Men in the Arena with Matt Kovatchis & MD

In this conversation, Matt and MD explore the complexities of emotions, particularly focusing on sadness, love, and anger. They discuss the societal pressures surrounding these emotions and the challenges of expressing them. The dialogue delves into the illusion of control, self-worth, and the importance of leading by example in fostering love and understanding. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they highlight the journey of emotional regulation and the significance of empathy in relationships.Learn more about Matt here: https://www.mattkovatchis.com

In this episode of 'The Arena,' hosts Matt Kovatchis and MD welcome back Tori (Peyton) Wilson, a mental health advocate and founder of the 'Keep Growing Pod.' Tori shares her transformative journey from hitting rock bottom due to an eating disorder to becoming a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles. She emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and the need for personal growth, encouraging listeners to identify areas in their lives where they can improve. Tori's candid reflections on her faith and mental health advocacy highlight the complexities of recovery, illustrating that healing is not a linear process but rather a journey filled with ups and downs.Throughout the conversation, Tori discusses her experiences with mental health, the challenges of societal expectations regarding body image, and the significance of community support. She also touches on the importance of intuitive eating and how to navigate the emotional aspects of food relationships. Tori's insights serve as a reminder that healing is possible and that embracing one's individuality can lead to a more fulfilling life. The episode concludes with Tori expressing her pride in surrendering to a higher purpose and living authentically, inspiring listeners to do the same.Learn more about Tori: https://www.instagram.com/growithtori/Learn more about Matt: www.mattkovatchis.com

BC Serna is a heart-led leader, coach, mentor, content creator, entrepreneur, and TedX Speaker.He shares his journey of self-discovery, purpose, and the importance of emotional expression. He discusses the challenges of navigating spirituality and masculinity in today's world, emphasizing the need for honesty and vulnerability. BC also highlights the role of storytelling and content creation in making an impact, while reflecting on the legacy he wishes to leave behind.Learn more about BC: https://bcserna.com/Learn more about Matt: https://www.mattkovatchis.com

In this conversation, Michelle McKenna shares her journey of faith, authenticity, and self-discovery. She discusses the challenges of expressing her faith in a world that often judges based on social media personas. Michelle emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and how her faith has evolved through personal struggles and relationships. The discussion also touches on the significance of helping others and the transformative power of community and spirituality.Follow Matt: https://www.mattkovatchis.comFollow Michelle: https://www.instagram.com/michmckenna/

Natalie Bell shares her journey as a multi-passionate individual, discussing her experiences in nursing, event hosting, and content creation. She reflects on the lessons learned from her upbringing about love and relationships, the importance of trusting one's journey, and the complexities of grief associated with lost relationships. Natalie emphasizes the significance of vulnerability, the challenges of maintaining an open heart after heartbreak, and the traits she values in an ideal partner. The discussion also touches on societal pressures regarding relationships and the misconceptions surrounding love and success.Learn more about Natalie: https://www.instagram.com/nataliebell9/Learn more about Matt: https://www.mattkovatchis.com

In this conversation, Casey Cornelius shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leading voice on healthy masculinity. He discusses the importance of emotional expression, the impact of fraternity, and the need to unlearn harmful societal rules. Casey emphasizes that choices reflect priorities and highlights the traits of an ideal man, including responsibility, humility, and caring for others. The discussion also touches on the balance between stoicism and emotional expression, advocating for a spectrum of emotional responses. Ultimately, Casey expresses pride in his family and the importance of vulnerability in fostering connection and growth.Learn about Casey's work: www.forcollegeforlife.comLearn about Matt's work: www.mattkovatchis.com

In this conversation, Peter Ahn shares his journey as a sales performance coach and his experiences navigating identity, authenticity, and emotional expression. He discusses the importance of genuine human connections in sales, how his cultural background influenced his emotional intelligence, and the therapeutic aspects of his work in sales. Peter emphasizes the need for authenticity in both personal and professional realms, the challenges of balancing personal values with business demands, and the significance of building trust in relationships. He also reflects on his aspirations as a husband and father, highlighting the importance of creating a loving environment for his family.In this conversation, Peter Ahn shares his journey as a sales performance coach and his experiences navigating identity, authenticity, and emotional expression. He discusses the importance of genuine human connections in sales, how his cultural background influenced his emotional intelligence, and the therapeutic aspects of his work in sales. Peter emphasizes the need for authenticity in both personal and professional realms, the challenges of balancing personal values with business demands, and the significance of building trust in relationships. He also reflects on his aspirations as a husband and father, highlighting the importance of creating a loving environment for his family.Learn more about Matt's work here: https://www.mattkovatchis.comLearn more about Peter here: https://www.peterahn.com/

In this conversation, celebrity fitness trainer Hector Regalado discusses the importance of identity, purpose, and service in personal training and life. He emphasizes the need for consistency, humility, and the ability to adapt in order to achieve personal and professional growth. Hector shares insights on building a brand, navigating relationships, and the significance of delivering truth with love. He highlights the transformative journey individuals undergo when they commit to change and the challenges they face in letting go of their past selves.Follow Matt: https://www.mattkovatchis.comFollow Hector: https://www.instagram.com/trainwithhec/

In this conversation, Matt and MD explore the complexities of mental health, particularly the challenges individuals face when asking for help. They discuss the underlying fears and shame that often prevent people from seeking support, the importance of accountability in relationships, and the balance between independence and isolation. The dialogue emphasizes the need for deeper connections and vulnerability in conversations, ultimately encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences with seeking help and building community.View on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@Men_in_the_ArenaLearn more about Matt's work here: https:www.mattkovatchis.com

In this conversation, Matt and MD explore the themes of regret, purpose, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of navigating life choices, overcoming fear, and finding joy in the journey. The dialogue emphasizes self-discovery, the role of relationships, and the balance between freedom and companionship. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to live authentically and embrace change while seeking clarity in their life goals.

