Off The Cuff with Danny LoPriore

The NFL is a tough business with tough people who understand how to navigate the ups and downs of the game. Some days you’re on top of the world and then within the blink of an eye, your career is over and you’re just another citizen. For some, a regular life without the glitz and glam is an easy transition while others struggle away from the spotlight and spend countless days and years looking for their next phase, their next challenge, their next reason why.  “I’m glad that it (return to football), never worked out in any capacity because now what I’m doing is what I love.” – (Marques), 12:01 My guest today knows how it feels to be in the NFL, flying high in a space where only the most elite athletes soar. He also knows what it’s like to come crashing down. Marques Ogden is a man who has lived many lives, and he has astutely used each one to build what now stands as a model story of perseverance and success. After a successful stint in the NFL, he found his life spiraling out of control, but unlike many others who never gained control, he did. Ogden did and his journey from the depths of despair to the highest highs of success is truly amazing.  “Wherever Prime goes, the media, the stars, all that, the lights follow. That’s just the way it is.” (Marques), 14:00 Today, Ogden sits down with us to discuss his views on mental health and professional sports, life as an NFL player, growing up with an older brother who is an NFL legend, and how he repositioned himself to become one of the most in-demand public speakers in the world. It’s an incredible conversation with a man who is bent on helping others reach their highest level. “A lot of athletes live for their sport and when that sport is gone you don’t know what to do next and that’s how I felt when I lost football.” – (Marques), 19:25 “When I see people in any job, I don’t ever judge, I don’t ever assume, I don’t ever say that’s all they can do.” – (Marques), 34:35 In this episode: (3:47) – Mental health and the NFL. (5:10) – Marques discusses his divorce and therapy. (6:45) – How the NFL helped Marques during his financial storm.  (8:20) – Players are stigmatized surrounding their healthcare. (9:40) – Marques laments the challenges older players face in terms of healthcare.  (12:05) – Marques expresses gratitude about his journey. (16:00) – Marques tips his hat to coaches on all levels.  (17:52) – Marques discusses the mental strain that comes with physical limitations. (20:03) – Andre the Giant and his struggles are discussed by Marques.  (22:05) – Marques discusses his financial habits while playing in the NFL.  (23:00)  - Marques reveals the rationale behind his 150 tattoos.  (24:00) – The danger of drinking and tattooing.  (27:58) – Marques discusses uncomfortable times playing center.  (29:20) – How stem cell treatment has helped Marques and his health.  (30:10) – The things Marques misses and the things he doesn’t. (32:10) – Being selfish taught Marques a business lesson.  (34:58) – The importance of knowing the entire story. (38:16) – Danny discusses the need to have a hustle and the danger of burnout.  (39:27) – Lessons learned from football and how Marques uses that in business.  (41:52) – Dark days after Marques divorced his wife. (43:25) – Marques purchases his dream home, six months after being in a dilapidated apartment. (44:35) – Marques encourages listeners to pursue what they want while remaining astute.  Our Guest Growing up in a single-parent home with a father who inspired perseverance and fairness, Marques Ogden learned how to define his values and set goals. Ogden attended Howard University from 1998-2002 where he played Division I football. Ogden then followed his dream and his brother Jonathan’s footsteps, eventually getting drafted into the NFL in 2003. Overall, he played for 5 years as an offensive lineman with the Titans, Bills, Ravens, and Jaguars. Even during the off-season, Ogden helped train football players in Europe, both physically and mentally.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  Marques Ogden https://marquesogden.com/ https://www.instagram.com/marquesogden/ https://www.facebook.com/MarquesOgdenSpeaker/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marquesogden  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbROb_i2Ef3mr6OFoBOFjuQ

Mental health is a conversation that too many times people aren’t willing to have. It’s a real thing and even though people tend to ignore it, having those conversations, difficult though they are, is necessary. Contrary to popular belief, participants don’t have to be adults to weigh in, give an opinion, and seek help because mental health also impacts youngsters, and not addressing their fears and concerns can have a lingering impact on their lives.  ”I drink socially or occasionally, but what I really had to change was the environment around me.” – (Ross), 4:51 My guest today is Ross Szabo, a leading mental health advocate and a man who is working tirelessly to change the perceptions around mental health. His work includes how we approach it from a classroom dynamic as his vision calls for teachers, school districts, and leaders around the nation to begin building programs that address the very real phenomenon at an early age. He’s a pioneer in this field and continues to champion the needs of children through his groundbreaking programs and curriculums.  “If I knew what panic disorder was in the sixth grade it would’ve been a lot easier for me to come forward and talk about it.” – (Danny), 18:43 Today, Ross discusses the challenges he faced as a child growing up in Pennsylvania, how those challenges impacted his life as well as his stance on how our nation should address mental health moving forward. Ross also shares several real-life experiences including the things he has seen during speaking engagements and the way those engagements have shaped his way of thinking.  “When it comes to students, everybody just wants to be seen and heard.” – (Ross), 27:38 If you’ve been wondering how to address the mental health issues of young people within your sphere, pull up a chair and listen to Ross as he shares the wisdom he’s seen and learned along the way. This is an incredible conversation about a topic whose time has definitely come. “Mental health isn’t just about emotions, it’s also relationships, it’s communication, it’s coping mechanisms.” – (Ross), 37:47 In This Episode: (1:59) – Ross dives into how for years, he self-medicated heavily. (2:52) – Ross discusses self-hate.  (4:03) – At the age of 22, Ross hits rock bottom.  (4:53) – The environment Ross was in was the biggest problem.  (5:12) – Ross discusses his teen suicide attempt.  (6:44) – Danny discusses the physical impact of mental health. (9:03) – Ross talks about how he deals with bad mental health days. (11:00) – Danny discusses his past relationship with alcohol.  (13:14) – Ross dives deep into addiction. (15:31) – Danny relives going to the mental hospital for the first time. (17:20) – How David Barlow and his book saved Danny. (19:35) – Ross talks about speaking to his mental challenges when he was in high school. (21:08) – Ross was a pioneer in the mental health space. (22:45) – Ross pitches the idea that classes should be taught on mental health.  (24:03) – Ross emphasizes the importance of teachers using their stories to help drive mental health awareness and healing. (26:06) – Ross discusses the ongoing challenges of youth mental health programs. (28:09) – Ross emphasizes the importance of having content with integrity. (30:35) – Mental health knows no race or gender boundaries. (33:45) – The broad spectrum of mental health.  (37:30) – Ross reveals eye-opening relationship statistics.  (40:08) – Not fitting in at American University.  (41:40) – Ross touches on his books. (42:43) – Young people, technology, and anxiety.  (43:18) – Ross discusses the differences between children of today and his day. (46:10) – Danny discusses what he wishes he had done with family trauma. (47:03) – Danny asks Ross about his views on using medicine for mental health.  (48:03) – Ross encourages listeners to do whatever constructive method works for them.  Our Guest Ross Szabo, Wellness Director at Geffen Academy (UCLA), dedicates over half his life to making mental health accessible. His book, "A Kids Book About Anxiety," featured in Oprah's Favorite Things List, reflects his belief that mental health education is as crucial as physical health. Szabo advocates for teaching brain development, vocabulary, coping skills, and building healthy relationships to protect our minds. Transparent about his mental health journey, he empowers others to address their challenges and live more fulfilling lives. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Ross Szabo https://rossszabo.com/about-ross/ https://www.instagram.com/rossszabo/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-szabo/ https://www.facebook.com/ross.szabo/

At some point all of our mental muscles are tested, some more than others, but everyone has a test that has come or is on the way. It could be a family tragedy for one person, a failed relationship, or business for another, or a dream that becomes a nightmare. Regardless of a person and their station in life, everyone will be given the opportunity to test their mental strength and fortitude. How they approach that situation and more importantly, how they emerge from it, tells the story. “I learned that you shouldn’t put things off until someday. If you’re going to do it, do it now.” – (Amy), 2:41 My guest today is Amy Morin. She’s a respected psychotherapist, author, and woman who had her mental muscles tested in some of the most unimaginable ways. At the tender age of 23 she lost her mother and a few years later, while only 26, her husband passed. Both losses were sudden, and both required her to summon vast amounts of mental strength to get to the other side. Today she goes deep and helps us understand how to cope with loss, build our mental muscle, and be brave enough to pick up and begin living life again.  “You can convince yourself of almost anything. Your body will respond to the way you talk to it.” – (Amy), 13:26 Life is a tough place to live, but being bold enough to continue living despite the curveballs and struggles that come your way makes it all the more rewarding. If you’ve been struggling with how you’re going to move forward and begin living again following a challenging experience, this episode is for you. “Change the channel in your brain by giving yourself a random thought.” – (Amy), 41:36 In this Episode: (3:10) – Writing helped her understand she could live anywhere. (6:07) – Imposter Syndrome and the job. (6:41) – The irony of falling apart while helping others put themselves back together.  (7:22) – Amy talks about how she lives with the pain of loss. (8:10) – Practical challenges after losing her husband.  (9:30) – The role her sister played in her recovery. (10:36) – Amy reveals she feels changed after the losses, but not broken.  (12:01) – Being a therapist helped Amy through her struggles. (14:48) – Amy speaks about the success of her TED talk.  (15:23) – How eulogizing her husband unleashed the public speaker inside. (18:15)- Meditation isn’t for everyone so don’t force it.  (20:00) – Mental health and social media.  (20:55) – Bad mental health advice and TikTok.  (22:20) – Amy cautions listeners not to be drawn in by therapists based on their social media following size.  (22:44) – Amy reveals that she has struggled with anxiety for most of her life.  (28:15) – Amy opens up about generational trauma and the impact it has on lives.  (29:02) – Amy on finding love after losing her husband.  (31:30) – Danny and the way he uses mental gymnastics to justify behaviors.  (35:30) – Amy conveys how lamenting the past can impact your present and future. (39:50) – Amy helps listeners overcome intrusive thoughts. (42:25) – Amy and how she helps others overcome their fear of failure. (46:38) – Accountability and bad habits. (53:14) – Fiction and mental health. Our Guest Amy Morin, a psychotherapist, faced early life challenges with the loss of her mother at 23 and husband at 26. Driven by personal adversity, she embarked on a journey to understand and cultivate mental strength. In 2013, she penned a letter outlining 13 habits that mentally strong individuals avoid, which gained viral traction and led to the publication of her first book. Today, Amy is a renowned author with six books, selling millions of copies globally. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Amy Morin https://amymorinlcsw.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymorinlcsw/  https://www.instagram.com/amymorinauthor/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/AmyMorinAuthor/

