URGE TO SURGE

What if the key to reclaiming your health, energy, and purpose was sitting on your plate?    At 46, Olivier Mankondo was battling high blood pressure, chronic pain, and exhaustion, convinced he’d be on medication for life. Instead, he chose a different path. In this inspiring episode of Urge to Surge, Ruchika jives with Olivier Mankondo about how he lost 35 kilos, regained his health, and found a new purpose through plant-based living. From silencing critics to building resilience, Olivier’s journey reveals how small, consistent choices can unlock lasting transformation. If you’ve ever struggled with weight loss, energy, or motivation, this story will inspire you to see health in a whole new way. Press play and start rewriting the story your future self will thank you for.   Follow Olivier on Instagram: instagram.com/omankondo    Who Should Listen Anyone struggling with weight loss or chronic health issues People who are curious about plant-based living but unsure where to start Wellness seekers looking for motivation and simple steps Coaches, entrepreneurs, and leaders wanting mindset inspiration   What You’ll Learn in This Episode How a plant-based diet can reverse health problems The role of mindset vs. willpower in achieving goals Ways to stay motivated when progress feels slow How to overcome criticism and stay true to your choices Practical, beginner-friendly steps to shift toward healthier eating A powerful reminder that health and resilience are choices you can make   Episode highlights: (1:05) Reversing chronic pain through nutrition (6:06) Finding clarity, calm, and inner strength (8:10) Why mindset matters more than willpower (10:11) Handling critics and family resistance (13:26) Redefining purpose and creating new life goals (17:09) Small, simple steps to begin plant-based living (19:50) Building a winning mindset for lasting change  

What if your deepest wounds could become your greatest strength?   Blanca’s journey began with loss, silence, and hardship that could have defined her life. Instead, she chose healing, self-worth, and purpose. In this episode of Urge to Surge, Ruchika speaks with Blanca E. Rodriguez, author, speaker, and founder of Wounded Healer, LLC, about turning trauma into strength and pain into possibility. This moving conversation offers raw honesty, powerful lessons, and hope for anyone ready to rise above their past. Don’t just listen, let this episode remind you that you are worthy of healing, love, and a life of purpose.   Follow Blanca on Instagram: instagram.com/woundedhealer.blancae    Who Should Listen Anyone carrying childhood wounds or unresolved trauma Survivors of abusive or toxic relationships Women seeking strength, healing, and self-worth Coaches, therapists, and healers supporting others in pain Listeners looking for stories of resilience and faith in the face of hardship   What You’ll Learn in This Episode A deeper understanding of forgiveness as a tool for growth Hope that change is possible no matter your past Practical healing practices through movement, self-compassion, and mindset Insights on breaking generational trauma and codependency Inspiration to reclaim your voice and live with purpose   Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:05) Finding power in forgiveness and healing (6:46) Breaking cycles of trauma and abuse (10:26) Speaking your truth and reclaiming your voice (15:04) How dance became medicine for the soul (26:17) The real meaning of forgiveness (37:33) Escaping toxic cycles for good (50:02) Why your past doesn’t define your future  

What would you do if one moment changed everything?    After a near-fatal car accident at 26, Alan Lazaros found himself asking hard questions about purpose, success, and happiness. In this episode, Alan shares how he turned trauma into growth, left the safety of corporate life, and built a global top 100 podcast that now inspires millions. Alan opens up about adversity, resilience, therapy, and the mindset shifts that helped him transform pain into purpose. Packed with practical wisdom and real stories, this episode shows how courage, humility, and self-belief can fuel both success and fulfillment.   Follow Alan on Instagram: instagram.com/alazaros88   Who Should Listen Entrepreneurs and professionals at a career crossroads Anyone recovering from trauma, setbacks, or self-doubt Growth-minded listeners seeking practical strategies for personal transformation Couples and individuals curious about therapy, coaching, and intentional living   What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Alan turned tragedy into a second chance at life and success Why self-belief, humility, and work ethic form the foundation of achievement The difference between therapy and coaching—and why you need both How to break free from fear of failure and fear of success Alan’s “Triad of Transformation” formula for lasting change   Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:18) The car accident that changed Alan’s life (2:27) His “quarter-life crisis” and redefining success (7:13) The mental and emotional toll after the crash (10:31) Why therapy and coaching both matter (14:01) How early family loss shaped his identity (19:10) The truth about resilience and high ACE scores (28:48) Turning pain into power through self-belief (39:35) Advice for those afraid to take the leap (42:44) Final message of encouragement for anyone feeling stuck  

This episode delves into the intricate world of subconscious resistance and its emotional underpinnings...   Discover the two primary emotions often rooted in early childhood experiences that drive this resistance for many individuals...

In this episode, I share one of the significant questions that I faced during my journey of healing from depression...   Join me as we explore the nuances of mental health and the journey towards self-acceptance in this episode.

This episode delves into the beauty and complexity of solitude and the emotions that arise when we are alone with our thoughts…   It explores the process of confronting inner thoughts and emotions, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and self-discovery…

This episode delves deep into the essence of true self-care beyond conventional practices...   It is a personalized journey of self-discovery, understanding, and nurturing to connect with the essence of your being.

