Once Shattered: Picking up the Pieces

Jason MacKenzie is a husband, father, and business owner.   After losing his first wife Cindy and his 19-year-old daughter Chloe, he’s on a mission to educate men, and the people who love them, about grief and healing. He writes about loss, grief and healing at his Substack. https://improvingman.substack.com/  Our Hosts, Linda and John Mazur, and Ellen Bennett, discuss various mental health issues—eating disorders, anxiety, depression, suicide, substance and alcohol use disorders. This team has a combined experience of over thirty-five years in dealing with eating disorders and their co-morbidities. They share their insights on anorexia, grief, advocacy, and the significance of finding support networks. The podcasts feature interviews with mental health experts, authors, and individuals with lived experiences. Linda, John, and Ellen emphasize the need for improved community awareness and the benefits of strong interpersonal connections. Join us as we start the conversations to end the pervasive shame and stigma associated with mental health issues as we strive to improve mental health care and learn to embrace, better understand, and support those who struggle, and those who love them. Let’s help each other pick up the pieces and discover new pathways to healing.The Mazur’s can be reached at: Linda.John.Mazur@gmail.comTo learn more about their nonprofit visit:www.TheEmileeConnection.comTheir book and audiobook : Emilee - The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia: Mazur, Linda, Mazur, John, Mazur, Emilee: 9781700920126: Amazon.com: BooksTheir book website www.EmileetheStoryofaGirl.comEllen Bennett is an advocate, speaker, retired educator, and director of KMB for Answers which is a non-profit foundation providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. She is a community advisory board member of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders, and also a member of the Academy for Eating Disorders-Expert by Experience.For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.kmbforanswers.com Email: kmbforanswers1@gmail.com.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Jason Wood turned his battle with orthorexia into a mission to break the stigma around men’s mental health by publishing his memoir Starving for Survival. He is proud to serve on the board for Running in Silence, Michigan Eating Disorder Alliance, and SoulPaws Recovery Project. Jason is also the Director of Community Engagement at ANAD and facilitates the organization’s new men’s peer support group. Through speaking engagements, his writing, and his work, Jason strives to start an important conversation that encourages everyone--especially men--to speak up, share their stories, and get the help they deserve. Our Hosts, Linda and John Mazur, and Ellen Bennett, discuss various mental health issues—eating disorders, anxiety, depression, suicide, substance and alcohol use disorders. This team has a combined experience of over thirty-five years in dealing with eating disorders and their co-morbidities. They share their insights on anorexia, grief, advocacy, and the significance of finding support networks. The podcasts feature interviews with mental health experts, authors, and individuals with lived experiences. Linda, John, and Ellen emphasize the need for improved community awareness and the benefits of strong interpersonal connections. Join us as we start the conversations to end the pervasive shame and stigma associated with mental health issues as we strive to improve mental health care and learn to embrace, better understand, and support those who struggle, and those who love them. Let’s help each other pick up the pieces and discover new pathways to healing.Linda and John Mazur advocate locally, nationally, and internationally. They serve as community advisory board members of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders. They attended President Biden's Speech,  Improving Access for Mental Health Care, in 2023. They have spoken at eating disorder conferences, and for community groups regarding the importance of eating disorder and mental health awareness, advocacy, and education. They provide peer support groups for adults and families through their non-profit, The Emilee Connection, as well as connect people to resources. They wish these supports were available for their adult daughter, Emilee, and for them, as her parents. It takes a village of support to help someone through a mental health struggle. They honored their daughter's last wish by writing a memoir with her writings included, so it might bring awareness to the things that need to change, in the hope that no one else would have to suffer as she did.The Mazur’s can be reached at: Linda.John.Mazur@gmail.comTo learn more about their nonprofit visit: www.TheEmileeConnection.comTheir book and audiobook : Emilee - The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia: Mazur, Linda, Mazur, John, Mazur, Emilee: 9781700920126: Amazon.com: BooksTheir book website www.EmileetheStoryofaGirl.comEllen Bennett is an advocate, speaker, retired educator, and director of KMB for Answers which is a non-profit foundation providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. She advocates locally, nationally, and internationally, is a community advisory board member of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders, and a member of the Academy for Eating Disorders-Expert by Experience.For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.kmbforanswers.com Email: kmbforanswers1@gmail.com.