Everyone, regardless of what your life is about or where it leads you, enjoys a good meal during a night out. You can be a vegetarian or a meat lover to the extreme or someplace in between, but everyone loves a great meal at a nice place where their only duty is to feast on whatever gets placed before them. But what about the person behind the stove, on the grill, working hard in the kitchen? While we’re out there in the restaurant chowing down, living our best food dreams … what are they going through? “I’ve come to realize that I’ve put in over 30,000 hours behind a cutting board and that’s a lot of reps!” – Chef Brother Luck, (1:50) My guest today knows everything there is to know about a kitchen, creating a great meal, and bringing joy to diners. He also knows the hidden struggles a cook often faces. Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Chef Brother Luck. He’s hands down one of the most amazing cooks in the world and a man who understands what it takes to make it in life and the kitchen. His new book No Lucks Given: Life is Hard but There is Hope is a must-read and offers insights into how he made it and how you can do the same! “I grew up around pimps and hustlers, and drug dealers and those were the first people that gave me mentorship.” – Chef Brother Luck, (6:54) If you’re on the cusp, wondering how to make your next move your best move, asking yourself if you have what it takes, have a listen as Chef Brother Luck assures you that regardless of what others think, all you need is you! “Leadership and mentorship require trust and the only way you can gain trust is to be vulnerable and transparent.” – Chef Brother Luck, (36:30) In this episode: (2:39) – Brother’s relationship with his father.  (3:50) – Family life in the Bay Area.  (4:38) – Brother’s favorite stadium he likes to eat at.  (5:03) – The changing dynamics of being a chef.  (6:54) – Brother reveals that some of his first mentors were negative mentors.  (7:15) – The corner, hustle mentality is woven into his business approach.  (7:50) – Danny reveals his first mentor.  (8:26) – Exposure to other lifestyles helps Brother grow personally and professionally.  (9:33) – Culinary helped him become more confident. (10:25) – Brother and his approach to Bobby Flay. (11:40) – BBQ in 45 minutes. (13:30) – The importance of ratings for shows and their realities.  (15:08) – Mental health and kitchens.  (15:23) – Sucking it up in the kitchen and how the kitchen can break a person.  (15:44) – The industry calls the chef family but doesn’t treat them as such.  (16:10) – Mental health awareness is needed in the industry/kitchen.  (16:45) – Fear of failure is a part of every day for a kitchen owner. (20:10) – How the pandemic changed his business model.  (20:47) – Chefs are solution-oriented.  (21:16) – Brother and Imposter Syndrome.  (21:50) – Feeling out of place in Aspen.  (22:35) – The words of wisdom from Marcus Sanderson.  (24:00) – Brother and therapy.  (24:45) – Friends and family aren’t the best therapists. (29:40) – Weight loss, sobriety, and general health.  (31:07) – Brother and his new diet.  (31:50) – The journey from 285 to 225. (34:40) – The last battlefield is the kitchen.  (35:10) – The need to change the leadership style of the restaurant.  (37:00) – The restaurant business doesn’t love you back according to Brother.  (38:20) – All he knows is the kitchen and the cutting board.  (39:50) – The turning point and importance of seeing his view through.  (40:44) – Follow your heart, but know the road isn’t easy.  (41:20) – There’s no work-life balance … there’s only balance. (43:40) – Your decision is about more than you. Our Guest Chef Brother Luck, an acclaimed restaurateur from Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a renowned figure in the culinary world. With a James Beard nomination under his belt, Brother has also become a fan favorite on popular cooking shows like Top Chef, Chopped, and Beat Bobby Flay. He has been featured in various publications, including Food and Wine Magazine, and has made appearances on national television programs such as The Rachael Ray Show and The Today Show. Brother’s zeal for mentorship and creating a safe space for discussions about mental health is matched only by his dedication to inspiring large audiences on stage and online.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc  Chef Brother Luck  https://chefbrotherluck.com/ https://www.facebook.com/chefbrotherluck/  https://www.youtube.com/c/BrotherLuck https://www.linkedin.com/in/chefbrotherluck https://www.tiktok.com/@chefbrotherluck

Food is necessary in our lives. It helps us grow, heals us, fuels us and when consumed properly, brings us joy. But there are instances when food can be an instrument of destruction, causing us to live life far below the way it was meant to be lived. In the most extreme situations, food can actually shorten our lives if the wrong kinds and volumes are consumed … for the wrong reasons.  “I believe that we need to be playing, all day, every day.” – (Kim), 4:41 Today, I welcome Kim Shapira back to the show and we’ll go deep into my relationship with food. Kim is an amazing woman who counsels patients on how to properly manage their consumption patterns and in the process, take control of their lives. We’ll go into the dark corners and pull out the hidden pieces of my past that have made my relationship with what I eat, when I eat, and how much I eat, a challenge. “We don’t need to be thinking about what we’re going to be eating next Thursday, we need to focus on where we are right now, in this moment, right now.” (Kim), 7:00 “You need to always make sure your mind is in your body.” – (Kim), 23:25 Hey, listen, food is an essential part of life, but even more essential is how we manage it. If you’ve been struggling in this area and you’re ready to take control, I mean really take control, this is the show you’ve been waiting for. Pull up a chair and sit down at the table, for the right reasons and have a listen to the one and only Kim Shapira. “Your body is giving you signals all day long, it’s your job to honor them.” (Kim), 24:10 In this Episode: (2:44) – Danny discusses how he copes with things on the outside.  (3:30) – Danny shares why he thinks people follow him on social media.  (4:00) – The song that halts Danny’s work with children, goes from curse to blessing. (4:40) – Kim tells Danny that he’s working with the inner child of the people he comes into contact with.  (5:02) – Danny discusses his defense mechanism.  (5:25) – Danny opens up as to why he’s jealous of his parents’ generation.  (6:08) – Kim discusses The Flea Study. (6:40) – Kim says we’re all dealing with trauma on some level.  (7:10) – The need to raise vibrations. (7:40) – 15 minutes of laughter translates into two hours of pain-free time.  (8:20) – Danny still longs to work with children.  (8:40) – Kim advises Danny to see his audience as kids.  (9:24) – Danny discusses his home life as a child. (11:24) – Kims feels Danny needs to “love on” his inner child.  (12:10) – Kim discusses how you can have several marriages within a marriage.  (12:48) – Danny and the theory of life being an anthology.  (14:09) – Neck pain, phones, and the future of our bodies. (16:30) – Kim cautions Danny about his water intake. (17:50) – Danny opens up about his diet.  (21:34) – Ozempic performance and how it impacts Danny.  (22:00) – Rules for eating. (22:25) – Kim encourages Danny to practice grounding. (22:35) – Kim advises Danny to say three things he’s grateful for before he opens his eyes.  (23:52) – Do a body scan before eating.  (24:24) – If you don’t know where your mind is, that’s a problem for your body. (25:03) – Kim reveals that 47% of our day is on autopilot.  (27:40) – Kim encourages Danny to move away from using food as his comfort.  (30:24) – Focus on eating only when you’re hungry.  (30:45) – Danny has challenges with portion control.  (33:00) – There’s nothing wrong with loving food, but for the right reasons.  (33:12) – Kim asks Danny if he’s crushing food or if food is crushing him.  (33:34) – Danny’s admission about his relationship with food.  (34:00) – The three different ways Danny says I’m sorry to his inner child.  (34:30) – The power of self-compassion.  (36:04) – Kim reveals where hunger lives.  (37:07) – Calorie counting and body consistency.  (37:33) – Consistent eating tells your body it’s safe.  (38:22) – Danny makes a plea to his listeners.  (39:10) - Danny admits that his world revolves too much around food.  (40:08) – Kim challenges Danny to change his menu and volume.  (40:57) – Danny is in a bad food routine, by his own admission.  (44:04) – The inner child is cheering for us.  (44:35) – Your diet is the way you eat.  (44:52) – The need to get 10,000 steps per day.  (45:29) – The need to find joy in our journey. Our Guest  Kim Shapira M.S., R.D. is a celebrity dietitian, nutritional therapist, and author, with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Tulane University and a master’s degree in human Metabolism and Clinical Nutrition from Boston University. Kim has spent over 25 years helping people lose weight and keep it off (with a giant emphasis on keeping it off), both in her private Los Angeles practice, in hospitals, sports clinics, addiction centers and universities. When she's not helping her clients take back their relationship with food, she is a wife and mother of three children and three pups. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Kim Shapira https://www.kimshapiramethod.com/method https://instagram.com/kimshapiramethod https://www.facebook.com/kimshapiramethod/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-shapira/ https://www.tiktok.com/@kimshapiramethod

