How Did You Get Here?

In this conversation, Maya Kruger and Marc Kantor delve into the complexities of addiction, the role of an interventionist, and the personal experiences that shape their understanding of recovery. Marc shares insights into the intervention process, the challenges faced when working with adolescents, and the impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior. They discuss the importance of self-care, the influence of technology on our lives, and reflections on midlife and personal growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the courage to seek help in times of crisis.Marc Kantor can be reached by phone or text at 202-390-2273 or by email atmarc@southfloridaintervention.com. Follow Marc Kantor on social media @helpforaddiction.TakeawaysAn interventionist helps families in crisis situations related to addiction or mental health.Interventions are not about shame or blame, but about guiding individuals to seek help.The process of intervention involves preparing families and creating impact letters to convey feelings.Adolescents can be particularly challenging to intervene on due to their defiance and emotional struggles.Personal experiences with addiction can shape one's understanding and approach to helping others.Detoxing in a treatment center is often recommended for effective recovery.Childhood trauma can have lasting effects on mental health and coping mechanisms.Navigating adulthood involves confronting fears and embracing personal growth.Midlife can prompt reflections on life choices and future aspirations.Rest and self-care are essential, yet often neglected in a fast-paced world.Technology can create barriers to genuine rest and connection.

In this episode, Maya Kruger reflects on the theme of shame, particularly as it relates to the holiday season. She shares a personal story about feeling shame after being stood up for a professional opportunity, exploring how shame can be protective but ultimately unhelpful. Maya discusses the impact of comparison during the holidays and encourages listeners to challenge their feelings of shame, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and understanding that external judgments do not define one's worth.

In this conversation, Maya goes home to Israel for the first time in more than 3 years.. She explores the therapeutic process as a journey of integrating past selves. She uses the metaphor of a bus to illustrate how clients can collect and welcome parts of themselves that have been left behind, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and healing in therapy.https://www.overturetherapy.com

In this episode, Maya Kruger interviews Dr. Riva Preil, a pelvic floor physical therapist, who shares her journey into the field and the critical role pelvic floor therapy plays in women's health. Dr. Preil discusses the common issues women face postpartum, such as sexual dysfunction and incontinence, and emphasizes the importance of pelvic floor therapy in addressing these challenges. She highlights the emotional and physical aspects of therapy, advocating for women to seek help and not suffer in silence. The conversation also touches on the societal pressures women face regarding their bodies and the importance of self-care and patience during the postpartum period. Dr. Preil's passion for her work and dedication to empowering women through education and therapy is evident throughout the discussion.--Riva Preil, PT, DPT, WCS, BCB-PMD, CLT  Riva is a leading pelvic floor physical therapist. She treats women with various pelvic floor disorders including dyspareunia, interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, pudendal neuralgia, constipation, incontinence, prenatal and postpartum conditions, pelvic organ prolapse, and chronic pelvic pain. Riva also treats pediatric bladder and bowel dysfunction. She is a Board Certified Specialist in Women’s Health Physical Therapy (WCS), and she received biofeedback certification in treating pelvic floor dysfunction from BCB-PMD. She is also a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) through the Academy of Lymphatics, allowing her to treat individuals who experience upper and/or lower extremity swelling. She is also trained in Craniosacral Therapy and Visceral Mobilization through the Barral Institute. Riva is the author of This Inside Story: The Woman’s Guide to Lifelong Pelvic Health, available on her website (revitalizephysicaltherapy.com). She is a co-host of the EmpowHer podcast, which explores women’s physical and mental health. She is extremely passionate about her work and looks forward to helping many along their healing journeys!Email: riva@revitalizephysicaltherapy.com. Website: revitalizephysicaltherapy.com. Instagram handle: revitalizepelvichealth. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2fN7UO3lvj6jcfCTZvzFlQFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/revitalizephysicaltherapy