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Sally McQuillen, LCSW, CADC, is a psychotherapist in private practice specializing in addiction recovery, grief and trauma healing. An avid reader with a double major in writing and dance criticism in college, she began working in public relations and marketing prior to obtaining her master’s degree in social work. Reaching for Beautiful is Sally’s first book. She and her husband live on the north shore of Chicago where they raised their three children.Sally Stearns McQuillen Facebook@sal.mcq InstagramSally McQuillen, LCSW, CADC LinkedInhttps://substack.com/@salmcqSally McQuillen, LCSW, CADC  www.sallymcquillen.comOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback and Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012X ·         Audiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS ·         Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com   Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Mehek Mohan is a Stanford Graduate School of Business student and the co-founder of Kahani, a personalized recovery platform for individuals navigating eating disorders. Prior to Stanford, Mehek led AI and automation initiatives at Genentech within the Early Clinical Development team. She earned her undergraduate degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from UC Berkeley and has experience in early-stage venture capital. Mehek is passionate about making mental health care tools more accessible by leveraging cutting-edge advances in technology. We will take a deep dive into this recovery platform to learn and understand how technology has the potential to improve outcomes. This platform is new, an 8-week pilot program was launched in April of this year just as we were recording this podcast.  Kahani is a digital recovery companion designed to help individuals navigating eating disorder recovery by providing structured, evidence-based activities in a game-like format.Think Inside Out meets Duolingo meets Farmville!   Email:  mmehek@stanford.edu  Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehekmohan/ Our Hosts:   ·         Linda and John(Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated. Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012X        Audiobook :https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS        Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:   https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com  Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Dr. Wisniewski (she/her) is an internationally recognized leader in eating disorder treatment and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with almost 30 years of clinical, research, and training experience. An Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychological Sciences at Case Western Reserve University, Dr. Wisniewski has taught hundreds of workshops and continuing education seminars around the world and has authored numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and invited book chapters.Dr. Wisniewski has pioneered the use of DBT in the treatment of multi-diagnostic eating disorders (MED) and is a sought-after authority on this empirically founded method of treatment, providing consultation and training to clinics around the globe. She is the co-author of the MED-DBT Treatment Manual, to be published in 2025 with Guilford Press.Dr. Wisniewski has earned some of the highest awards and accreditations in the field. She has been elected Fellow by the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED), where she has served on the Board of Directors and as co-chair of the Borderline Personality Disorder Special Interest Group. In 2013, the AED awarded Dr. Wisniewski the Outstanding Clinician Award to acknowledge her leadership in the field and her commitment to providing the best solutions for those with eating disorders.In 2023, she was recognized as an Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) Champion for her exceptional dedication, influence, and social impact through the promotion of evidence-based psychological interventions. In 2024, Dr. Wisniewski was honored with the Fulbright Specialist Award, through which she served at Comenzar de Nuevo AC, a non-profit eating disorder facility in Monterrey, Mexico.Dr. Wisniewski is the founder and Chief Clinical Officer of the Center for Evidence-Based Treatment (www.cebtohio.com), which offers therapy, training, and consultation in evidence-based approaches to mental health conditions via traditional and teletherapy platforms.Our Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS   Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website: https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com.Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.com.