Bare-knuckle fighting is not for the faint of heart. It’s a tough sport and you have to be wired a little differently to step into a ring where you’re reliant on yourself, not a teammate or a coach on the sideline for success. Those rounds can seem like an eternity for a boxer, filled with intensity, blood, sweat, and tears. It’s a tough sport, ruled by tougher men, and one that’s on the rise in the global sports community.  “My father was like super-cool and taught me martial arts, so he was like my big brother more than my dad.” Lorenzo, (3:13) Today, I spend time talking to a man who stands atop the bare-knuckle fighting world, roundly recognized as the premier talent in that sport. He’s Lorenzo Hunt, also known as, “The Juggernaut” and one of the greatest fighters of this or any other generation. I sit down with him to discuss some of the struggles he’s had to overcome, his approach to life, his sport, and how he maintains a healthy mental state.  “I think that we really should take into consideration the mental health of our athletes more.” – Lorenzo, (6:22) This is a fascinating conversation and one that will undoubtedly inspire you to move to new heights in your life from both a physical and more importantly, a mental state. Both are integral parts of our lives and today, we tackle them head on with a man who only knows one direction … forward! “It doesn’t matter how you try to hurt someone, it’s going to hurt.” – Lorenzo, (13:34) “For the most part, my training is my therapy.” – Lorenzo, (30:24) In this Episode: (2:00) – Lorenzo has always been a fighter.  (2:13) – He was targeted by other kids and that was a trigger for him. (4:04) – Social anxieties caused him to go deep into his craft and become diverse.  (4:45) – Mental health wasn’t discussed in Lorenzo’s house. (5:50) – The correlation between mental and physical health.  (6:34) – Lorenzo shares his views on mental health evaluations for fighters.  (7:31) – The Mark Richman fight. (8:30) – Lorenzo discusses the danger of not being ready for a fight mentally.  (8:56) – Physically strong people are mentally strong people too according to Lorenzo.  (9:32) – Lorenzo reveals that he advocates for suicide prevention.  (9:54) – The enemy within is real according to Lorenzo.  (11:08) – Lorenzo takes no joy in hurting his opponent.  (12:32) – The switch to bare knuckle fighting is. (15:20) – Lorenzo in the ring and Lorenzo outside are two different people.  (16:55) – Paranoia and fight night.  (17:40) – Lorenzo explains why he’s always careful in social settings. (21:30) – Lorenzo laments the disrespect he’s received from some of his opponents.  (22:42) – The problems Lorenzo has with the city of Cleveland.  (26:03) – Opening up isn’t a sign of weakness. (28:28) – What Lorenzo said to himself after Richman knocked him down. (29:05) – Lorenzo feels no emotion during the fight which is a learned behavior.  (30:20) – Lorenzo reveals that he’s open to therapy. (31:58) – Lorenzo thinks everyone needs to find that one thing they love and do it for their own mental stability.  (33:36) – Lorenzo fights to stay away from where the enemy within lives. (34:10) – Advice for fighting the enemy within.  (37:36) – The surrealness of being a celebrity.  (38:00) – Lorenzo discusses his life and imposter syndrome.  (38:44) – When self-doubt begins to creep in. (42:31) – The importance of giving others a chance to see tomorrow. (43:15) – The loss that still haunts The Juggernaut.  (43:40) – The power of learning how you learn.  (44:44) – Even the misses are important to Lorenzo.  Our Guest  Born on September 9, 1982, Lorenzo Hunt began his combat sports journey in 2013 in Florida's MMA scene, turning pro after two years. Known as "The Juggernaut," he dominated in MMA promotions like RFC and Titan FC, all victories by knockout. Transitioning to bare-knuckle boxing, Hunt swiftly rose to the top of two divisions, elevating the sport. His presence guarantees an electrifying experience, from pre-fight buildup to press conferences and the bout itself. Confident in his pursuit, he aims to retire with both belts, leaving a trail of defeated opponents. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Lorenzo Hunt  https://www.juggernauthunt.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thejuggernauthunt/ https://www.facebook.com/teamlorenzohunt/ https://twitter.com/ZoHunt23

Mental health comes in all shapes, sizes, and both genders. About the actual diagnosis, that’s another variable. The diagnosis can come at any point in life and how a person deals with it moving forward, navigates the nuances and medications as well as any therapy plays a pivotal role in the life they’re able to create.  “The way I was before I started taking the medication, I don’t ever want to be that person again.” (Danny), 10:34 My guest today is a person who understands the challenges of mental health and how learning to maneuver is an ongoing occurrence. She’s Kelsey Darragh, a multi-talented, creative force unlike any I’ve ever met. Kelsey made time to stop by and discuss her mental challenges, the various forms of treatment she’s used and currently uses, dating and mental health, and much, much more! “I was getting tired of everyone saying it’s going to be alright. I was like I know it’s going to be alright, but when is it going to be alright?” – (Danny), 13:54 Mental health is challenging, but it’s even more challenging when it gets swept under the rug or ignored. Recognizing and receiving the help that’s available is life-changing and sets sufferers on a clear path to creating a life worth living. If you’ve been on the fence, wondering if you should move forward and get the help you need and deserve, this show is the one that will help move you into living your best life! “What do you do or where do you find yourself when everybody you’re supposed to go to help you can’t?” – (Kelsey), 15:30 In this episode: (3:12) – Danny’s experience with Lexapro. (4:54) – Kelsey goes into her late-life panic disorder diagnosis.  (5:40) – Danny opens up and shares his first panic attack.  (6:55) – Lexapro has been the medicine of choice for Kelsey since she was 17. (8:02) – Danny discusses his challenges with impulsiveness.  (9:40) – Kelsey and Danny share their Klonopin experiences. (11:05) – Danny warns about leaning on medication too much.  (12:35) – Danny and Kelsey share their views on various medications.  (13:32) – Danny reveals that his father had to shower him in his 20’s. (14:00) – Telling people it will be alright is useless.  (15:00) – Kelsey discusses how Lexapro impacts her sex drive.  (15:04) – Kelsey and ‘It’s All in Your Head’.  (16:09) – Orgasms become her drug of healing. (17:02) – Her journey through her sex profile and life.  (18:30) – Danny discusses being hypersexual as a teen. (20:55) – Mental health, dating, and marriage. (21:52) – Danny reveals that the past sex lives of partners can be challenging talk.  (23:47) – Kelsey discusses the importance of sex and mental health.  (24:44) – Heart palpitations and masturbation.  (25:48) – Age and polyamorous.  (26:52) – Kelsey and the funny sex story (32:20) – Kelsey and the prospects of being a mother and how a partner could make it challenging.  (33:50) – Danny gets honest about where he stands with children and his life.  (35:20) – The largest epiphany Danny has ever had.  (35:44) – You can’t keep up with the Joneses.  (35:55) – Instead of investing in things, Danny now invests in practicality.  (36:28) – Views on generational wealth. (38:20) – Danny discusses his current familial relationships. (40:00) – Kelsey takes a gratitude inventory and says she’s satisfied.  (41:01) – Creativity comes from boredom.  (41:35) – The conversation turns to porn. (44:25) – Kelsey talks about her short film and sex.  (45:10) – Kelsey discusses her book and why she thinks it did so well.  (46:24) – How TikTok helped drive book sales. Our Guest  Kelsey Darragh, a multifaceted creator, filmmaker, and author, transitioned from online content to impactful films as a documentary director and Executive Producer. Beyond her development work, she curates viral content on social media and hosts two top-ranking podcasts, focusing on "taboo" topics like social justice, sex, women's issues, and mental health. Resources & Links Off The Cuff with Danny LoPriore https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Kelsey Darragh https://www.kelseydarragh.com/ https://instagram.com/kelseydarragh https://www.youtube.com/user/kelseydarragh http://www.twitter.com/kelseydarragh