Brenda Zane is a highly recognized family advocate, TEDx Speaker, Mayo Clinic Certified Health Coach and podcast host whose career and personal transformation have shaped her unique impact on families and communities. After a 20+ year career in marketing and advertising, working with Fortune 500 brands like Nike, PepsiCo, Starbucks and Microsoft, Brenda made a life-changing decision at 50 to dedicate herself to supporting parents navigating the complexities of substance misuse and mental health issues in their children. In 2020, she co-founded Hopestream Community, a global 501c3 nonprofit organization. Brenda's personal journey includes nearly losing her oldest son to multiple fentanyl overdoses, which fuels her passion to help others.Today, Brenda combines her strategic expertise with hard-won wisdom to help parents of teens and young adults (ages 12-29) use evidence-based strategies to support their children through substance use and mental health challenges. Drawing from both research and the trenches of her own family's recovery journey, she compassionately guides parents toward approaches that strengthen connection, reduce harm, and motivate healthier lives for themselves and their kids.LINKS: Listen to the Hopestream podcast (http://hopestreamcommunity.org/hopestream-podcast)Join Hopestream's free, Limited Membership (https://members.hopestreamcommunity.org/plans/1875021?bundle_token=c71f8dbadcbf6434ab68a960276c0207&utm_source=manual) Browse Hopestream's free resources for concerned parents--Most parents feel powerless when their child's behavior spirals into substance misuse and risky choices. Brenda Zane's extraordinary journey from a thriving marketing career to the brink of despair reveals the truth behind why even "successful" families can crumble—and how hope, boundaries, and expert help can rescue even the most broken.In this powerful episode, Brenda shares her raw and inspiring story of navigating her son's rollercoaster of addiction, dangerous episodes, and near-tragedy. You'll discover how seemingly perfect lives mask underlying pain, the importance of trusting your gut before it's too late, and the critical role of boundary-setting in protecting your child and your family. Brenda’s experience with wilderness therapy, residential treatment, and her eventual emergence as a parent advocate offers a blueprint for anyone facing the chaos of a loved one’s addiction.We break down: how early red flags often get ignored, the misconception that substances are the root problem—not just a symptom—and the pivotal moments that shifted her son’s trajectory from disaster to recovery. Brenda reveals insider strategies to support your child's mental health, deal with feelings of shame, and reclaim hope amid overwhelming circumstances.This isn’t just a story; it’s a call to action for parents feeling helpless and alone. If you're tired of feeling powerless, confused, or blamed, this episode will arm you with the courage and clarity to navigate the storm. Perfect for any parent or caregiver desperate for hope, understanding, and practical steps.Brenda Zane, a former ad executive turned advocate, survivor, and mentor, now dedicates her life to helping families like yours find their way back from the brink. Her story shows that even in our darkest moments, healing and transformation are possible—and you are not alone.

In this heartfelt conversation, Maya Kruger and Lacey Tezino explore the complexities of motherhood, loss, and identity. Both women share their experiences as motherless daughters and the impact of their relationships with their mothers on their own parenting. Lacey discusses her unconventional upbringing and the challenges of navigating selflessness and self-care. The conversation delves into the importance of therapy, racial identity, and the legacy of mother-daughter relationships, emphasizing the need for open conversations and understanding in healing and growth.Lacey Tezino is a mother of three, mental health advocate , and founder of Passport Journeys, a platform supporting mother-daughter healing. After losing her mother, Lacey turned to therapy, reflection, and storytelling to navigate grief while parenting young children. Her work centers on generational healing, emotional honesty, and helping women do the brave work of healing while raising the next generation.https://motherdaughtersupport.com/⁠

Join Maya Kruger as she chats with Beth Warren, a celebrated nutritionist and mother of six, about the complex dance between food, emotions, and self-care. Beth opens up about her path from a food-loving child to a nutrition expert, highlighting the significance of emotional eating and societal body image pressures. Amidst the deep discussions, they share a chuckle over the infamous "Shiva cookies," those dry, comforting treats that somehow find their way into our lives during tough times. Tune in for practical tips and heartfelt stories that inspire a balanced approach to health and well-being.You can Beth Warren at ⁠NourishByBeth.com⁠Instragram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/nourishedbybeth⁠TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@nourishedbybeth⁠

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, psychotherapist Melissa Ellis shares her journey as a Jewish therapist in LA, focusing on the intersection of mental health, spirituality, and motherhood. She discusses the importance of self-care, the generational patterns of guilt, and the challenges of navigating identity as a mother. Melissa emphasizes the need for community support, the impact of social media on self-image, and the significance of surrendering to the healing process. The conversation highlights the complexities of motherhood, the importance of emotional acceptance, and the journey of finding one's true self amidst societal expectations.

