Life Is A Classroom Podcast

Overcoming Addiction and Abuse

Special Guest Azadeh Atzberger
 
In this powerful episode, the second half of this interview with Dr. Damian, Sam and Azadeh who shares her transformative journey from addiction and abuse to becoming a resilient and confident individual. Azadeh recounts her battle with meth addiction and her tumultuous relationship with an abuser. She courageously took the first steps towards recovery by checking herself into a detox center, where she found solace in a supportive community. Her story highlights the importance of a strong, sober network and the unwavering presence of faith in her journey to sobriety.
Dr. N, a counselor with decades of experience, delves into the nuances of overcoming addiction and abuse. They discuss the crucial role of intentional, purpose-filled decisions in achieving lasting change. Azadeh emphasizes that while support systems are vital, the desire to change must come from within. She vividly describes her turning point—an act of violence by her boyfriend—that led her to realize the destructive path she was on.
The conversation shifts to the dynamics of abuse, focusing on the manipulative tactics used by abusers. Dr. N and Sam explore the insecurities and control issues that drive abusers to inflict harm. Azadeh offers practical advice for setting boundaries and creating a safe environment for oneself, especially when dealing with verbal and emotional abuse. She underscores the importance of finding support and maintaining mental clarity to resist an abuser's attempts to manipulate.
Azadeh also discusses the 'drama triangle' concept, which helps individuals recognize and break free from the victim-rescuer-perpetrator cycle in abusive relationships. She stresses the significance of non-reactivity to deprive abusers of the satisfaction they derive from causing distress.
The episode concludes with a conversation about recognizing and avoiding narcissistic relationships. Azadeh provides insightful tips on identifying red flags, such as the urgency and intensity often exhibited by narcissists early in relationships. Sam and Dr. N reflect on the nature of love, emphasizing that genuine love develops over time, unlike the infatuation often mistaken for love in the initial stages of a relationship.
Azadeh's journey from addiction and abuse to becoming a strong, confident individual serves as an inspiration for anyone struggling with similar challenges. Her wisdom and practical advice offer hope and guidance for those seeking to break free from the cycle of abuse and addiction.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of a supportive, sober community in overcoming addiction.
Intentional and purposeful decisions are crucial for lasting change.
Recognizing and setting boundaries to protect oneself from abuse.
The 'drama triangle' concept as a tool for understanding and escaping abusive dynamics.
Identifying red flags to avoid narcissistic relationships.
Genuine love takes time to develop and is not based on immediate infatuation.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.

Breaking Free: Overcoming Narcissistic Relationships

Special Guest Azadeh Atzberger
 
In this insightful episode of the LIAC Podcast, hosts Dr. Damian and Sam welcome Azadeh Atzberger, a transformational coach, Christian counselor, couples counselor, author, and speaker. Azadeh shares her remarkable journey, from being born in Tehran, Iran in 1971 and fleeing the Iranian Revolution with her family to the United States, highlighting the drastic cultural changes they experienced.
Azadeh discusses her Iranian heritage, mentioning her fluency in Farsi despite not being able to read or write it, and reflects on her childhood memories, including cultural observations and traditional Persian foods. She describes her evolution in dietary habits, from Persian comfort foods to exploring vegetarian and vegan options, and reveals her current favorite dish, lasagna.
The conversation shifts to Azadeh's personal experiences with narcissistic relationships, particularly growing up in a family with narcissistic tendencies. She explains the concept of trauma bonds, comparing it to Stockholm syndrome, where the abused person develops an unhealthy dependency on their abuser. Azadeh emphasizes the importance of breaking the trauma bond from the original source to prevent repeating unhealthy relationship patterns.
Azadeh also shares her journey to sobriety, highlighting how getting sober from drugs and alcohol was a crucial step in her healing process. She explains how sobriety allowed her to address deeper issues and trauma bonds rooted in her childhood, offering valuable insights into managing and understanding Stockholm syndrome, especially in the context of narcissistic parental relationships.
Dr. Damian and Sam mention an upcoming live event with Michelle Rios, a previous guest on the podcast, and Azadeh hints at future projects, including a book launch. The episode is filled with engaging discussions on healthy boundaries, narcissistic relationships, and personal growth, providing listeners with practical advice and inspiring stories.
Tune in next week for the second half of this interview.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
 