Reality television is a large part of our culture. It’s everywhere on every network and platform as viewers are drawn to the ability to see inside the lives of subjects as they live them. If you can name it, chances are reality television has seen it, and while it might seem all glitter and glamour, even reality television stars have problems. “The teacher, the Bachelorette, the Black Bachelorette, those are the three labels that people have associated with me.” – (Michelle), 30:04 My guest today is Michelle Young. Michelle was a participant in The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. Michelle has also dealt with a lifetime of challenges stemming from anxiety, a very real condition that can often cripple victims. Today, Michelle stops by to discuss how she copes with her situation, how being in the public eye impacted her life and anxiety, and how setting boundaries in her personal and professional life has helped her manage and overcome the inherent challenges. She also discusses her love for young children and why being a teacher will always be her passion. “When I’m at work I needed to be at work, so I’m Ms. Young.” – (Michelle), 26:43 Dealing with anxiety can be an enormous burden to carry and wearing the proverbial mask doesn’t make it any lighter. If you’ve been wondering how others make it through this challenge and need inspiration to help you do the same, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for! “My value does not decrease just because I’m not in a relationship.” – (Michelle), 41:07 In this episode: (3:53) – Growing up in Minnesota. (5:30) – How words impact your life. (7:38) – Michelle realizes that she has an anxiety disorder late in life.  (8:32) – Michelle discusses how physically sick her anxiety and mental health issues made her.  (9:15) – Michelle as a basketball player. (10:09) – The value of her athletic background.  (10:55) – Being on television was different but her anxiety didn’t impede her.  (11:40) – Michelle discusses her stint on reality television.  (12:25) – Overcoming anxiety is easier according to Michelle when others are depending on you.  (13:40) – Danny discusses his childhood family home dynamics. (15:10) – Michelle reveals that she misses being in the classroom with children. (16:20) – The impact of social media on children of today. (18:23) – Danny thinks parents will evolve and learn how to better handle children and social media.  (19:07) – The role of music in the future. (21:56) – Danny laments the potential impact of his technology trail. (22:52) – Danny loses his job over his provocative song.  (24:43) – The lingering impacts of social media. (25:14) – Michelle talks about life after reality television. (25:35) – Challenges on the job while doing reality television.  (27:20) – Setting boundaries at work and why it was important for Michelle.  (28:40) – Being a Black woman on The Bachelor and the weight of the role.  (29:19) – The challenge of racism in reality television.  (29:37) – Michelle discusses mental health and being in the public eye. (33:26) – Therapy was the way out for Michelle. (34:43) – Teachers always have to wear their masks, hiding their mental health issues. (37:15) – Danny and Michelle refuse to live with regrets.  (39:00) – How regrets and depression are connected. (41:18) – Good energy posts are what Michelle strives for. (44:31) – The financial challenges of teachers.  (46:11) – Why teachers should matter more.  (50:40) – Michelle shares her favorite part about being a teacher. Our Guest Michelle Young was a participant in The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. After receiving her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Bradley University in 2015, Michelle began her career as a 5th-grade teacher, she delivered engaging educational content and also spread her message of self-love and acceptance to the young mind she was molding. Before teaching, Michelle’s success was measured in the classroom and on the court. She showed her prowess in balancing the demands of her studies while making a name for herself as a Division I basketball player. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Michelle Young  https://www.instagram.com/michelleyoung/ https://www.facebook.com/michelleayoungofficial https://tiktok.com/@michelleyoung https://www.youtube.com/@michelleyoungofficial https://twitter.com/michelleyoung

There’s a lot of talk out there about OCD, what it is, who has it, and the way it impacts lives. It’s a challenging disorder and so many people navigate this space in life alone. That’s a sad reality, but what’s even sadder is that there are so many others who are open and willing to help them find their way through this mental maze and in the process, introduce them to a better life.  “You can be happy in multiple versions of your life.” – (6:53), Allison My guest today is Allison Raskin. She’s a New York Times best-selling author, a podcaster, a screenwriter, an admitted sufferer of OCD, and a staunch mental health advocate. Today, Allison stops by and shares her journey, and how she’s dealt with the challenges she faces while offering insights into how others can overcome whatever mental struggles they’re having in their lives. It’s an eye-opening conversation that sees her being transparent in a powerful way that will impact listeners regardless of where they are in their mental walk.  "I’m not a kid person; I’m an animal person.” – (21:35), Allison OCD is very real and it’s time we start having some very real conversations about this condition. It’s also time for sufferers to come out into the light and get the support they so desperately need. Today, we’ll offer that help in the form of Allison Raskin. It’s an incredible time with a dynamic, high-achieving woman. “OCD is such a misunderstood disorder.” (26:18), Allison “When I like me more, other people’s opinions of me don’t matter as much.” – (28:11), Allison In this episode: (1:35) – Allison shares an interesting perspective on the entertainment industry. (4:50) – Danny discusses losing his fear as a comic.  (6:04) – Allison dives deep into her failed engagement including her upcoming book.  (6:30) – The reason Allison hates the phrase everything happens for a reason. (7:00) – The danger of getting attached to one version of happiness.  (7:16) – The liberating feeling of knowing she can be happy in several different paths. (9:08) – Allison gives tips on writing dating profiles.  (9:37) – Dating profile turnoffs for Allison. (12:13) – How Danny met his wife. (12:44) – Danny justifies the amount he spent on his wedding.  (13:17) – The wedding is about the community; the marriage is about the couple. (17:01) – Allison discusses her approach to podcasting.  (18:00) – Danny discloses the hardest thing about being a podcaster.  (18:10) – A lot of what Allison makes on her podcast she wouldn’t actually consume.  (20:00) – Inside marriage jokes.  (22:54) – The OCD diagnosis.  (24:20) – Allison and how she treats her OCD.  (25:11) – How OCD is diagnosed, and Danny admits he’s an OCD gatekeeper.  (28:40) – The beautiful part of aging.  (29:03) – The power of claiming what you like about yourself. (30:20) – Danny discusses where he was prior to meeting his wife.  (31:00) – Being funny doesn’t mean you can’t be happy. (31:45) – The challenging part of being a comedian and entertainer once the applause ends.  (33:45) – Danny needs to cry and finds a way to make it happen.  (35:10) – Danny shares that he used to have eleven panic attacks per day.  (36:20) – Going inpatient was Danny’s way of showing himself that he’s taking steps to better his life.  (36:55) – The Lexapro side effect conversation.  (38:00) – Allison goes deep with her mental diagnoses, including Contamination OCD. (39:00) – Inside Contamination OCD. (40:31) – The concept of the Obsessive Contamination Journal is revealed. (43:30) – Danny discusses manic fears and the challenges he incurs. (44:13) – Difficult mental conversations that must take place.  (45:16) – The challenge of brain-to-mouth filtering.  (46:59) – Allison and the meal aversion conversation. (48:54) – Allison and her relationship with medication.  (51:25) – Defining delicate clothes.  (52:11) – Washing, cleaning, and habits formed during COVID.  (53:20) – The most and least behaviors for Allison.  (54:38) – The need to track herself in public and track people in her home. Our Guest Allison Raskin is a woman who wears many hats. She’s a New York Times bestselling author with Young Adult and non-fiction offerings that examine the intersection of mental health and romance. She’s also an accomplished screenwriter who has created shows with FX, Netflix, MTV, YouTube Red, and 20th Century Television. Allison also has a strong Internet presence that includes her YouTube channel, Just Between Us which has over 170 million views. Her Instagram page, Emotional Support Lady is also popular attracting visitors from around the world. She is currently working toward her master’s in psychology, a goal that will help her dive deeper into the subject while serving others in need of mental support.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Allison Raskin https://www.allisonraskin.com/ https://www.instagram.com/allisonraskin/  https://twitter.com/AllisonRaskin https://www.youtube.com/user/justbetweenusshow https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/overthinking-about-you-allison-raskin/1139719769

Authenticity, getting real, being true to yourself … we’ve all heard those clichés a time or two. The truth is at some point we’ve all uttered them for one reason or another. But here’s the thing, hearing or saying them means nothing, it’s easy. The real value comes from stepping out and being bold enough to act because when you do, the universe takes notice, and some pretty awesome things begin happening. “Your comfort zone is a death sentence.” (Craig), 1:52 My guest today is Craig Siegel. He’s the author of the WSJ Bestseller The Reinvention Formula: How to Unlock a Bulletproof Mindset to Unlock Your Life, and quite simply one of the most amazing people I’ve ever talked to on the show. Today, Craig stops by to share his journey of reinvention, what he lost, what he learned, and the incredible life he has built by finding and becoming aligned with his authentic self. He’ll also share some of the struggles he’s overcome and offer tips on how you can do the same in your life.   “As it turns out, there’s a lot more to success than just making money.” (Craig), 12:42 If you’ve found the things in life that light your fire, but you’re afraid to make the move, this is the episode that will give you the courage to take the next step and bring it to reality. Don’t worry about your age because it’s truly nothing more than a number and it’s never too late! If this sounds like you, this episode is for you. “If I’m not weirding you out, I got to step it up.” (Craig), 21:55 “I’m a big believer that clarity follows action.” – (Craig), 40:47 In This Episode: (2:55) – Danny’s views on death and life. (3:33) – Death is a total life hack.  (4:44) – The reinvention highway Craig created for himself.  (5:20) – Craig talks about how he connects with an audience.  (6:00) – Danny dispels and discusses myths surrounding public speakers.  (6:59) – Fixing or reinventing yourself is not a quick fix, it’s a journey. (8:34) – The Tony Robbins Experience.  (10:57) – Preparation breeds confidence.  (12:00) – Craig discusses what leads to his bout of unhappiness.  (13:50) – How running changed Craig’s life.  (14:35) – Alignment is the key to life.  (16:50) – The two lists we all need to create. (17:55) – The importance of getting in the arena. (19:27) – Craig finds his superpower and commits to always being his authentic self. (21:14) – Craig feels liberated and free now that he has embraced himself.  (22:40) – Protecting boundaries is important for Craig.  (23:11) – Being selective with your energy.  (24:15) – The definition of success.  (26:05) – Peace is what Danny craves in his life.  (30:48) – The process of the Reinvention Formula is revealed.  (31:24) – The importance of being mentally fit.  (35:05) – Partners don’t always have to agree, but they do always need to respect one another.  (38:21) – The Eulogy Exercise.  (41:20) – Craig says great things happen when you step into fear and become bold.  (41:44) – The death sentence and your comfort zone.  (42:19) – Danny favors dying as a warrior rather than a spectator.  (47:11) – You’re never too old because it’s not about age, it’s about alignment. Our Guest  Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best-Selling Author Craig Siegel of “The Reinvention Formula”, is a highly sought-after Global Keynote Speaker, Rising Thought Leader, and Top Podcast Host of The CLS Experience and TEDx Speaker. Craig believes that removing one's limiting beliefs is the key to success in all areas of your life. As many people feel unworthy, Craig has taken his unique ability to help people release their negative beliefs and change their mindset into a positive one not only in business but in their personal lives. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Craig Siegel https://www.cultivatelastingsymphony.com/ https://www.instagram.com/craigsiegel_cls/  https://www.facebook.com/groups/cultivatelastingsymphony/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-landon-siegel-6889401ab/ http://twitter.com/craigsiegel_CLS

