabrina on TikTok – @SabrinaCapper 📸 Connect on Instagram – @SabrinaCapper 📘 Grab a copy of her book, Licking the Knife: Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:21) Sabrina introduces her memoir Licking the Knife (3:00) Meaning behind the book’s title and childhood trauma (4:12) Family history with addiction and silence (9:40) The shocking event that pushed Sabrina to write her story (11:01) Confronting her grandfather on his deathbed (14:40) Insights into abuse, cult control, and organized crime (28:49) The moment Sabrina broke free emotionally (36:06) How her family tried to intimidate her into silence (53:55) Sabrina’s definition of “fearless” and “happiness” (58:18) Her advice: aim for just 1% better every day
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37217975
info_outline
Actor. Addict. Alive: Sean Hemeon's Journey Through Darkness to Light | E199
06/24/2025
Actor. Addict. Alive: Sean Hemeon's Journey Through Darkness to Light | E199
Disclaimer: This episode includes adult themes and candid discussion of addiction and drug use. What happens when your biggest secret becomes your loudest truth? In this gripping episode, actor and artist Sean Hemeon shares the raw and unfiltered story of his journey from a chaotic childhood to addiction and crime, and ultimately, to recovery and purpose. From growing up in a strict Mormon-Catholic household to falling into addiction while secretly battling his identity, Sean opens up about the night that changed everything—and the unlikely grace that followed. Now 20 years sober, Sean talks about his upcoming memoir The Good Little Drug Lord, finding peace, and living life out loud. This is a story of pain, survival, and finally, real joy. Where to find more of Sean and his work: 🌐 Official Website: 📱 Follow on IG: Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:28) Sean’s background and Hollywood career (2:51) His chaotic childhood and family dynamics (9:13) Early trauma and feelings of invisibility (11:04) Internal struggle with identity and faith (14:15) First experience with alcohol (18:56) Suicide attempt and first coming out (21:11) Beginning of meth addiction (27:00) Arrest and pressure to inform (36:20) Witnessing a friend’s death (41:26) Mother’s heartbreaking call (48:23) Rock bottom and asking for help (55:58) Recovery journey and life today (1:12:25) Details on Sean’s book and where to find him
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37115340
info_outline
Resilient, Joyful, Unstoppable: A Journey to True Happiness with Mary England | E198
06/17/2025
Resilient, Joyful, Unstoppable: A Journey to True Happiness with Mary England | E198
📘 This is About You on Amazon: 📱 Follow her IG: @merrimentmaker Episode highlights: (1:20) Mary’s introduction and her mission (2:13) Childhood trauma and early mental health struggles (5:05) Her complex diagnoses and fight for support (10:22) When she decided to fight for change (14:24) Building habits to prevent backsliding (26:07) Finding joy through giving back (35:42) What fearless and happiness mean to Mary (42:07) How to work with Mary and access her resources (44:43) About her book “This Is About You” (46:08) Mary’s #1 advice for growing as a person
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/37027080
info_outline
The 5-Word Formula That’s Helping Thousands Heal: Grace Trail with Anne Jolles | E197
06/10/2025
The 5-Word Formula That’s Helping Thousands Heal: Grace Trail with Anne Jolles | E197
What if five simple questions could help you heal, find peace, and reconnect with the people you love? In this heartwarming episode, Max welcomes Anne Jolles, creator of the Grace Trail, a process that started from personal chaos and became a powerful tool for emotional healing. Anne shares how growing up in an alcoholic home and losing both parents within six months led her to a breaking point, and ultimately to the creation of the Grace Trail: Gratitude, Release, Accept, Challenge, and Embrace. From walking the trail with her husband to supporting her son during his deployment in Afghanistan, Anne explains how these five questions helped her and others move forward in life with hope and purpose. Learn more about Anne: 🌐 Official Grace Trail Website: 📘 Grace Trail Book on Amazon: 🎥 Grace Trail YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Grace_Trail 💼 Connect with Anne on LinkedIn: 📱 Follow on Instagram: 📘 Follow on Facebook: 📩 Contact Anne: anne@gracetrail.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:36) Meet Anne Jolles and the birth of Grace Trail (3:05) Childhood struggles and breaking the cycle of addiction (6:18) The five Grace Trail questions explained (8:32) Walking Grace Trail during her son's deployment (14:18) From private practice to public trails and a book (23:32) Deep dive into each Grace Trail question (43:58) What fearless and happiness mean to Anne (48:56) Anne’s simple but powerful daily question: "What can I do to make today really matter?" (51:00) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36918975