In this conversation, Maya Kruger explores the complex emotions surrounding the holidays, particularly for those who may feel estranged or unsupported. She emphasizes the often-overlooked aspect of anger as a valid and productive emotion that can signal deeper issues and drive positive change.maya@overturetherapy.com

In this insightful episode, Maya Kruger engages with Maya Feller, a registered dietitian and founder of Maya Feller Nutrition, to explore the intersection of nutrition, culture, and personal well-being. Maya Feller shares her journey from experimental theater to dietetics, emphasizing a patient-centered approach that respects individual lived experiences. The discussion delves into the challenges of diet culture, the importance of cultural foodways, and the societal pressures surrounding body image. Maya Feller advocates for a holistic view of nutrition that includes emotional and cultural dimensions, encouraging listeners to embrace their heritage foods while navigating modern dietary challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between food, culture, and health.Keywordsnutrition, cultural perspectives, healthy eating, race, class, dietary hierarchyAbout Maya Feller:Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, founder of Brooklyn-based Maya Feller Nutrition, is a registered dietitian nutritionist, author of Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World (goop Press, January 24, 2023), and host of YouTube “Where Wellbeing Meets Flavor.”https://mayafellernutrition.com/https://www.instagram.com/mayafellerrd/https://mayafellernutrition.com/newsletter/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy_DdOEnyk_qWEv6zOsVtTAhttps://www.pinterest.com/MayaFellerNutrition/

In this conversation, Alaska Ogden, a depth psychotherapist, shares her unique journey into the field of psychology, emphasizing her unconventional methods and focus on the unconscious. She discusses her chaotic upbringing, the impact of her mother's mental health struggles, and her experiences with homelessness as a teenager. Alaska reflects on the importance of self-love, the healing power of presence, and the role of grief in transformation. The conversation also touches on motherhood, the search for identity, and the significance of creating space for all parts of oneself to heal. Through her insights, Alaska offers a profound exploration of the complexities of mental health and the journey of becoming oneself.About Alaska:Alaska Ogden, is a depth-oriented psychotherapist, ritualist, and the founder of Myth & Marrow, a private practice rooted in somatic, Jungian, and soul-centered care. Her work weaves together the threads of myth, soul, ancestral lineage, ritual, and altered states of consciousness to support people in reclaiming lost parts of themselves and remembering who they came here to be. With a background in archetypal study, harm reduction, and psychedelic facilitation, Alaska brings a grounded, mythopoetic lens to the complexities of healing and transformation. Her approach honors personal and ancestral stories as maps that guide us back to wholeness. AlaskaOgden.com

In this conversation, Barbara Kanan, a registered drama therapist, discusses the cyclical nature of trauma, healing, and creativity. She shares her personal experiences as a member of the sandwich generation, navigating the challenges of caring for her mother with Alzheimer's while raising her daughters. The discussion emphasizes the importance of intergenerational wisdom, the role of creativity in healing, and the need for community support. Barbara highlights the significance of honoring cycles and rituals in life, the body's wisdom in processing emotions, and the transformative power of storytelling and art. The conversation concludes with a focus on future aspirations and the importance of finding joy amidst life's challenges.Chapters00:00 Understanding Trauma as a Natural Part of Life02:00 Navigating the Sandwich Generation09:35 The Cycles of Grief and Healing17:55 The Role of Creativity in Healing28:46 Embracing the Unknown in Life Transitions36:52 The Importance of Intergenerational Wisdom46:39 Finding Joy Amidst Pain55:59 Building Community and Self-Trust01:06:05 The Body's Role in Healing01:15:03 Reweaving Our Stories for Resilience01:21:54 Looking Ahead: Future AspirationsKeywordstrauma, healing, creativity, intergenerational wisdom, grief, community, self-trust, motherhood, resilience, life transitions

SummaryIn this episode of 'How Did You Get Here?', host Maya Kruger interviews Kurtis Girard, a mental health professional and interventionist. Kurtis shares his journey from early substance use to becoming a beacon of hope in the recovery community. He discusses the challenges of sobriety, the importance of personal responsibility, and the role of mentorship in his life. The conversation delves into the complexities of addiction, the impact of high-THC cannabis on youth, and the transformative power of recovery. Kurtis also reflects on his personal experiences with loss, love, and the anticipation of fatherhood.About Kurtis GirardKurtis Girard is Certified Interventionist & Behavioral Health Professional for 14 years. Struggling with addiction as a teenager and finding recovery at 19 years old. He is an advocate for recovery and the power of love, connection & kindness. He’s poured these principles into founding a new addiction treatment program for adults in Palm Springs, CA. Chapters00:01:09 Introduction to Kurtis Girard00:01:50 The Journey to Recovery00:02:45 Challenges and Insights in Sobriety00:04:18 Understanding Resistance in Treatment00:06:23 The Impact of High-THC Cannabis00:11:42 Personal Responsibility and Relationships00:19:08 Kurtis's Early Life and Substance Use00:26:15 The Turning Point to Sobriety00:33:26 Mentorship and Personal Growth00:47:46 Love, Loss, and Moving Forward