Depression is a very real situation, and we all need a safe space where we can go, speak honestly about what we may be going through, and get the healing and coping tools we deserve. Young people, including young women, are finding themselves in need of support, direction, and guidance. Having access to these tools can be the difference between living and just existing … and there is a difference.  “If you look at the wellness space as a whole, how many wellness spaces or communities can you name for men?” (Elyse), 4:28 My guest today is Elyse Fox, a woman blessed with many talents. From directing to activism to being a recognized tastemaker, to say her plate is full would truly be an understatement; it’s running over! Elyse is also the Founder of Sad Girls Club: an online platform and real-life platform designed to help young women facing mental illnesses. It’s an amazing undertaking and one that helps those suffering throughout the world find the support they so desperately desire. Today, we get deep with Elyse on a number of different topics as she shares her amazing journey.  “Delivery is really key too; especially in the moment.” – (Elyse), 12:59 It’s a challenging world out there, but Elyse wants young women who are struggling with mental health issues to know that they don’t have to go it alone. If you’re a young woman traveling this road or you know one who is, this is an episode that has to be experienced. The conversation is equal parts broad and informative and guaranteed to give listeners the push they need to move toward the healing they deserve! Don’t miss out on this life-enhancing discussion! “When people see numbers/statistics on mental health it’s easy for them to digest.” – (Elyse), 38:29 In this episode: (1:45) – The importance of branding and fonts on her website. (3:10) – Comedy and mental health go hand in hand. (3:33) – Danny tells of his therapist and the volume of comedians she treats. (4:09) – Danny explains why he started the show. (4:27) – Gender wellness states are compared.  (4:48) – Elyse shares her views on men and mental health. (5:49) – Men and the lack of true support systems.  (6:11) – Elyse relays the myth that men can’t cry. (7:04) – Danny discusses the danger of self-diagnosis. (7:14) – The fad of mental health being sexy.  (7:55) – The troublesome reality is that mental health is viewed as trendy. (8:54) – Danny discusses the pain of hearing a friend disclose their depression.  (9:47) – Elyse says acting with depression is a must.  (10:40) – Sometimes it’s about being listened to, not solving the problem.  (11:10) – Danny speaks about how he handles problems his wife brings to him.  (12:20) – Knowing how to address a woman when she’s being challenged matters.  (13:04) – Delivery makes all the difference according to Elyse. (14:40) – Elyse opens up and says motherhood was scary.  (18:00) – Motherhood was not the plan, but she wouldn’t change a thing.  (18:44) – Postpartum depression on top of her depression for Elyse.  (19:35) – Therapy was her saving grace. (20:29) – Danny moves the conversation to Conversations With Friends. (23:15) – The impact of feedback on her film is discussed. (24:20) – Elyse discusses how she handles her son when he’s having a moment. (25:40) – Elyse teaches her son to communicate anxiety and express his feelings.  (26:15) – The ‘being black in America' conversation Elyse will have with her son.  (28:31) – Danny and Elyse discuss her abusive past relationships. (29:02) – When Elyse knew she was tired of being in abusive relationships.  (31:03) – Danny discloses why men stay in bad relationships. (31:31) – Sad Girls Club isn’t just for females.  (33:41) – The difference being in nature can make on your mental state.  (36:25) – The importance of having resources on the Sad Girls website.  (37:17) – The candles on the website and Elyse discusses her favorite.  (39:31) – Relationship advice from Elyse.  (40:41) – The power of “I” statements. (40:50) – The value of friends who can check in on you.  (45:31) – Mental health wasn’t discussed when Elyse was a child.  Our Guest  Elyse Fox is a director, activist, and tastemaker living in New York City. She’s been featured in a number of publications including Vogue Magazine, Forbes, and Broadly to name a few. Through her efforts to create access and community within the mental health world, Elyse has partnered with Nike, Harvard University, The U.S. Intelligence Community, Instagram, and many more. Her mission is to connect communities, spread awareness, and provide access to resources through vulnerability, gathering, and storytelling. Resources & Links Off The Cuff with Danny LoPriore https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Elyse Fox https://sadgirlsclub.org/ https://www.instagram.com/elyse.fox/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/elysefoxnyc/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/elysefox

Life can be a challenging space to navigate. With all of the ups and downs, twists, and turns, sometimes it’s hard to figure out whether you’re coming or going. Here’s the thing to remember when you find yourself trying to find your way through one of those situations; you’re not alone. “People see ‘Doctor’ in front of your name and forget that you guys have feelings too.” – (Danny), 3:14 My guest today is a man who felt so knew so many were suffering, feeling alone and as if they had no way to cope … so through the power of social media, he gave them one. On this episode, I sit down and talk with renowned psychologist and content creator, the one and only Dr. Ali Mattu. Dr. Mattu specializes in mental health disorders and his online presence has become a beacon of light for many sufferers around the world who simply can’t afford to get the help they need. He’s an amazing man with a heart for people that comes through from the moment you first hear his voice. Our conversation runs the gamut and touches on suicide, a topic so many of us fear, but so many of us need to discuss.  “The hardest thing about being a therapist is how lonely it can get.” – (Dr. Mattu), 16:57 If you’ve been looking for a way to cope and get answers to some of the pressing questions that have for far too long kept you awake at night, this episode will speak directly to you. This is an episode that was designed with you in mind and one you won’t want to miss. “One person cannot and should not be your sole source of support for everything.” (Dr. Mattu), 37:02 “People who are suicidal aren’t just suicidal once.” – (Dr. Mattu), 50:45 “You never know in a conversation when you stumble upon someone’s trauma.” – (Dr. Mattu), 1:05:22 In This Episode: (3:30) – Dr. Mattu discusses how he balances patient challenges with his own emotions. (5:00) – No matter what the profession is, people bring issues, and we have to figure out how to manage them and their issues.  (6:11) – Self-care is part of his practice as it allows him to take care of his patients. (9:40) – The beauty and value of community colleges.  (10:10) – Dr. Mattu found himself after transferring to a 4-year university. (11:34) – The balancing act of being a doctor and content creator. (12:42) – Dr. Mattu shares why he began making content.  (13:02) – How the higher-ups felt about his content creation mechanism.  (14:27) – The importance of putting yourself out there becomes apparent. (16:57) – The loneliness of being a therapist.  (18:45) – A day in the life of a therapist. (20:58) – Striking the balance between what to share and what not to share with your partner.  (21:52) – Danny asks when and where to share his daily challenges with his spouse. (26:37) – Being brave in relationships is important according to Danny. (27:20) – The importance of checking in when you’re sharing panic experiences with your significant other. (33:47) – Learning to lean on his professional colleagues during tough times.  (35:25) – There’s trial and error involved with finding your support system. (38:45) – Sometimes you just need your feelings validated.  (40:00) – The conversation moves to the topic of suicide.  (41:12) – Danny discusses in-patient suicide and how it impacted his life. (41:44) – Dr. Mattu and losing his brother to suicide.  (44:00) – No matter what you’re going through, Danny expresses the importance of finding levity.  (45:00) – The range of emotions a person goes through when death happens.  (47:45) – Dr. Mattu goes back and remembers incidents with his brother.  (50:34) – The times Dr. Mattu saved his brother but had no idea he was actually saving him.  (53:15) – Dr. Mattu shares the dream he had about his brother.  (55:56) – Sorrow will always be present, but guilt isn’t necessary.  (1:01:58) – The complicated grief process that comes with losing a loved one to suicide.  (1:05:20) – When parents lose children, what happens in the aftermath?  (1:07:12) – Dr. Mattu shares grounding methods. (1:11:12) – Patient experiences with grounding.  (1:17:00) – Comparing yourself to people who are on the next level.  Our Guest  Dr. Ali Mattu became an expert at treating anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and body-focused repetitive behavior disorders using cognitive behavioral therapy. He was trained as a child clinical psychologist and specialized in adolescent and young mental health. In 2020, Dr Mattu shifted his focus to creating media for those who cannot afford effective mental health care. He received his B.A. from UCLA where he majored in psychology and minored in Asian American Studies. Dr Mattu received his PhD in clinical psychology from The Catholic University of America in Washington D.C. and completed a doctoral internship at the Bellevue Hospital Center and a post-doctoral fellowship at the NYU Langone Medical Center’s Child Study Center. He is a loving father and husband who resides in the Bay Area.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  Ali Mattu https://www.alimattu.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@DrAli https://www.instagram.com/alimattu/ https://www.tiktok.com/@alimattuphd https://www.facebook.com/dralimattu/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/alimattu