This episode delves into Dina’s remarkable journey of hope and resilience… At the tender age of 19, Dina's life took a significant turn when she was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)… But rather than letting this diagnosis define her, Dina embarked on a life-altering journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing… Through the highs and lows associated with mental illness, Dina has managed to surge forward, continuously overcoming obstacles and embracing each challenge as an opportunity for growth… Today, Dina is actively pursuing her professional goals and aspirations, all while advocating for mental health awareness and empowerment.

This episode explores the complex interplay between positive and negative emotions and examines whether it is possible for the warmth of joy, the uplift of gratitude, and the serenity of contentment to dissolve the shadows cast by anger, fear, or sadness... Join me as we navigate the complexities of our emotional landscape.

  This episode explores the three pillars that shape our journeys through healing, change, growth, and self-discovery:   👉 Resistance as a Compass 👉 Permission as Liberation 👉 Intent as Direction   These are not isolated forces but interconnected facets of a comprehensive process of self-exploration...  

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the complexities of the emotional world, exploring why you often find yourself bewildered by your feelings...   It addresses the question of why understanding and navigating your emotions can be so challenging, illuminating the intricacies of your emotional landscapes and highlighting the hurdles in recognizing and processing these feelings.

Today's episode is dedicated to exploring the art of letting go, identifying the barriers that hold us back, and embracing the freedom of releasing what no longer serves us...

In this episode, we delve into the intricate and crucial concept known as "Silent Sirens"—the symptoms indicative of nearing rock bottom...   It uncovers the nuanced, frequently missed signs that herald the approach toward one's lowest point, highlighting the criticality of identifying these early warnings for the sake of mental health and overall well-being.  

This episode features the awe-inspiring story of Israr Jan-Parker, whose life is a testament to the incredible power of human resilience and determination...   As a senior lecturer in Marketing at the University of Chichester, UK, Israr has made significant contributions to academia and industry alike...   However, it's her journey through a life-threatening health diagnosis that truly captures the essence of courage...   After being diagnosed with a Petroclival Meningioma brain tumor, Israr embarked on a remarkable path to recovery and advocacy...   As she eases back into her professional life, Israr is taking on a monumental challenge to walk 106 km to raise funds for the brain tumor research charity, and in June, she will be climbing Mount Toubkal(4167 m, Morocco), to raise awareness for this cause...   Join me as we explore Israr's incredible story of survival, resilience, and determination to make a difference.  

This episode explores the concept of resolving one's being and its impact on actions and potential... The story of Leo, a chef, is used to illustrate the importance of understanding and resolving our inner being... Leo's journey of self-discovery and healing leads to a transformation in his cooking and leadership... Tune in to uncover how addressing your unresolved being can unlock your true potential.

In this episode, I delve into the significance of mental detoxification as a crucial step towards personal development.  I shared my experience with mental health challenges and the resulting limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns it fostered.  Additionally, I shared the strategies and methods that help in mental detoxification. Mental detoxification isn't just crucial for those who have faced any challenges; it's vital for anyone who wants continual growth.  

In this episode, we embark on an enlightening journey to explore the intricate mechanisms of the emotional webs.  We will delve into whether it's truly feasible to untangle and reshape the complex webs that dictate your responses. Whether you find yourself routinely trapped in familiar emotional patterns, are on a quest for deeper self-understanding, or are simply intrigued by the nuances of human emotions, this episode brings insights and revelations that speak directly to you. Join me on this captivating exploration as we uncover the potential for profound personal transformation within each of us.

In this episode, I share my journey through depression and explain why I am so passionate about promoting mental health awareness. I delve into the valuable insights and lessons I gained from my journey. Furthermore, I extend a heartfelt message to listeners who are facing similar challenges and bring them hope.

This episode explores the intricate mechanisms of the human psyche, focusing on the dynamics of defense and coping. It delves into the concept of emotional defenses as shields and the importance of building resilience. The conversation emphasizes the need to recognize and understand defense mechanisms, develop healthy coping strategies, and achieve a balance between defense and coping. The ultimate goal is to embark on a journey towards emotional well-being by embracing growth and self-awareness.      

Join me in exploring an uplifting story of resilience and empowerment with Theresia Evans, as she shares her extraordinary journey of healing and empowerment. In March 2022, Theresia faced an overwhelming challenge: a diagnosis of stage four melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer.  The situation was dire, with tumors spreading throughout her body, notably in her ovaries and, critically, in her brain.  Facing this daunting diagnosis, Theresia embarked on an intensive medical journey, including two brain surgeries, targeted gamma-knife radiation treatment, diverse forms of immunotherapy, and a laparoscopic procedure. Her story, highlighted by a remarkable recovery and clear scans just a year after diagnosis, is a testament to courage, determination, and the untapped power that lies within each of us. Throughout the episode, Theresia shares vital insights and guidance for individuals confronting similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of trusting one’s inner guidance and forging a unique path toward healing and empowerment.