info_outline
Abuse, Addiction, and Loss: Why Pain Doesn’t Define You with Blanca Rodriguez | E196
06/02/2025
Abuse, Addiction, and Loss: Why Pain Doesn’t Define You with Blanca Rodriguez | E196
What happens when you stop running from your past and start healing it? In this powerful episode, Blanca Rodriguez shares her journey from childhood trauma and silence to purpose, healing, and fearless transformation. From the loss of her father and surviving abuse to becoming a massage therapist, holistic life coach, and bestselling author, Blanca opens up about what it really takes to break generational cycles and rebuild from the inside out. Her message is one of strength, responsibility, and radical self-love. If you're ready to reclaim your power, this one is for you. Blanca has dedicated her career to helping individuals understand the long-term effects of untreated childhood trauma and how music, laughter, and dance can provide a creative outlet for healing and transformation. Blanca’s contribution to the personal growth world has helped individuals improve their quality of life by helping them understand that life does not get better by chance; it gets better by change. Connect with Blanca: https://www.woundedhealer.us/ https://www.instagram.com/woundedhealer.blancae https://www.facebook.com/r.blancae/ Grab a copy of her books: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=impact+leadership+blanca+rodriguez Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:20) Who is Blanca Rodriguez (6:04) “I was nine when it all began” (11:27) The turning point: motherhood (17:48) Breaking generational cycles (20:40) Going back to school at 38 (21:55) How “The Secret” sparked healing (23:42) Tools that helped her transform (26:45) Healing the inner child (32:39) Parenting then vs. now (36:42) Daily tools to break the cycle (39:03) Why Blanca became a life coach (41:45) Her bestselling book ‘Impact Leadership’ (47:57) What fearless means to her (49:19) Her version of happiness (52:42) One final life-changing piece of advice (53:54) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36826540
info_outline
Anxiety, Burnout, and Reinvention: A Powerful Career Pivot with Allison Guilbault | E195
05/28/2025
Anxiety, Burnout, and Reinvention: A Powerful Career Pivot with Allison Guilbault | E195
What would you do if you hit a wall in your career and realized you were living a life that didn’t feel like yours? In this episode, Max sits down with Allison, a former private investigator turned therapist and coach, who shares how she rebuilt her life from burnout to purpose. From her early battles with anxiety and panic attacks in high school to working with men in solitary confinement at Rikers Island, Allison opens up about her path to healing and helping others. She discusses what real self-care entails, why pivoting isn’t a failure, and how to safeguard your peace when helping others navigate their darkest moments. Whether you're feeling stuck or just need a reminder that it’s okay to start over, this one’s for you. Connect with Allison: Web: IG: @anotefromyourtherapist LinkedIn: Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:29) Allison’s intro and career journey from PI to therapist (3:13) The high school panic attack that started it all (5:48) Burnout, breakdown, and the bold mid-life pivot (10:21) Managing trauma work and burnout with real self-care (15:17) Choosing sobriety and building a new social life (20:39) Parenthood, private practice, and life pivots (32:52) Creative passions, writing a book, and podcasting (35:41) What “fearless” and “happiness” really mean to Allison (41:57) One powerful piece of advice: give yourself a break (43:02) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36734375
info_outline
From Trauma to Purpose and a Life of Impact with Alan Lazaros | E194
05/20/2025
From Trauma to Purpose and a Life of Impact with Alan Lazaros | E194