SummaryIn this episode, Maya Kruger reflects on her experiences as a mother, exploring themes of nostalgia, validation, and the challenges of overstimulation. She discusses the emotional complexities of parenting, the need for self-awareness, and the importance of setting boundaries to maintain personal well-being while supporting her children. Through her candid insights, Maya encourages listeners to consider their own experiences and the societal expectations placed on mothers.Chapters00:00 Navigating Motherhood and Nostalgia03:18 The Quest for Validation06:11 Overstimulation and Parenting BoundariesKeywordsmotherhood, validation, parenting, overstimulation, boundaries, self-awareness, emotional health, kids, personal growth, family dynamics

SummaryIn this conversation, Maya Kruger and Stephanie Mara delve into the complexities of eating behaviors, particularly focusing on binge eating and the somatic approach to understanding these behaviors. They explore how trauma, neurodivergence, and cultural influences shape our relationships with food and body image. The discussion emphasizes the importance of safety, both in the body and in relationships, and how generational trauma can perpetuate unhealthy eating patterns. Stephanie shares insights on the somatic eating method, which prioritizes body awareness and emotional regulation over traditional dieting approaches. The conversation concludes with reflections on self-discovery and the journey towards a healthier relationship with food and body.About Our Guest:Stephanie Mara Fox, PhD in progress, MA, CMBEC, CHC, CYT, is a Somatic Nutritional Counselor and Mentor with a Master’s Degree in Somatic Psychotherapy. She is the creator of Somatic Eating®, a body-oriented, sensation focused therapeutic approach to eating. She’s supported women, coaches, and wellness professionals all over the world, helping them to heal from disordered eating patterns, binge eating, emotional eating, chronic dieting, and body image concerns. She has been working for over the past decade to guide women in feeling empowered in their relationship with their food and body. Stephanie is published in the International Body Psychotherapy Journal, featured in Somatic Psychotherapy Today, VoyageDenver, Authority Magazine, and the Nutritional Wellness Summit and Somatic Healing Super Summit. She has supervised thousands of coaches, counselors, wellness practitioners, and therapists. Stephanie is on a mission to guide others into a safe and regulated relationship with food so they can go out and create their Satiated Life.  5-part Somatically Transform Your Emotional Eating Experiences: https://www.stephaniemara.com/subscribeWebsites: https://www.stephaniemara.com/https://www.somaticeating.com/Chapters00:00 Understanding the Fight or Flight Response in Eating Behaviors02:59 The Somatic Eating Method: A New Approach05:41 The Impact of Trauma and Neurodivergence on Eating08:46 Cravings as Body Information11:53 Binge Eating: A Protective Measure15:01 The Role of Safety in Eating Behaviors18:06 Generational Trauma and Food Relationships21:02 Cultural Influences on Body Image and Eating23:55 The Intersection of Body Image and Safety27:05 Finding Neutrality in Somatic Work29:42 The Role of Family and Generational Patterns32:44 Exploring GLP-1s and Body Image35:50 The Complexity of Body Image and Self-Worth39:05 Navigating Relationships and Food Choices41:43 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing44:52 Closing Thoughts on Food, Body, and SafetyKeywordssomatic eating, binge eating, trauma, body image, cravings, generational trauma, safety, neurodivergence, intuitive eating, food relationships

You can reach Maya at: https://www.overturetherapy.comSummary:Join Maya Kruger in this thought-provoking episode of "Themes of the Week" as she explores the intricate dynamics of emotional protection and the unseen audience in our lives. Discover how past traumas create emotional barriers, likened to a "sleeping bag," that shield us from pain but also limit our capacity for joy and connection. Maya also delves into the concept of performing for an internalized audience, urging listeners to reclaim their authenticity and live for themselves. Tune in for insights and strategies to unzip your emotional barriers and silence the critics in your mind.