 

Embracing Authenticity

Special Guest Michelle Rios
 
In the second half of her interview on the "Life is a Classroom" podcast with hosts Dr. Damian Nesser and Sam, Michelle Rios delves deep into her personal journey of self-discovery and transformation. Raised without parental guidance in navigating life's complexities, Michelle became a voracious seeker of personal development wisdom from early influencers like Deepak Chopra and Wayne Dyer. Despite societal and familial pressures urging her towards a conventional career path, Michelle pursued her passion for personal growth, eventually becoming an executive in a PR firm while continuously exploring avenues of spiritual and personal development.
Her life took a significant turn during a trip to Greece, where a profound inner voice compelled her to leave her corporate job and embrace her true calling. This marked a pivotal moment where Michelle fully committed herself to inspiring others to live authentically and courageously.
Throughout the interview, Michelle reflects on the "messy middle" of her life—a period encompassing marriage, motherhood, career challenges, health issues, and the realization of middle age. She candidly discusses the challenges faced by high achievers, emphasizing that external success often masks internal struggles that require healing and introspection.
A central theme in Michelle's journey is the power of solitude and self-reflection. She encourages listeners to spend time alone, listening to their inner voice—a practice that has been transformative in her own life and essential for maintaining balance amidst multiple roles.
Michelle's message resonates with authenticity and a deep understanding of human resilience and growth. As the interview concludes, she shares her upcoming projects, including her book "The Power of Authenticity," aimed at guiding others towards unlocking their potential and living fulfilling lives.
Listeners are invited to connect with Michelle through her website and social media channels, as well as to explore her podcast, "Live Your Extraordinary Life," for further insights and inspiration.
Overall, Michelle Rios's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of personal growth and authenticity, leaving listeners inspired to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and purposeful living.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
For more episodes and updates, visit our LIAC Podcast website and follow us on social media platforms. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from Adam's powerful story and insights.
 
 

From Pressure to Purpose

Special Guest Michelle Rios
 
Dr. Damian Nesser and Sam are joined by Michelle Rios, a remarkable figure in personal development and podcasting. Michelle reflects on her journey from a challenging upbringing in Maine to becoming a top coach and upcoming author.
Michelle fondly recalls her childhood amidst the processed foods of the 70s, juxtaposed with the wholesome vegetables from their family garden. Born to young parents with a fierce work ethic, she discusses the pressures of excelling academically against a backdrop where "failure is not an option."
Her early successes, including scholarships and international experiences, masked a deeper disconnect from herself. Michelle candidly shares her quarter-life crisis, a period of intense introspection triggered by years of relentless achievement and societal pressures.
The turning point in Michelle’s narrative unfolds during a bus ride through Georgetown, where a compassionate driver’s words nudged her towards seeking help. This moment marked the beginning of her journey towards self-discovery and prioritizing mental health.
Join us for the second half as Michelle delves deeper into her coaching philosophy, the power of vulnerability, and her insights on navigating personal reinvention amidst societal expectations.
Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration from Michelle Rios on "Life is a Classroom," where every story illuminates the path to personal growth and resilience.
Key Themes:
Childhood in Maine: Navigating processed foods and homegrown vegetables.
Early pressures and achievements: Excelling academically amidst familial and societal expectations.
Quarter-life crisis: Reflecting on anxiety and depression in a high-achieving environment.
Turning point: Finding solace and guidance during a transformative bus ride through Georgetown.
Personal transformation: From societal pressures to pursuing authentic personal and professional fulfillment.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
For more episodes and updates, visit our LIAC Podcast website and follow us on social media platforms. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from Adam's powerful story and insights.
 