What if your biggest setback was your greatest setup for success? In this episode, Max talks with Alan Lazaros, speaker, coach, and founder of Next Level University. Alan opens up about losing his father at a young age, facing major family changes, and the car accident at 26 that forced him to rethink everything. He shares how self-belief helped him rise through tough times and how he now helps others do the same. From childhood trauma to personal growth and real success, this conversation is honest, inspiring, and full of practical takeaways. If you’ve ever felt lost or stuck, you’ll find a lot of hope here. How to connect with Alan? 📧 alan@nextleveluniverse.com Instagram: instagram.com/alazaros88 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alan.lazaros LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanlazarosllc/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:50) Alan’s backstory: childhood loss and shifting family dynamics (9:47) Trauma response and academic overachievement (13:35) Climbing the corporate ladder and financial independence (15:36) The car accident that changed everything (17:49) The four stages of fulfillment and success (23:12) The role of self-belief in surviving hardship (29:07) External success vs. internal emptiness (36:45) What "fearless" means to Alan (38:51) Defining happiness and purpose (42:05) Alan’s one piece of advice for becoming a better person (43:08) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36618860
info_outline
How Nutrition, Faith & Grit Helped Reclaim Her Life with Laurie Hammer | E193
05/12/2025
How Nutrition, Faith & Grit Helped Reclaim Her Life with Laurie Hammer | E193
What if the food you eat could change your mind—and your life? In this episode, Max sits down with Laurie Hammer, a nutritional therapist who turned her 12-year battle with bulimia into a mission to help others heal. Laurie shares how discovering amino acid therapy and learning she had celiac disease changed everything—restoring her health, lifting her depression, and giving her life new purpose. They talk about the real connection between food, brain chemistry, and emotional health. From protein and gut health to faith, gratitude, and stepping out of your comfort zone, Laurie brings raw honesty and real tools for anyone looking to feel better from the inside out. Connect with Laurie: Web: LinkedIn: Facebook: Episode highlight: (0:00) Intro (2:21) Laurie’s struggle with bulimia and discovering functional medicine (6:33) Identifying food allergies and how they affect the brain (12:07) The importance of increasing protein intake (17:10) Risks of BCAAs and selecting the right amino acids (25:22) Laurie’s biggest lesson: trusting God through hard times (30:12) What happiness and joy mean to Laurie, and how she defines being fearless (34:03) How to connect with Lori and her upcoming Calm Mom Academy (34:58) Final advice: gratitude, brain health, and self-care (37:35) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36541435
info_outline
Analytics, Impact, and a Second Chance at Life with Kathleen Davis | E192
05/05/2025
Analytics, Impact, and a Second Chance at Life with Kathleen Davis | E192
What happens when a head injury almost ends your life, but you wake up more alive than ever? In this powerful episode, Max sits down with Kathleen Davis, CEO of SMRI and founder of SurveyEdge, to explore her inspiring journey from trailblazing NFL analytics to surviving a traumatic brain injury. Kathleen shares the challenges of thriving in male-dominated spaces, building data platforms that actually engage people, and finding joy through gratitude and service. Her story is proof that resilience, relationships, and a fearless heart can transform any setback into strength. Whether you're an entrepreneur, sports fan, or someone looking for renewed purpose, this conversation is a reminder to lead with love, live with curiosity, and serve with joy. Learn more about Kathleen: 📧 Email: info@go-smri.com 🌐 Website: go-smri.com 🌐 Website: survey-edge.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:25) Who is Kathleen, and what is her work in data analytics (5:47) How she collects high-quality on-site data (6:59) Creation of SurveyEdge and its growth post-COVID (10:43) What SMRI stands for and what it actually does (16:39) The economic impact of big events like the Super Bowl (23:50) Kathleen’s background, education, and early career (29:06) Surviving a traumatic head injury and finding a new purpose (32:21) What “fearless” means to her (34:49) Defining happiness and giving back (37:19) Her best life advice: Focus outward and add value to others (40:21) Outro