There’s a lot of conversation about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), some real and some of it is just talk. But no matter where the conversation falls or the parties involved, OCD is a very real situation. It can take over your days, limit your existence, and have a profound impact on your overall quality of life.  “My professional opinion is that OCD is under-diagnosed and misdiagnosed all the time.” (Amanda), 1:38 My guest today is Amanda Petrik-Gardner. Amanda knows a lot about OCD, how to detect it, and most importantly, how to help victims build strategies to overcome it. Her practice spans the nation and over the course of her career, she’s seen, heard, and helped with it all. Today, she stops by to discuss OCD, debunk myths surrounding it, and talk to us about why the time has come for our world to begin opening up and getting real about our mental health.  “One of the beauties of mental health is that it does not discriminate.” (Amanda), 6:08 OCD is real, but so are the treatments that help sufferers overcome it. If you’ve been diagnosed with OCD or any other condition that falls on the spectrum, this show is for you. If you think you may have this disorder, listen to it, make an appointment with a specialist, and boldly seek the help you deserve. This is an amazing conversation that focuses on a truly debilitating condition and one that will help you become your best version! Amanda Petrik-Gardner … today on Off the Cuff! “When we start living in this imagined story that’s not even happening, we start acting on it.” (Amanda), 14:17 “Don’t rely so much on what everybody tells you to do. Find out what works for you.” (Danny), 33:03 In This Episode: (1:30) – Is OCD over or under-diagnosed? (2:10) – Amanda debunks stereotypes surrounding OCD.  (2:32) – Danny discusses his classmate who had OCD/Repetitive Behavior as a child.  (3:22) – Amanda reveals that clinicians often have trouble understanding the concept.  (4:18) – There is no link between OCD and violence.  (4:50) – A person with OCD is the least likely to harm someone because the thought actually scares them. (6:30) – Amanda discusses her childhood and knowing what she wanted.  (6:53) – Understanding that some therapists go into a field because they didn’t get the help they needed.  (9:30) – Everybody has intrusive thoughts, but not everybody has OCD.  (10:35) – Amanda discusses the two OCD models.  (11:57) – Your brain creates stories, and they happen rather quickly.  (14:47) - Amanda assures listeners doubts aren’t concerns.  (15:02) – The percentage of people born with OCD and the genetics of it.  (17:09) – Danny opens the floor to traumatic brain injuries and OCD. (18:33) – Athletes are among the most OCD diagnoses.  (19:13) – The Nomar Garciaparra Experience. (19:43) – Routines can become OCD.  (20:21) – No direct correlation between addiction and OCD.  (21:25) – Amanada discusses the hierarchy of disorders.  (23:52) – Danny gets blunt about OCPD’s.  (25:30) – Amanda goes deeper into her childhood and early story and how the family doesn’t talk about mental health. (28:00) – Amanda reveals that OCD can be mental or physical.  (29:13) – Thoughts on people who self-diagnose.  (30:33) – The idea of treating OCD without therapy is discussed.  (32:40) – The importance of OCD homework.  (34:03) – Can OCD be a positive? (37:54) – Exposure Therapy for OCD (40:50) – Danny discusses the increased popularity of CBT.  (41:40) – The topic of Harm Obsession is discussed.  (43:00) – Amanda offers listeners guidance on how to work through Harm Obsessions.  (43:52) – How OCD looks in children. (44:54) – When should you seek treatment for OCD? Our Guest  Amanda Petrik-Gardner is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who works with individuals throughout the nation to uncover and help them live through their conditions. She specializes in the treatment of OCD and anxiety disorders. Her approach helps those struggling with intrusive, unwanted thoughts by engaging in compulsions to help alleviate whatever anxiety is causing them to struggle. Her hands-on philosophy helps her patients get to the heart of their disorder in a manner that empowers them to live richer, fuller lives. If you’re stuck, Amanda will work to get you unstuck, and moving in the right direction.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  Amanda Petrik-Gardner https://www.amandalcpc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/AnxietyOCDTreatment/ https://www.instagram.com/anxietyocdtreatment/

Fresh off his European trip, Danny sits down and takes listeners through what can best be described as a mental health journal. He shares some of the challenges and fears he faced while on the road and strategies he used to reset upon return.  “I think I have a love/hate relationship with the word influencer.” – (Danny), 1:43 As is always the case, Danny gets very transparent with the listeners in a way that is cleansing for him and healthy for all of them. He opens up about rehab and how it unfortunately has been stigmatized as a place you can only go when you’ve hit rock bottom, the need for each of us to put our needs first at certain points along with the incredible healing power of video games.  “I just enjoy the smaller things in life. I think it’s because I’ve been through so much with anxiety and panic.” – (Danny), 6:03 This episode also touches on health as Danny reveals that one of his goals is to get his under control so that he can live longer and live better. Speaking of life, he reminds us that one day in our lives, every person on this planet will leave this one at some point which is why it’s important to live it to the fullest! ‘Don’t wait, start now’ is his life mantra and he implores listeners to adopt this same approach. Resetting, understanding the power of now and so much more are all here in this powerful episode that you simply can’t afford to miss!   “Life is all about resets; resetting life.” (Danny), 7:58 “If I go out of my way to get as healthy as possible, those trips to the doctor will be cut in half.” (Danny). 10:29 “Anything in this life worth going for requires work.” (Danny), 12:24)   In this episode: (1:06) – Danny on his European trip.  (1:29) – Danny discusses coming to grips as an influencer.  (2:04) – The difficult times of being away from home are discussed in a very transparent moment.  (2:43) – Danny reveals the loneliness of his profession.  (3:25) – The alone time in London was even more challenging as Danny fell ill.   (4:08) – He was sick off his feet in Northern Ireland, but the show had to go on.  (5:00) – How video games impact his mental health.  (5:20) – The escape video games offer can’t be beaten.  (6:10) – Dreaming about going back to rehab when he was in Europe. (6:31) – Danny shares that he thinks rehab gets a bad rap.  (6:50) – Rehab can be a great recalibration tool.  (8:07) – Sometimes life calls for you to be selfish.  (8:36) – Danny reveals that his eating habits must change.  (9:00) – He has to get his life and body back within the next few months.  (9:30) – The sad goal of losing weight.  (10:13) – The Health Anxiety Monster.  (10:40) – It’s okay to admit you don’t have control over certain parts of your life.  (11:47) – Danny shares that we’re all works in progress.  (12:02) – Seeing the fruits of labor makes it all worthwhile.  (13:00) – Death is inevitable so why not give it your all? (14:08) – Don’t wait for whatever you want, do it now.  (14:40) – Danny wishes he wasn’t a procrastinator.  (14:58) – The power of now and the power it wields are discussed.  (16:00) – Concerns about his body and the need to exercise.  (16:44) – The curse of being an athlete.  (18:13) – The mystery of BMI.  (19:00) – Danny shares his reasons for wanting to get into shape.  (19:46) – Seeing the elderly having a quality of life and how it makes Danny feel.  Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc

A true gift is the best way to describe Off The Cuff with Danny LoPriore. The show is a gift to the listeners with each guest playing a pivotal role in the success of the podcast and the many ways it has helped to shape people’s lives. As we review the many people and places we’ve gone, we’re featuring clips with Tristan Mack Wilds of The Wire on the challenges he faced playing the seminal role of Michael and how that role shaped his career. We’ll hear from the amazing Peter Ruppert on certainty, making decisions, and understanding how to navigate anxiety. We catch up with Ben Nemtin as he shares perspectives on life, death, and the importance of being around people who inspire him and The Bucket List Journal. Dr. Sasha Hamdani offers insights into the struggles of living with ADHD, treatment options, and how it impacts each individual differently. Nick Thompson comes through and provides insights into the real-life rigors of being a reality television star and life after. JB Copeland opens up about his journey from star athlete to a youth pastor, struggling with addiction. Kati Morton shares views on narcissism, BPD (borderline personality disorder), and the truth behind people pleasing.  This is just a glimpse of what you can expect from this groundbreaking offering, designed to help listeners like you become the best version of yourselves. If you’re a long-time listener, thank you, because you’re the fuel that keeps us going. If you’re new, buckle up; the fun is just beginning and you’re in for one incredible ride!   Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/ https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/