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Julie Fingersh is a writer, freelance journalist, and most recently, the author of Stay: A Story of Family, Love & Other Traumas (Rowman & Littlefield), which was named one of the best memoirs of 2024 by People Magazine and called “Rich, wise, funny, and hard to put down” by NYT bestselling author Anne Lamott.Julie’s personal essays, editorials, and reported stories have appeared in The New York Times, Oprah Magazine, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Huffington Post, and more. Her Substack newsletter, Take my Advice. I’m Not Using It, is a midlife sequel of an award-winning humorist column she wrote in her twenties for Billboard Publications. Julie has two adult children and lives with her husband in Marin County, California and New Haven, Connecticut. Julie FingershWriter, Journalist & AuthorNew York Times | Huffington Post | Oprah MagazineAuthor of: Stay: A Story of Family, Love, & Other Traumas  (Rowman & Littlefield) Named one of People Magazine’s Best Books of 2024 Named one of Zibby Owens’s Top 22 Books of 2024 and Most Anticipated Books of Fall 2024 Substack newsletter: “Take My Advice. I’m Not Using It”  Our Hosts:   ·         Linda and John(Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated. Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012X        Audiobook :https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS        Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:   https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com  Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Jennifer L. Gaudiani, MD, CEDS-C, FAED, is the founder and medical director of the Gaudiani Clinic. Board certified in internal medicine, she completed her undergraduate degree at Harvard Medical School at Boston University School of Medicine, and her internal medicine residency and chief residency at Yale.   Dr. Gaudiani served as the medical director at the ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders prior to founding the Gaudiani Clinic in 2016. The Gaudiani Clinic offers specialized, trauma-informed outpatient medical care to individuals seeking support for eating disorders, undernourishment related to complex medical issues, and weight-inclusive primary care. The Gaudiani Clinic is based in Colorado with a satellite location in North Carolina and is licensed to practice in almost every US state via thoughtful telemedicine. The Gaudiani Clinic also offers international professional consultation and education.   Dr. Gaudiani has lectured nationally and internationally, is widely published in scientific literature as well as on blogs, is a Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders, and is a former member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Eating Disorders and the Academy for Eating Disorders Medical Care Standards Committee. Dr. Gaudiani’s book, Sick Enough: A  Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders has been translated into multiple  languages and is available on Amazon with a second edition to be published in the coming year.Gaudiani Clinic website: https://www.gaudianiclinic.com/Sick Enough Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Sick-Enough-Jennifer-L-Gaudiani/dp/0815382456Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube: @gaudianiclinicOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS   Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website: https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com.Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.com.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Shari Botwin, LCSW, has been counseling survivors in recovery from all types of traumas in her Philadelphia based private practice for over twenty-eight years. Her second book, “Thriving After Trauma: Stories of Living and Healing, Rowman & Littlefield,” (Rowman & Littlefield, November 8, 2019) deals with overcoming trauma including physical and sexual abuse, war-related injury, loss due to tragedy or illness and natural disaster. Botwin’s third book, Stolen Childhoods, released worldwide in May 2024.Botwin has been qualified as an expert witness in high profile civil and criminal cases, including a case against R Kelly and another case involving over 100 plaintiffs against former pediatrician, Stuart Copperman. In January, Botwin was a featured panelist on a CLE panel about trauma-informed care for the Montgomery Bar Association, in Pennsylvania. Botwin has conducted Keynote presentations for CE credits for Advanced Recovery Systems, Stockton University, Rutgers University, Monte Nido Eating Disorders Center, International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Organization, Hofstra University, and Bay Path University. Botwin has given expert on-air commentary on breaking stories related to trauma and abuse.She also is a regular guest contributor on the Law & Crime Network. NBC Nightly News , NBC News Now, Good Morning America, CBS This Morning NBC News Now with Dr. John Torres, Merit Street, Law & Crime, ABC News, CBS News, MSNBC Live, CTV News, CP-24 News, CNN, Time Magazine, Rolling Stone Magazine, Parade Magazine, The Daily Beast,  Parents Magazine, US Weekly, Newsy, Sports Illustrated, Prevention Magazine, The New York Times, Rolling Stone Magazine, Bored Panda, Parade Magazine, Parents Magazine, Newsbreak,  The Associated Press, Philadelphia Magazine and Radio Europe. Shari Botwin, LCSW (www.sharibotwin.com),For Speaking Engagements: Shari Botwin | Speaking Fee | Booking AgentAmazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/author/stolenchildhoodsStolen Childhoods here: https://www.amazon.com/Stolen-Childhoods-Thriving-After-Abuse/dp/1538183625/Audiobook with Tantor Media: https://www.amazon.com/Stolen-Childhoods-Thriving-After-Abuse/dp/B0D4RFX67B/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shari-botwin-901172a Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/warriorbotwin7/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharilcsw/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/shari_botwinOur Hosts:      Linda and John(Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012X      Audiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS       Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com  Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Today, our hosts Linda Mazur, Jack Mazur, and Ellen Bennett will provide valuable insights on mental health and eating disorders derived from their experience conducting 40 podcast interviews with experts and individuals with lived experience on "Once Shattered: Picking Up the Pieces."Additionally, they will share their personal journeys and discuss the significant initiatives of their non-profits, The Emilee Connection and KMB for Answers, founded in memory of their daughters.They have transformed personal loss into a purposeful mission that offers education, compassion, support and hope. Through their conversation, we will gain an understanding of the unique contributions of both non-profit organizations, fostering solace, inspiration, healing, and a sense of community.KMB for Answers and The Emilee Connection sponsor these podcasts.https://theemileeconnection.com/https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012Xhttps://www.kmbforanswers.com/Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Jennifer Collins, author, is a retired professor and physical therapist whose professionalcareer spanned forty years. She held many titles during those years, but “Mom” was theone that brought her the most joy; her close-knit family was the center of her universe.Her debut novel, Comfort in the Wings, emerged from Jennifer’s devastatingexperiences with the loss of several immediate family members, including two of herthree children. Tragedy in her life brought an understanding that seemingly oppositefeelings - joy and profound sadness or gratitude and anger – can exist at the very samemoment. Striving to articulate those emotions compelled her to bring a seldom heardvoice into fiction. Supporting loved ones through chronic illness, substance use, mentalhealth struggles and sudden loss, Jennifer was struck by the toll that stigma andjudgement take on people who are grieving. Her books delve into meaningfulconversations about these issues without preaching or politicizing highly personalissues.Encouraged by readers’ response, Jennifer wrote two more books, creating the LoveThat Does Not Die Trilogy. Jennifer enjoys writing about the quest for joy and gratitudeafter grief, especially celebrating signs in nature from lost loved ones or finding healingnear water. Most recently, the MartinArts Council recognized her as their 2023 LiteraryArts Award Winner. She also considers herself an advocate for compassion andkindness, and volunteers at a hospice home.When not writing, Jennifer feels blessed to run a family business alongside her eldest son. For more information about the books goto: www.wordsinthewingspress.comOur Hosts:Linda and John(Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.com  Linda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012X      Audiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDS      Linda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.com  Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Rachel Presskreischer is a postdoctoral research fellow in the Psychiatric Epidemiology Training Program in the Department of Epidemiology at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health. She is a mental health policy and services researcher with primary interests in leveraging health and social policies to improve outcomes for people with mental illness, health insurance coverage and design, and access to treatment for people with eating disorders.Her work is informed by both her academic training and her prior experience as a social work intern at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and employee of the National Eating Disorders Association. Rachel completed her PhD in health and public policy at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, MSSW in social policy from Columbia University, and BA in individualized study from New York University. Rachel is a member of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED),serving on the research practice committee from 2018 to this year and as co-chair from 2021-2024. In July Rachel will start a new position as a Research Assistant Professor in the department of Psychiatry (in the Suicide Prevention Institute) at UNC Chapel Hill. Our Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders, their family members, and communities. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Dr. Anita Federici is a Clinical Psychologist and the Owner of The Centre for Psychology and Emotion Regulation. She serves an Adjunct Faculty position at York University and is a distinguished Fellow of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). From 2019 - 2022, Anita served as the elected Co-Chair for the Suicide and DBT Special Interest Group (SIG) for the AED and currently sits on the SIG Oversight Committee.Anita has had a considerable impact on the field through her leadership, advocacy work, and expertise. To date, she has provided more than 375 lectures, workshops, and invited talks on eating disorders, MED-DBT, compassionate care for complex needs, and developing differential care pathways that integrate biotemperament-based approaches, experts-by-experience, and ethical care. She has developed a robust training program, a wide network of allied health professionals, and a treatment centre in an underserved and rural region of Ontario. Her passion for inspiring and invigorating hope for clients and clinicians is at the heart of her work.Known for her engaging and authentic style of training, Anita has become a highly sought-after consultant. She works extensively with hospitals and community organizations nationally and internationally offering team training, implementation support, and program development with a special focus on creating differential care pathways for clients who do not respond to traditional treatment approaches. Her work has been presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals and invited book chapters.Anita Federici, Ph.D C.Psych (she/her)Fellow, Academy for Eating Disorders(FAED)Owner, Clinical DirectorThe Centre for Psychology and Emotion RegulationAdjunct Faculty, Graduate Studies, York UniversityOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders, their family members, and communities. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook: https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Lexi Matthesen is originally from Atlanta and was a professional ballet dancer for 9 years in two different professional ballet companies. She has been teaching yoga since 2015 and taught hip hop dance for 5 years. She is 200 hours certified and has Eating Disorder Informed Yoga certification. Lexi has led yoga therapy groups in eating disorder treatment centers at the residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient levels of care with adults and teens since 2021 and is excited to bring her practice to the eating disorder outpatient community virtually through Living Life Yoga. She is currently a recovery coach and yoga instructor at an eating disorder treatment center. Lexi graduated summa cum laude with a BA in psychology and a minor in counseling and applied psychological science. She is currently in graduate school in St. Louis pursuing a Master of Arts degree in clinical mental health counseling and is working towards becoming a therapist specializing in eating disorders. Her life passion is to make a difference in the treatment of eating disorders. To reach Lexi and learn more about Living Life Yoga check out:https://www.livinglifeyoga.com... Email:lexico.llc21@gmail.com Our Hosts: Linda and John Mazur, and Ellen BennettLinda and John are the founders of https://theemileeconnection.co..., a nonprofit that raises awareness and educates about the serious nature of eating disorders, in addition, their nonprofit provides peer support groups, education, and social activities for adults with eating disorders and their families/loved ones. They are community advisory board members of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders.Their book, Emilee-The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, has touched individuals and families that have experienced eating disorders, substance and alcohol use issues, and numerous other mental health conditions. The Mazurs can be reached at:mailto:Linda.John.Mazur@gmail.comTo learn more about their nonprofit visit:  https://theemileeconnection.co... Their Book, Kindle, Audiobook : https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-...https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-... Their book website http://www.emileethestoryofagi... Ellen Bennett is an advocate, speaker, retired educator, and director of KMB for Answers which is a non-profit foundation providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. She is a community advisory board member of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders. She is also a member of the Academy for Eating Disorders-Expert by Experience.For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: http://www.kmbforanswers.com/ Email Ellen at: mailto:kmbforanswers1@gmail.com.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