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36447505
info_outline
The Way We Are Being Chosen To Be Utilized In This World with Brandon Bell | E191
04/28/2025
The Way We Are Being Chosen To Be Utilized In This World with Brandon Bell | E191
Brandon Bell is a mentor, visionary artist, and entrepreneur passionate about empowering individuals and communities through creativity and personal growth. As CEO and co-founder of We Are Limitless Studios (WALS), he transforms public spaces with large-scale murals that foster connection and inspire dialogue. Building on the success of WALS, Brandon launched Let's Make Murals, a mentorship program designed to help artists transition from studio work to public art, while mastering business and community engagement. His work celebrates storytelling, diversity, and collaboration, earning him recognition for blending art with community development. Through his book, Positive Mental Artists, Brandon shares tools to help creatives align their mindset with their artistic success. He mentors middle school, high school, college students, and artists worldwide — often hiring them to assist or lead projects — providing hands-on experience and growth opportunities. By integrating his creative ventures, Brandon continues to inspire artists to build resilience, embrace a growth mindset, and create lasting impact through art and action.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36330200
info_outline
'Never, Ever, Ever, Let Anyone Write The Ending To Your Story' with Dr. Jan Mielke Schwartz | E190
04/22/2025
'Never, Ever, Ever, Let Anyone Write The Ending To Your Story' with Dr. Jan Mielke Schwartz | E190
The Fearless Happyness Podcast welcomes the extraordinary Dr. Jan Mielke Schwartz, an acclaimed author and speaker lauded by LA Weekly as "one of the most theoretically minded, hopeful, and erudite professionals in the fields of Criminology, Forensic Behavioral Science, Intelligence, and Homeland Security" (September 28, 2022). Described by the University of Pittsburgh as "one of those who show high promise of significant contribution to society and progress," Dr. Schwartz brings a unique blend of profound insight, warmth, and unwavering optimism to our conversation. Beyond her impactful work in complex global fields, Dr. Schwartz is the international bestselling author of "Last Summer with Oscar: An Adventurous True Story of Love and Courage" and its companion "Last Summer with Oscar Workbook." She is currently completing her highly anticipated non-fiction book, "Authentic Intelligence: How to Use Your Mental, Emotional & Spiritual Gifts to Create the Life - and World - You Want." With a deep commitment to fostering growth and healing at all levels – from individuals to nations – Dr. Schwartz joins us to share her wisdom on navigating the delicate balance between hope and reality, and how to tap into our innate potential for a more fulfilling life. A true believer in the power of humanity, Dr. Jan Mielke Schwartz is a guest you won't want to miss who shares her life of Fearless Happyness.
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36256715
info_outline
'Are you caught in the Good Daughter Trap?' with Katherine Fabrizio | E189
04/07/2025
'Are you caught in the Good Daughter Trap?' with Katherine Fabrizio | E189
Katherine Fabrizio is a psychotherapist and author specializing in the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, particularly when those dynamics are impacted by personality disorders like narcissism and borderline personality disorder. Drawing on her clinical experience and insights from her book, "The Good Daughter Syndrome," Katherine helps listeners understand the patterns of the "Good Daughter Syndrome" – a role often adopted by daughters of difficult, narcissistic, or emotionally immature mothers as a survival mechanism. Her work offers crucial guidance on recognizing and breaking free from these ingrained patterns, empowering individuals to prioritize their own emotional well-being. Katherine provides practical and actionable steps for setting healthy boundaries, navigating challenging family dynamics, and ultimately reclaiming personal power and autonomy. Tune in to Episode 189 of The Fearless Happyness Podcast, available at fearlesshappyness.life and hear about Katherine's life of Fearless Happyness!
/episode/index/show/fearlesshappyness/id/36045940