We’ve all got something going on inside, a silent battle that rages that we must deal with at some point. It makes no difference what a person looks like on the surface, or the mask they wear, everyone, even the person who looks, acts, and speaks like there’s nothing, has something, if we’re ever honest with one another, that’s the one thing that brings us closer.  “It’s kind of like a club that everyone in the world is a member of they just don’t know it yet.” – Eric, (4:04) My guest today is Eric Kussin and he’s one of the most fascinating men I’ve ever met. Eric is the founder of #SameHere Global, a non-profit that champions addressing mental health challenges in a strategic manner. In this episode, Eric sits down, and we have a very real conversation about his bouts with mental health, how the system gets it all wrong, and why athletes move past the stigma that keeps them from getting the peace they deserve.  “Emotional pain is cumulative.” – Eric, (8:43) If you’ve been struggling or fighting a battle that you feel like you can seem to defeat on your own, understand there are solutions to assist you. Listen as Eric candidly speaks about his struggles and the ones he’s seen in others and how these experiences can help you overcome yours! “Your love of what you do every single day is an escape.” – Eric, (27:24) “When you’re taught at a young age that there’s this escapism type of tool that you pop that just makes things better, you’re never asked to develop the skill set that allows you to develop the skill set to deal with challenging events.” Eric, (45:11)   In this Episode: (1:40) – Eric talks about where he is now.  (2:11) – He started the organization as an obligation after he learned about mental health system flaws.  (2:30) – Lessons learned about the non-profit work world.  (3:35) – Eric discusses navigating the different pieces of the business. (4:40) – Understanding the commonality we all share.  (6:39) – Eric delves into why athletes ignore mental health.  (6:50) – What society told us about mental health and who it’s for. (8:13) – Eric discloses how athletes mistakenly use on-the-field hurt to mirror off-the-field mental hurts.  (9:07) – The cumulative build of mental health.  (9:52) – Eric discusses the hidden costs of the routines that coaches put players through.  (10:15) – Danny discusses the one thing sports never taught him.  (11:30) – Why athletes can’t be vulnerable about real-life challenges.  (12:40) – Sports documentaries are actually mental health stories. (13:28) – Insights on Johnny Manziel.  (16:34) – Danny describes the curious case of Jon Jones. (21:35) – The misses of the Netflix documentary and how they mirror the life of an athlete.  (23:30) – Holding Netflix accountable is something Eric thinks needs to be done with sports documentaries. (25:33) – Danny discusses how a loss by a favorite team can impact the week.  (26:44) – Understanding the importance or lack thereof of using sports as a release.  (27:55) – Athletes and dealing with the things that really matter.  (29:48) – Eric discusses the addiction to Dopamine and the need to address it.  (32:00) – The need to work on the things you’ve lived through.  (32:30) – The hidden pain of nicknames.  (34:00) – Eric gives his opinion on medication. (35:15) – The 52 medications Eric tried. (38:12) – How medication works. (39:00) – The danger of marketing medication as a cure.  (40:10) – Mental health drugs are not fixers.  (41:41) – Eric talks about why people go to gyms and the cause and effect of it. (43:22) – Danny believes children of today are overmedicated.  (46:30) – Eric says we’re treating mental health and physical health the same way which is wrong.  (47:10) – Danny says it takes more than just medicine; it takes actual work.  (48:35) – It’s not about being ripped; it’s about being functional.  (55:40) – Eric brings steroids into the conversation.  (56:46) – Stem cells, athletes, and advances in technology.  (58:35) – A theory on why people bully. (59:32) – The brilliance of Royce White.  (1:00:26) – How the NBA actually talks out of both sides of their mouth.  (1:03:00) – The pros and cons of TMS therapy.  (1:07:33) – The Singlet and repetitive thought patterns.  (1:08:57) – STAR, healing your nervous system through self-healing. (1:10:36) – Happy isn’t a binary place.    Our Guest Eric Kussin is the founder of #SameHere Global which brings athletes, celebrities, and expert practitioners together. After a successful career that started at the NBA League Office and led to senior management positions with a number of professional sports teams, Eric’s mental health took a sudden and rapid decline. Due to unresolved personal life traumas, he failed to appropriately address at a younger age – life experiences he was unaware were affecting his mental health – Eric developed a severe bout of PTSD, along with symptoms of anxiety and depression. This fall came essentially “out of nowhere” and left him almost permanently in bed, and with severe cognitive impairment, for just over two and a half years. Once he found a way to climb out of his abyss, he vowed to spend the rest of his life focused on changing the global conversation through mental health advocacy.   Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/  Eric Kussin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-kussin-5010a37 https://www.instagram.com/samehere_global/ https://www.facebook.com/SameHereGlobal https://twitter.com/samehere_global  https://www.instagram.com/weareallalittlecrazy/?hl=en

How many times a day do you think about food? For most of us, our next meal is always at the forefront of our minds. It’s true that we need food to live, but what if we found out that we’ve been handling our relationship with food all wrong? Taking it a step further, many of us equate food intake with weight loss. But when it comes to weight loss, what if we found out the amount of sleep we get has as much of an impact as the foods we eat? “The whole premise of my entire practice is how’s the relationship you have with your body?” – Kim, (10:24) My guest today is a woman who knows a lot about food, sleep, and how they play off one another when it comes to weight loss and creating the body and life you deserve. She’s Kim Shapira, and over the years she has become one of the most trusted names in the world when it comes to diet and nutrition. In her new book entitled, This is What You’re Really Hungry For: Six Simple Rules to Transform Your Relationship with Food to Become Your Healthiest Self, Kim discusses how to develop a healthy relationship with food that will take your life to another level.   “It’s really hard to lose weight when you’re stressed”. – Kim, (10:51) Food is our fuel, but understanding how to manage food intake and the emotions behind it is how you become the best version of yourself. If you’ve been navigating this food landscape by yourself all this time and haven’t seen the results you desire, have a seat, listen to Kim, and get the answers you need, and deserve! “We have to know what’s healthy for your body”. – Kim, (17:04) “What people are really hungry for is peace.” – (17:54)   In this episode: (2:45) – Kim discusses her Jewish upbringing.  (3:29) – The importance of sleep is discussed.  (3:55) – Danny reveals his challenges with fatigue and sleep.  (4:40) – The conversation turns to a health session for Danny. (6:00) – A1C is discussed in-depth, and Danny reveals he was in a bad place. (7:00) – Danny reveals his lifestyle change.  (8:15) – Kim reveals we need at least 7 hours of sleep and consistent rest to operate at our best.  (8:56) – Sleep corrects everything.  (9:27) – Melatonin is the most powerful antioxidant in our body.  (10:20) – The importance of sleep and weight loss.  (10:57) – Even if you’re not feeling stress, your body can still feel it.  (14:12) – Stress and true hunger. (14:32) – Debunking food myths.  (14:45) – Kim reveals that people are actually afraid of hunger.  (15:44) – There is no “best” diet for diabetes.  (16:57) – The importance of having your body and mind in the same place.  (17:40) – Eat every 2.5 to 3 hours to balance your blood sugar. (19:01) – Kim discusses her Six Simple Rules.  (20:01) – Be hungry when you eat and only eat half of what you would normally eat.  (22:24) – No need to wait, we have everything we need right here in front of us. (22:33) – Eat less, sleep more, exercise more. (25:00) – Eat what you love, but only eat foods that make you feel well.  (26:47) – Food is fuel, not fun.  (27:50) – Be with the food and enjoy what’s going into your mouth.  (30:39) – Don’t label or sensationalize food.  (32:25) – Weight is important, but body fat percentage is the most important thing.  (33:04) – 10K steps every single day.  (34:23) – The value of walking before and after you eat.  (36:36) – A gallon of water is too much to drink per day.  (37:16) – Drink water and get seven hours of sleep.  (37:44) – The snooze button is your enemy.    Our Guest  Kim Shapira M.S., R.D. is a celebrity dietitian, nutritional therapist, and author, with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Tulane University and a master’s degree in human Metabolism and Clinical Nutrition from Boston University. Kim has spent over 25 years helping people lose weight and keep it off (with a giant emphasis on keeping it off), both in her private Los Angeles practice, in hospitals, sports clinics, addiction centers and universities. When she's not helping her clients take back their relationship with food, she is a wife and mother of three children and three pups. Kim often appears as a guest expert for Yahoo!, Just Jenny, Sky News, Vanity Fair, Pop Sugar, Podcasts, and more.   Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Kim Shapira https://www.kimshapiramethod.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kimshapiramethod/ https://instagram.com/kimshapiramethod https://twitter.com/kimshapira https://www.tiktok.com/@kimshapiramethod https://www.youtube.com/@kimshapiramethod

When it comes to children, mothers are considered their north star. No matter how old that child gets when times get hard or the waters get rough, that child will always look to their mother to guide them to a safe place. But what happens when your mother is no longer there? What makes matters even worse, what do you do when the person who took your mother … is your father, the one sworn to protect her? “Something has happened to her. She’s either locked away in a shed somewhere or he’s killed her.” (8:07), Collier My guest today is Collier Landry. Collier has an amazing story of resilience and perseverance that will inspire you no matter what stage of life you’re in. At the tender age of 11, his father murdered his mother. As a result, the lives of Collier and his younger sister were thrown into disarray. He reveals this amazing story in the 2017 film, A Murder In Mansfield. Today, Collier discusses how he made it through this turbulent time and how others can find a light at the end of any dark tunnel. “The grass is always greener on the other side, but that doesn’t make it true.” – (49:59), Collier It makes no difference what you’re going through, there’s always hope if you just keep moving forward. Pull up a chair and listen to this amazing testimony of the human spirit, compassion, and forgiveness, that will help you persevere and find your better place! “I am grateful for what I went through because it's made me the person I am today. And I genuinely like that person.” – Collier In this episode: (2:22) – Collier walks listeners through the murder of his mother by his father in 1989. (3:18) – Collier confronts his father about the absence of his mother.  (4:31) – The coverup of the crime begins. (5:38) – His father introduces Collier to his girlfriend who is pregnant. (6:19) – His mother knew of his father and his philandering but didn’t want Collier involved. (6:30) – The violation that led to the situation worsening.  (7:00) – The conversation Collier had with his mother about possibly going missing.  (8:27) – Detectives enter the situation and things begin to turn. (10:20) – Collier begins surveilling his father. (10:40) – The behavior of his father begins to shift.  (11:21) – Two weeks alone with his father was a living hell.  (13:00) – The two photographs Collier discovers.  (13:51) – The father-son trip to Florida that Collier fears.  (14:50) – Collier realizes his father is on to him.  (17:41) – Guilt begins to creep into the mind of Collier.  (18:28) – The worst asthma attack occurs, and he can’t go home.  (19:34) – Collier hears of his mother’s death.  (20:12) – Collier wishes he was wrong, and discusses the pain of being right.  (20:42) – The grief of knowing his worst thoughts were true.  (21:25) – Collier discusses not knowing what his future will be and testifying against his father.  (22:40) – The pain of being a foster child and poor treatment from his foster family.  (24:45) – Collier reveals where his mother’s body is found under the house where his father and mistress will live. (26:54) – Collier discusses the miracle of him remaining functional.  (28:10) – The common bond of children who grow up seemingly overnight.  (28:46) – The Murder in Mansfield Documentary is discussed. (30:55) – Collier pursues filmmaking because he wants the answer as to why his father murdered his mother.  (35:42) – The gift and the curse of discussing his childhood.  (40:00) – The fallacy of true crime podcasts. (42:12) – Mental illness sufferers often suffer in silence.  (43:06) – You don’t always see the people you impact.  (43:24) – The lessons people receive from Collier reading his father’s letters.  (44:28) – Getting over it just doesn’t work.  (46:28) – The three seconds of the film that earned Collier's respect.  (47:20) – Money doesn’t solve problems.  (48:27) – Collier reviews the true source of being happy. (50:30) – Possibly writing letters to his mother down the line.  (54:02) – Trauma treatment becomes the topic.  (55:47) – Collier reveals that he still gets triggered. Our Guest Collier Landry is a multifaceted artist known for his work as a cinematographer, podcast host, and award-winning documentary filmmaker. He gained widespread recognition as the creator and subject of A Murder in Mansfield, a film directed by two-time Oscar winner Barbara Kopple. Collier's passion for storytelling was sparked by his own traumatic childhood experience: the pre-meditated murder of his mother by his psychopath father. He uses film and podcasting to creatively express and deal with this trauma and as a platform to give a voice to others who have faced similar circumstances. Collier hosts the award-winning  Moving Past Murder podcast, which offers his unique perspective on surviving true crime and overcoming adversity. He interviews guests who have experienced or overcome tremendous life challenges and hopes the show serves as a form of therapy and reconciliation for himself and his listeners. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Collier Landry https://www.instagram.com/collierlandry/ https://www.tiktok.com/@collierlandry https://twitter.com/collierlandry https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYIJGxnTPGxaKRZc-Gq63iA https://www.facebook.com/collierlandry