Find Maya at: https://linktr.ee/overturetherapyFind Peter Lazar at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/peter-e-lazar-rye-ny/183357SummaryIn this conversation, Peter Lazar and Maya Kruger explore the complexities of grief, loss, and resilience, particularly in the context of suicide and its impact on families. They discuss the challenges of navigating faith and spirituality after loss, the importance of parenting through trauma, and the role of technology in modern relationships. The conversation also touches on personal stories of resilience and the transformative power of music in healing.Chapters00:00 Navigating Grief and Loss01:59 Understanding Suicide and Its Impact07:50 Faith, Forgiveness, and Jewish Perspectives13:41 Reconnecting with God and Spirituality16:44 Coping with Death and Mourning Rituals19:36 Dreams, Memories, and the Afterlife23:56 Parenting Through Trauma and Resilience29:45 The Role of Technology in Modern Parenting33:29 The Journey of Divorce and Co-Parenting39:19 Family Resilience and Personal Stories45:19 Music, Healing, and Personal TransformationPeter Lazar is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with 30 years of experience in mental health and addictions treatment. In addition to maintaining a private psychotherapy practice in New York City and Westchester County, NY, as Clinical Director, Peter provides clinical and ethics oversight for Adventure Recovery clinicians and guides, and works with the executive team on clinical training, programming, and development. Over the course of his career, Peter has served as a clinician at Silver Hill Hospital and Hall-Brooke/St. Vincent’s Behavior Health. Peter worked for several years in marketing and business development in mental health residential treatment space, and is the former chair of the NY Provider Liaison Association. He recently served on the leadership and clinical teams at Freedom Institute. Peter has been a visiting lecturer at Columbia University Medical Center—Addiction Rounds, Boston College, Adelphi University’s Graduate Schools of Social Work, and the Institute for Addiction Studies at the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence. He also served as adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. He lives in Westchester County, NY, with his wife and their rescue dog, Izzy; they have two beautiful young adult children.

SummaryIn this reflection, Maya Kruger explores the complex relationship between parental influence and personal healing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing parental flaws without blame. She connects this to the phenomenon of radical transformation in individuals, suggesting that such shifts often stem from unmet psychological needs rather than dormant identities. The discussion encourages listeners to seek clarity in their own narratives and build resilience against external influences.Chapters00:00 Understanding Parental Influence and WoundingKeywordsparental influence, healing, radical transformation, identity, psychological needs, self-compassion, clarity, generational wounds

You can find Maya Kruger at: https://www.overturetherapy.comYou can Briana McWilliam at: https://brianamacwilliam.com/SummaryIn this conversation, Maya Kruger and Brianna McWilliam explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, attachment styles, and the impact of generational trauma on personal growth. Brianna shares her journey through grief, healing, and the transformative power of spirituality and plant medicine. They discuss the importance of self-discovery, emotional intelligence, and the challenges of finding healthy relationships. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding one's life themes and the ongoing process of personal evolution.Chapters00:00 Reflections on Romantic Relationships and Self-Perception02:53 The Journey of Attachment and Personal Growth05:44 Navigating Grief and Finding Love08:50 The Impact of Childhood on Adult Relationships11:51 Celibacy and Self-Discovery14:46 Plant Medicine and Healing Trauma17:59 Spirituality and Intergenerational Healing31:30 Embodiment and Self-Discovery34:12 The Transformative Power of Plant Medicine36:10 Understanding Generational Trauma41:05 The Impact of Attachment Styles45:57 Finding Love and Self-Acceptance51:43 Exploring Energies and Emotional Intelligence54:41 Life Themes and Personal Growth58:46 Future Aspirations and Self-ReflectionKeywordsrelationships, attachment, generational trauma, healing, spirituality, plant medicine, personal growth, emotional intelligence, self-discovery, love

SummaryIn this reflection, Maya Kruger explores the themes of confirmation bias and the importance of embracing blank spaces for creativity. She discusses how individuals often prioritize being right over feeling better, leading to a cycle of negative self-confirmation. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for boredom and empty spaces in life to foster creativity and personal growth, encouraging listeners to reflect on their habits and make room for new ideas.Chapters00:00 The Desire to Be Right Over Feeling Better02:57 Embracing Blank Spaces for CreativityKeywordsconfirmation bias, creativity, self-awareness, personal growth, boredom, mental health, emotional safety, therapy, self-discovery, mindfulness