With lived experience in bulimia nervosa and BED (binge eating disorder), Makailah Dowell recovered while facing many treatment accessibility barriers and, through that journey, discovered a passion for pursuing healthcare equity. Makailah graduated from Johnson & Wales University with a bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis on microbiology research and continues her work with Equip as a Lead Peer Mentor. She is dedicated to highlighting the BIPOC experience in the healthcare community, disability advocacy, and providing affordable & accessible care for all.ANAD: https://anad.org/Equip Health: https://equip.health/BEAM: https://beam.community/Health At Every Size, Poodle Science: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H89QQfXtc-kRock Recovery: https://www.rockrecoveryed.org/?gad_source=1Our Hosts: Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded The Emilee Connection Inc. a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in March of 2022, in memory of their daughter, Emilee Mazur, which provides peer support and social connection for adults with eating disorders and their family members, in addition to education about eating disorders for schools and communities.  For more information or to contact them go to:www.TheEmileeConnection.com or email: Linda.John.Mazur@gmail.comTheir Book: Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, was written to honor their daughter’s wish to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback, Audiobook, and Kindle versions are available on Amazon.www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://EmileetheStoryofaGirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comHost: Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources.For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn go to: Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Craig Bullock (Isha Das) is an accomplished teacher, writer, lecturer, practicing psychotherapist, and spiritual director of The Assisi Institute in Rochester, New York.A former pastoral administrator at the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Rochester, Isha Das earned graduate degrees in Religious Studies from the University of Notre Dame and Clinical Psychology from the University of Duquesne. His education includes extensive study in psychology, spirituality, mysticism, world religions, and yoga. He counts Richard Rohr among his life-long friends and mentors. Isha Das was made a minister and official Kriya Yoga teacher by Roy Eugene Davis, a direct disciple of Paramahansa Yogananda. His latest book is Open Wider the Door: The Integration of Kriya Yoga And Mystical Christianity.assisi-institute.orgOpen Wider the Door: The Intersection of Kriya Yoga and Mystical Christianity: Bullock, Craig: 9781986821414: Amazon.com: BooksExtravagant Love: Reflections of a Catholic Yogi: Bullock, Craig: 9781493520121: Amazon.com:BooksLiving Grace: A Daily Companion for Meditation and Contemplation: Bullock, Mr Craig: 9781539769774: Amazon.com: BooksOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Tim Mattice is a father of three and husband to his wife Trish. He is the owner and operator of TPM Tile and Marble, specializing in kitchen and bathroom tile installation. Tim is a 1980 graduate of East High School and also a Monroe Community College alumnus. An avid golfer and bowler, he recently acquired his motorcycle license and enjoys “Wind Therapy” whenever the weather allows. Tim is an active member of AA and co-host of the Joe Brucato show and Roc Voices with Tamara MacDuff on Sundays.Our Guest:The Joe Brucato Show - Rochester Free RadioROC Voices - Rochester Free RadioOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Seema Khaneja graduated from the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City and completed her pediatrics residency at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. During medical school and after residency, she studied various complementary healing modalities including Ayurvedic nutrition, mind-body medicine, yoga, and meditation.For ten years, Seema practiced holistic medicine, caring for children and adults, with a focus on chronic physical and mental health challenges. She facilitated numerous classes in meditation, stress management and holistic medicine for medical students at the University of Rochester Medical School as well as the local lay community in Rochester, New York, where she resides.She is also a Clinical Instructor at the University of Rochester’s Department of Pediatrics.Seema developed Coaching for Inner Peace to support clients facing mental and physical health challenges to connect to their inner spiritual resources in a deeply transformative and immensely practical way. She created Shanti Academy, an online learning portal offering courses for students seeking a pragmatic and concrete way to experience inner peace.For more information about Seema and Coaching for Inner Peace, visit coachingforinnerpeace.comSeema is also the author of Physician, Heal Thyself: A Doctor’s Journey from Medicine to Miracles available on Amazon.Our Guest:Coaching For Inner Peace – Dr. Seema KhanejaPhysician, Heal Thyself: A Doctor's Journey from Medicine to Miracles: Khaneja MD, Seema: 9781734332001: Amazon.com: Books Our Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comThe Sunday Read: ‘The Unthinkable Mental Health Crisis That Shook a New England College’ - The New York Times (nytimes.com)Ellen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Brooke is a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor, who has grown up and lived in the Finger Lakes region her whole life. She has recently delved into neurodiversity after finding out her own neurodivergence in the fall of 2022. As she was navigating what it meant for her, she expanded her practice to specialize in neurodivergent couples and trauma therapy.This is an expanding and needed space. Brooke is on a mission to normalize it for others and herself after a lifetime of trying to keep it all together! Brooke is