There are a lot of stigmas out there and nowhere is there more than when the topic comes to therapy. Over the years, therapy has gotten a bad rap, but here’s the reality of it all. One of the strongest, most empowering things a person can do is recognizing they need help. And, without question, the most powerful thing is reaching out and getting the help they need.  “Bedside manner should definitely be more prioritized in medical school.” – (4:31), Kati My guest today is Kati Morton. Kati is the author of, Are U Ok?” A Guide to Caring for Your Mental Health, and one of the leading voices and most trusted therapists in the nation. Today, we sit down to talk about a host of things including marriage, relationships, friendships, disorders and how our past can impact our present. Kati has seen and done a lot with patients and today, she graciously opens up to help listeners move closer to healing.   “The thing about being a therapist is that it’s not about me.” – (15:06), Kati Regardless of what it might look like on the outside, none of us have this thing called life all figured out. Clear your mind and open your ears and have a listen to this amazing conversation that will help you get closer to becoming the person you’ve always longed to become! “A lot of times the problems that we’re having with our partner are problems that we had because of our childhood.” – (18:38), Kati In this episode: (1:30) – Katis’ career begins, and she admits she’s still learning.  (2:12) – Imposter syndrome in the beginning of her career.  (3:04) – Being willing to refer someone out is something Kati says is important. (5:06) – Kati reinforces the importance of having a doctor who cares.  (5:51) – Why doctor’s visits can be challenging for some patients and how to take control of them. (6:52) – The need to translate medical language into everyday vernacular.  (8:44) – Kati and Danny discuss the bipolar spectrum and the different levels and layers.  (11:16) – Kati defines the so-called, high functioning depressive.  (12:40) – Breakup advice in the therapist kind of way. (13:42) – Giving couples homework. (14:41) – When patients break up with a therapist.  (15:37) – Patients and therapists don’t have to be best friends, but they do need to click.  (16:44) – Biggest changes Kati has seen in the mental health space.  (17:45) – The silver lining of COVID as it relates to those in need of therapy.  (19:28) – Earning power friction and insecurities for men. (19:55) – Admitting to family members that the relationship failed is hard.  (20:33) – The stigmatization of divorce.  (22:34) – Articulating mental health to the layperson.  (23:28) – Views on treating men who have mental health issues.  (30:00) – Challenges with TBI’s (Traumatic Brain Injuries).  (31:45) – Exploring the dangers of collision sports, (football, hockey, MMA). (32:19) – Being able to spot a narcissist.  (35:52) – The exhaustion of people pleasing.  (36:08) – Therapists also need therapy. (36:23) - The origins of people pleasing. (37:33) – How men can become better communicators. (38:23) – Men should check in with their partners daily including calls and touches.  (39:17) – Couples must listen and ask real questions.  (41:59) – Can men cheat and still be in love with his partner? (43:27) – Ways to regain trust after infidelity.  (45:54) – Why therapists allow you to tell lies.  (46:48) – Being jealous in a relationship, is it normal? (47:20) – Selfishness in a relationship and how to balance. (48:01) – Verbal altercations are different than healthy discussions.  (49:05) – Your partner shouldn’t know everything about you.  (49:40) – Your mate shouldn’t be your everything.  (50:45) – Different people to meet different needs is how you build a support system.  (53:01) – Therapists can be human lie detectors.  (57:03) – How to break-up with a friend. Our Guest  Kati Morton, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a highly sought-after speaker in the field of mental health. With a master’s in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University, Kati has delivered impactful talks at prestigious events and platforms worldwide. Her influential YouTube channel - with over 1.3 million subscribers and 120 million views, has made her a prominent figure in translating complex mental health concepts into accessible language. Through her dynamic presence on social media and appearances on top-rated shows such as Dr. Phil, E! News, CBS The Doctors, and The Dr. Drew Show, Kati has successfully spread awareness, reduced stigma, and empowered individuals to prioritize their mental well-being. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Kati Morton https://katimorton.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/katimorton https://www.facebook.com/katimorton1/ https://www.instagram.com/katimorton/ https://twitter.com/katimorton

Social media is the gift that keeps on giving, but on the other side, social media can also be a curse. It’s addictive and once it sucks you in it can be hard, often impossible to get out. In many cases, it’s how you react to the plethora of platforms at our disposal that determines how well you’re able to navigate this new element of life that looks as if it’s definitely here to stay and not a fad as many would’ve wanted us to believe years ago.  “Is it productive? Is it beneficial to my mental health to obsess about things that happened in the past?” – (2:45), Josh  My guest today is Josh Seiter. Josh is a man who knows a little something about the media, and social media. He recently went through a media storm with stories of his passing making headlines. Lucky for us, and the world at large, he’s still alive, kicking, and championing the virtues of mental health. His struggle is one that will inspire everyone and call you to focus on what, and who really matters in life, even if that person is you: Someone so many of us forget to value.  “Just because people are momentarily interested in you, it doesn't make you better than anyone.” – (7:57), Josh We’re all going through something and at some point, we all need someone to listen and show us that we matter. Pull up a chair and take a listen as Josh takes us inside his journey to healing, family, finding purpose, and unlocking the incredible man that lives within! “My self-worth isn’t based on what other people think of me, good or bad.” – (8:40), Josh “I think the only reason you would want to leave the world is because you feel unloved.” – (21:47), Josh In This Episode (1:43) – Josh discusses the social media prank that he was dead.  (3:19) – Putting the social media hack behind him is the best thing for his mental state.  (4:22) – The media onslaught due to the rumors of his passing.  (5:40) – In spite of it all, Josh has chosen to focus on the positive.  (6:11) – The false sense of importance is discussed. (7:26) – The transition back to relative anonymity.  (8:21) – How humans are always seeking approval from others.  (9:21) – The reality that you’re not going to make everybody happy.  (10:33) – Josh choosing to focus on the good regardless of what others say about him. (12:49) – Mental challenges began at 15 and he lived in silence.  (13:26) – Three years of law school, but Josh found purpose in mental health.  (14:10) – Josh feels confirmation about his choices when he sees them in writing.  (17:16) – The conversation moves to how he always focuses on negativity.  (18:20) – Restructuring your thoughts and becoming more emotionally mature.  (19:25) – The prospects of celebrity therapists.  (21:00) – Being more receptive of people who don’t meet our norm.  (21:31) – Mental health and suicide common traits.  (21:55) – What led Josh to two suicide attempts.  (22:51) – The importance of having a therapist.  (24:00) – What the future for Josh holds.  (25:00) – Josh says he needs to find purpose daily.  (27:00) – The relationship with God and his past experiences with religion are discussed.  (31:25) – Josh takes everyday as it comes and being bipolar mandates this. Our Guest Josh Seiter is a former contestant on The Bachelorette and a reality TV star. He appeared on shows like 90 Day Fiancé and Love After Lockup, becoming known for his TV appearances. In 2015, he joined The Bachelorette but was eliminated early. He’s also an internet personality and cares about mental health. Recently, during Pride Month, Josh shared his true side and came out as homosexual. He told everyone about his new relationship with David, who is an amazing dancer. Josh had some tough relationships with women before, but now he’s happy to be in a healthy and fulfilling partnership with David. Resources & Links Off The Cuff https://www.offthecuff.fm/  https://www.youtube.com/c/OffTheCuffwithDannyLoPriore  https://www.instagram.com/1and1otc/  https://www.instagram.com/dannylopriore/ https://www.tiktok.com/@1and1otc Josh Seiter https://www.instagram.com/josh_seiter_official/