Madeline Kivett is a college student at Winthrop University and a mental health advocate through her volunteer work with NAMI and Instagram Page Yourmentalhealthisapriority that has amassed more than 60,000 followers. She’s the first EVER guest to return for a second time.She vulnerably shares her journey of overcoming personal struggles with anxiety and depression. She discusses the importance of community, acceptance, and the role of social media in fostering positive mental health conversations. Madeline emphasizes the significance of language in discussing mental health and how vulnerability can lead to deeper connections. She reflects on her growth and the ongoing challenges faced by individuals in understanding and addressing mental health issues on college campuses.

In this candid conversation, Matt and MD reconnect after a hiatus, discussing the challenges and impacts of podcasting on their personal growth. They explore themes of love, service, and spirituality, reflecting on how their experiences and guests have shaped their understanding of humanity and fulfillment. The dialogue delves into the complexities of faith, the role of authority, and the challenges of living a life rooted in love and compassion. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of authenticity and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.

Dr. Bisleen Attli is a mental health focused and CBT-certified naturopathic doctor and TedX speaker - which is a fancy way of saying she bridges the world of psychology and physiology to promote mental health and brain health.Bisleen shares her personal journey with mental health, discussing the impact of bullying, self-image, and the importance of environment. She emphasizes the ability to change through neuroplasticity and the significance of identifying limiting beliefs. Dr. Attli advocates for holistic approaches to mental health, including nervous system regulation and simple, consistent wellness strategies. The discussion also touches on the dangers of overconsumption in a fast-paced society and the importance of finding stillness for creativity and personal growth.

Austin Becker is a Professional Skier, Podcaster, creative director and entrepreneur. He’s also a mental health advocate - inspired by his own mental health challenges.Austin Becker shares his profound journey through mental health challenges, childhood trauma, addiction, and recovery. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, the impact of his past experiences, and how they shaped his advocacy work. Austin discusses his struggles with addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the lessons he learned along the way. He highlights the significance of rebuilding relationships and the pride he feels in giving others a voice through his podcast.

Nicki Joiner is an award-winning entrepreneur and dynamic career readiness speaker dedicated to helping students navigate their future careers with confidence and clarity. With a background in corporate recruiting and a Master’s degree in Student Affairs, she brings a unique blend of industry insight and higher education expertise to every talk.In this conversation, Nicki shares her journey from higher education to corporate recruiting and ultimately to becoming a career readiness speaker. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, the complexities of happiness, and the value of aligning personal values with career choices. Nikki emphasizes the need for students to explore various career paths while being realistic about their skills and market demands. Through her experiences, she highlights the significance of validating feelings and the lessons learned from both personal and professional challenges.

Brittany Richmond is a former counselor turned award-winning youth mental health speaker. She speaks to thousands of students throughout the country on mental health and anxiety.Brittany Richmond, a former counselor and youth mental health speaker, shares her journey with anxiety and how it has shaped her life and career. She discusses the importance of being open about mental health struggles, the role of acceptance in managing anxiety, and the need for connection and communication among young people. Brittany emphasizes the significance of forgiveness and gratitude in healing and encourages listeners to create spaces for open dialogue about emotions.

Dean Lauvina is a luxury real estate agent and owns the page Deanchicagoliving, where he famously highlights properties in Chicago to a following of more than 300,000 people.Dean Lauvina shares his journey from a traditional upbringing to becoming a successful luxury real estate agent in Chicago. He discusses the challenges of navigating family expectations, the impact of social media on his career, and the importance of authenticity in pursuing one's passions. Dean also highlights inspiring stories from his community and reflects on the fulfillment and challenges of his work in real estate.

Chaz Donati is a Sales Manager, mental health activist, hybrid athlete, and a recovering sports betting addict.Chaz Donati shares his profound journey through gambling addiction, detailing the early signs, the impact on relationships, and the challenges of recovery. He discusses the silent nature of gambling addiction, the societal implications of sports betting, and the importance of community support. Chaz reflects on his rock bottom moment, the role of his dog in saving his life, and his ongoing efforts to rebuild his life and find purpose beyond gambling. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of addiction and the importance of mental health advocacy.

Britt Frank, MSW, LSCSW, SEP, is an author, speaker, and educator, and trauma specialist. She received her B.A. from Duke University and her MSW from the University of Kansas, where she is an award-winning adjunct professor. She speaks and writes widely about emotional wellness, leadership, and performance.Britt shares her journey from trauma and addiction to becoming a trauma specialist and educator. She discusses the importance of understanding the root causes of pain, the role of the brain in motivation, and the significance of micro yes moments in creating momentum. Britt emphasizes the need for self-compassion that does not equate to permission to avoid challenges, and she highlights the necessity of suffering for personal growth. The discussion also touches on finding one's North Star and the importance of living in alignment with personal values.

Chelsea Linge is a transformation coach, entrepreneur, and the Co-Founder of Build the Bridge, an 8-week small group coaching cohort designed for leaders who want to scale their clarity, impact, and joy.Chelsea shares her transformative journey from a restrictive upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur and transformational coach. She discusses the importance of trusting one's intuition, the evolution of her relationship with money, and the nuances of freedom and joy in life. Chelsea emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not just about freedom but also about creative expression and serving others. The conversation highlights the significance of choosing love and joy in everyday life, and how these choices shape our experiences and relationships.