Mastering Money Mindsets: From Monopoly to Real Life

Special Guest Adam Carroll
 
In the second half of this insightful interview, Dr. Damian Nesser and Sam continue their conversation with guest Adam Carroll, diving deeper into practical financial strategies and life lessons. Adam discusses how applying financial principles can change lives, regardless of one's family or marital status. He emphasizes the importance of money consciousness, especially when managing personal finances independently.
Adam introduces the "Shred Method," a unique cashflow tool designed to efficiently manage income and eliminate debts like student loans and mortgages within a remarkably short timeframe. He shares success stories where individuals drastically transformed their financial situations by implementing this method, highlighting its effectiveness in achieving financial freedom.
The conversation then shifts to Adam's impactful documentary film, "Broke, Busted, and Disgusted: The College Debt Crisis," which sheds light on the alarming prevalence and consequences of student loan debt among young adults. Adam shares his motivation behind creating the documentary and underscores the importance of financial literacy, urging young people to make informed decisions about their education and finances.
The discussion deepens as they explore the psychological aspects of money management, touching upon emotional attachments and societal influences that shape spending behaviors. Adam draws parallels between these insights and his renowned concept presented in the YouTube video, "When Money Isn't Real," which challenges conventional views on financial decision-making using a unique Monopoly game experiment with real cash.
Wrapping up, Adam encourages listeners to visit his website and engage with his resources, including books, podcasts, and the Shred Method, offering practical steps for achieving financial independence and security. He invites those interested to connect on social media for further insights and discussions.
Key Takeaways:
Applying financial principles regardless of marital or family status.
The effectiveness of the Shred Method in eliminating debt and achieving financial freedom.
Insights from the documentary "Broke, Busted, and Disgusted" on the college debt crisis.
Psychological influences on spending behaviors and the concept of money abstraction.
Adam's practical resources and tools for financial education and transformation
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
For more episodes and updates, visit our LIAC Podcast website and follow us on social media platforms. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from Adam's powerful story and insights.
 

Building a Bigger Life: Financial Wisdom and Personal Growth

Special Guest Adam Carroll
 
In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Damian Nesser and Sam interview Adam Carroll, a financial educator and advocate for building a bigger life through wise money management and personal growth. Adam shares his upbringing in Iowa, with a brief stint in California, highlighting his family’s culinary influences and his own journey into the finance world.
Raised in a small family, Adam's childhood was enriched by his mother's cooking and his father's late passion for baking. Despite a modest upbringing, Adam developed a keen interest in entrepreneurship and finance from a young age, inspired by his father’s advice on investing in mutual funds and saving wisely.
After graduating from college burdened by significant debt, Adam’s life took a turn when a pivotal relationship prompted him to reassess his financial habits. Committing to living on one income, he and his partner aggressively paid off their debts, sparking Adam’s passion for teaching others about financial independence and the principles of living below one’s means.
Adam’s journey led him to develop business retreats, inspired by his colleague Molly Rose, to create transformative experiences for participants. These retreats, held in scenic locations like Sedona and Destin, emphasized deep connections and personal growth, mirroring Adam’s belief in the power of shared experiences to catalyze change.
Discussing his book, "The Build a Bigger Life Manifesto," Adam distilled insights from his podcast interviews into nine core principles. These principles encourage readers to architect their lives around strong values, ambitious visions, and the habit of asking profound questions. Adam’s work aims to empower individuals to design lives aligned with their aspirations, fostering a mindset of continuous growth and personal fulfillment.
Adam concludes with insights on life as a classroom, emphasizing the importance of reflection and debriefing to extract lessons and drive personal development. His philosophy underscores the value of quality over quantity, whether in relationships, personal finance, or learning experiences.
Listeners are left inspired by Adam’s journey and insights, eager to apply his teachings to their own lives. The episode promises more in-depth discussions on financial wellness and strategies for building a fulfilling life in subsequent episodes, inviting listeners to join the conversation on thriving in life’s classroom.
Tune in next week for the second half of this interview.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
For more episodes and updates, visit our LIAC Podcast website and follow us on social media platforms. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends and family who might benefit from Adam's powerful story and insights.
 
 