passionate about helping others unmask and understand their unique needs therapeutically as individuals and couples. She has come to realize that oftentimes, many of the traditional or "neurotypical" therapies and theories often just "don't work" for out of the box thinkers, empaths, and creatives. Sadly, due to many stigmas and stereotypes of the traditional way of treating mental health, there are just too many gaps in care and knowledge. Brooke is working to bridge that gap for others who may be trying to cope with some conditions like ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, TBI, Dyslexia, and more to live empowered lives.Brooke has a private practice, is a provider for Golisano’s Behavioral Health, a Neurodivergent Trainer and advocate with a passion for engaging the community to broaden our understanding of neurotypical so that everyone has access to compassionate care.Instagram: @theneurospicy_therapistEmail: Contact@brookewardlmft.comhttps://www.brookewardlmft.com/Brooke Ward LMFT | Marriage & Family Therapist | 1681 Empire Blvd, Webster, NY, USAOur Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.theemileeconnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website:  https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Robyn Shumer: Communication Aficionado, Storyteller, Advocate—Leading Us to ActionRobyn Shumer is a dynamic force in the world of change management and communication. She brings a unique blend of expertise to her endeavors, finds the bright spots amidst disorder and can make an audience laugh and cry but most importantly, lead them to action. A certified yoga teacher and ICF trained coach, Robyn is not only adept at driving organizational change but also in empowering individuals. She is passionate about amplifying people and helping organizations communicate effectively across diverse audiences. Robyn's creativity knows no bounds. A storyteller at heart, she excels in facilitating dialogue, workshops, and brainstorming sessions. Her ability to teach people how to tell their stories stems from the belief that nobody should be ashamed to share the stories that shape them. She teaches the craft enabling others to share their personal and business stories successfully and in an engaging way. “Preparing for and delivering a TED talk has been more impactful in my overall well-being, than all of the hours of therapy I’ve had,” she says. Robyn is the author of the book "Bones," a compelling narrative, “hero’s journey,” that explores her life with an eating disorder, and successful executive and inspirational leader. Represented by Leslie Meredith at Dystel, Goderich & Bourret, the book is in search of finding a home with the right publisher. A true advocate for authentic communication, Robyn Shumer is on a mission to inspire others to embrace and share the stories that make them who they are.https://www.robynshumer.com/Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com

Laura (she/her) is the founder of MindfulMatters585, LLC, offering mindful education, counseling and coaching for anyone looking to find balance, focus and peace in their lives. Working as an educator for many years, Laura became interested in how life can inherently create stress and anxiety, leading to burnout and chronic health challenges.She has counseled, coached and advised thousands, integrating a framework of mindful wellness, empathy, and support. Laura has led introductory and advanced mindful meditation classes and workshops and has been featured as a guest speaker or panelist for a wide variety of organizations. Mindful Matters offers classes, workshops and guided meditation both locally and internationally. Every program emphasizes a mindful approach through insight, practice, and community to help people thrive, rather than survive. Laura M. Gavigan, MS MindfulMatters585, LLC Ph: 585-430-5674Email: MindfulMatters585@gmail.comFB: MindfulMatters585Insta: @MindfulMatters585LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-m-gavigan-36934b3/ Our Hosts:Linda and John (Jack) Mazur founded a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in 2022 in memory of their daughter, Emilee which provides peer support, social connection, resources and education for adults with eating disorders and for their family members. For more information or to contact them go to: www.TheEmileeConnection.comLinda and John (Jack) Mazur wrote, Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia, to honor their daughter’s wish, to raise awareness, evoke compassion, and foster change in how eating disorders are viewed and treated.Paperback: and Kindle:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/170092012XAudiobook:https://www.amazon.com/Emilee-Story-Family-Hijacked-Anorexia/dp/B08R6LRPDSLinda and Jack can also be reached through the book website: https://emileethestoryofagirl.com or at Linda.john.mazur@gmail.comEllen Bennett is the director of KMB for Answers, a non-profit charity providing educational and financial support for mental health professionals as well as assistance for families in search of resources. For more information about Ellen Bennett and the foundation founded in memory of her daughter Katlyn, go to: www.Kmbforanswers.comRecorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production Studios, Rochester, NY  rocvox.com