Resilience Redefined

Special Guest Diane Gottlieb
Welcome back to the second part of our interview with Diane, where we delve deeper into the inspiring stories that make up her latest project. Diane's passion for highlighting resilience and growth shines through as she discusses the diverse narratives featured in her work. From individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration to others finding new purpose in their 50s and beyond, each story resonates with a common theme: overcoming challenges to discover newfound purpose and joy.
Diane shares her personal journey and how it led her to create "Women Paws," a blog celebrating women over 50 who are reinventing themselves. This platform serves as a beacon for those navigating life's transitions, encouraging them to explore new opportunities and embrace their freedom with renewed vigor.
In addition to her blog, Diane is the driving force behind "Emerge Literacy Journal," a publication dedicated to showcasing emerging voices in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. By providing a platform for writers of all backgrounds and experiences, Diane fosters a community where creativity thrives and new perspectives are celebrated.
Furthermore, Diane discusses the importance of addressing mental health challenges through storytelling, a cornerstone of "Esperanza's Corner" in the journal. By sharing these narratives, she hopes to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental wellness in diverse cultural contexts.
Throughout the interview, Diane's warmth and dedication to her community shine brightly. Her commitment to education and empowerment spans decades, making a profound impact on the lives she touches. As she continues to inspire through her writing and advocacy, Diane invites listeners to join her journey of learning, dreaming, achieving, and giving back in their own "classrooms of life."
For more insights and to connect with Diane and her impactful projects, visit DianeGottlieb.com and explore her latest book "Awakenings" available through ELJ Editions.  Join us in celebrating the power of resilience and growth in this transformative episode. 
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.

Embracing Resilience and Creativity

Special Guest Diane Gottlieb
Welcome to "Life is a Classroom," where every episode offers profound insights and stories that inspire growth and learning. In this episode, hosts Dr. Damian Nesser and co-host Sam are joined by the remarkable Diane Gottlieb, an author whose journey embodies resilience, creativity, and a deep passion for storytelling.
Diane begins by sharing her upbringing in Queens, New York, a melting pot of cultures that influenced her culinary preferences and ignited her love for writing. Raised in an immigrant family with Jewish and German roots, Diane humorously recalls her mother's unexpected talent for Italian cooking, which added a unique flavor to their kitchen.
Transitioning to Diane's journey as an author, she reveals how a late start in pursuing her passion for writing culminated in earning her MFA in Creative Nonfiction from Antioch University at the age of 56. Her perspective on education and personal growth underscores the value of life experiences and maturity in shaping one's creative endeavors.
Beyond writing, Diane discusses her commitment to giving back, guided by her Christian faith. She highlights her foundation's initiatives, including partnerships with organizations like Toys for Tots, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact in communities.
The conversation shifts to Diane's latest project, "Awakenings: Stories of Bodies and Consciousness," a collaborative anthology featuring 49 authors. This anthology explores themes of body image and consciousness, aiming to empower readers to embrace their identities and celebrate diversity.
Throughout the episode, Diane's warmth and authenticity resonate as she shares insights on connecting with audiences through storytelling and public speaking. Her philosophy on engaging listeners reflects her mother's approach to cooking - infused with love and a desire to foster meaningful connections.
As the episode concludes, Diane leaves listeners with a powerful message: to approach life's challenges as opportunities for personal and collective growth. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of embracing one's true self.
Join us next time on "Life is a Classroom" as we continue to explore the stories and lessons that shape our lives, featuring inspiring individuals like Diane Gottlieb.
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
Tune in next week for the second part of this interview.
Connect with Diane eljeditions.com
 

Transforming Lives Through Self-Love and Genuine Connection

Special Guest Tom Lyman
In the second part of our enlightening interview with Tom, he delves deep into his journey of self-love and the transformative power of connection. Tom begins by sharing his personal struggles, revealing that for many years, he didn't love himself. This lack of self-love manifested in various areas of his life, including his discipline, finances, and relationships. Tom candidly recounts his frustrations with not waking up on time, neglecting his physical health, and failing to maintain financial stability. His marriage also suffered during this period of self-neglect. However, Tom's journey through various self-help programs, including 12-step and rehab, helped him reach a place of self-acceptance. He now embraces his identity fully, recognizing that loving himself was crucial to loving others genuinely.
 
Tom emphasizes that true connection is essential for personal and communal well-being. He argues that connections driven by a desire to see others succeed lead to more meaningful and fruitful relationships. Tom illustrates this point with a story about helping a woman find local resources for her struggling son, demonstrating the impact of being a connector in the community. He contrasts genuine connection with superficial networking, stressing that the latter often feels transactional and lacks depth. According to Tom, real connection is about caring for each other's success and well-being, which can naturally lead to successful business relationships later on.
 
Reflecting on the isolating effects of COVID-19, Tom stresses the dangers of isolation on mental health and addiction. He underscores the importance of community and support in overcoming these challenges, noting that isolation exacerbates mental health issues and addictions, while connection can lead to recovery and improvement. This understanding has driven Tom to focus on creating opportunities for genuine connection through the Joy Hour Movement. The movement, which has organized over 75 events attracting more than 10,000 people, emphasizes connection and community. These events are designed to bring people together without the distraction of technology or the influence of alcohol, fostering a space where people can engage in meaningful interactions.
 
Tom shares an exciting development within the Joy Hour Movement: the creation of a mascot named Joyfoot. This mascot is aimed at bringing joy and connection to the community, especially children. Joyfoot will make appearances at various locations, encouraging families to participate in community events and fostering a sense of togetherness. Through these efforts, the Joy Hour Movement aims to combat the increasing trend of isolation and promote a culture of connection and support.
 
In the conversation, Tom also highlights the value of learning from people of all ages. He shares how his own children and younger nephew continuously offer fresh perspectives and insights, reminding listeners that wisdom and valuable lessons can come from anyone, regardless of age. This episode also explores the concept of mentorship, with Tom discussing the significant impact it can have on young people. He uses the example of Sam, who is preparing to enter the police academy, to illustrate how mentorship can guide and inspire the next generation.
 
Tom's reflections on connection and community resonate deeply, emphasizing that genuine relationships are built on mutual care and support. He believes that everyone longs for meaningful, heartfelt conversations and that these connections are essential for personal growth and well-being. As the interview concludes, Tom and the hosts discuss the importance of using technology to foster connections rather than hinder them. Tom encourages listeners to reach out to those in need, particularly during Mental Health Awareness Month, and to use technology to maintain and strengthen relationships.
 
Overall, this episode underscores the transformative power of self-love and genuine connection. Tom's story is a testament to the impact of community and support in overcoming personal struggles and building a meaningful, fulfilling life. Listeners are encouraged to join the Joy Hour Movement, participate in community events, and reach out to others in their lives to foster a culture of connection and support. Through these efforts, we can combat isolation and promote mental well-being, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of genuine, heartfelt connections.
 
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
 

Transforming Pain into Purpose

Special Guest Tom Lyman
The episode begins with a warm reminiscence of their meeting at the Amberley Lagos Unstoppable Summit, highlighting the serendipitous nature of their connection and the vibrant energy of the event. Tom reflects on his humble upbringing in a small trailer, shaped by his parents' resourcefulness in preparing wholesome meals amidst financial challenges. This upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for natural remedies and holistic health practices.
The conversation pivots to a poignant discussion on the pervasive impact of technology on familial relationships and mental health. Sam and Tom lament the distraction of smartphones, which often disconnect people from meaningful face-to-face interactions, urging listeners to engage more fully with the world beyond screens.
Tom candidly shares his personal journey through addiction, detailing his path to sobriety after years of struggle with alcohol, steroids, and cocaine. He emphasizes the importance of community, counseling, and openness in maintaining his sobriety, inspiring hope for those grappling with similar challenges.
The podcast delves into the heart of Tom's mission with the Considerate Group, a nonprofit dedicated to addiction prevention, recovery, and mental health awareness. Tom explains how the Joy Hour initiative, born out of his own journey to sobriety, evolved into a multifaceted support network offering behavioral change programs, outdoor activities, and counseling services.
Throughout the discussion, Tom underscores the profound joy found in selfless service, recounting transformative moments shared with individuals and families through the Considerate Group's initiatives. He emphasizes the therapeutic power of outdoor activities and meaningful conversations in fostering genuine human connection and healing.
As the episode draws to a close, Sam and Tom reflect on the universal relevance of their message across different cultures and communities. They highlight the importance of destigmatizing mental health discussions and promoting a mindset of compassionate service as a pathway to personal fulfillment and collective well-being.
In essence, this episode of "Life is a Classroom" serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the healing potential of community support, and the transformative impact of embracing life's challenges as opportunities for growth and service.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace holistic health practices and natural remedies.
Prioritize meaningful, face-to-face interactions over digital distractions.
Find strength in community and counseling on the path to recovery.
Discover joy through selfless service and outdoor activities.
Destigmatize mental health discussions and promote compassionate support.
Tom's journey from addiction to advocacy exemplifies how personal challenges can inspire profound positive change in both individual lives and communities at large, echoing the podcast's core message that life is indeed a classroom filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and service.
Tune in next week for the 2nd part of this interview
Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/  to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.
Connect with Tom